1-Octanol: Properties, Uses, and Safety Overview
1-Octanol, also known as caprylic alcohol, is a straight-chain fatty alcohol with the molecular formula C₈H₁₈O. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild, fatty odor. As an important organic compound in the alcohol family, 1-octanol serves many industrial and laboratory functions and is commonly used in the production of esters, surfactants, and fragrances.
Chemical and Physical Properties
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Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₈O
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Molar Mass: 130.23 g/mol
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Boiling Point: ~195°C
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Melting Point: ~−15°C
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Density: 0.83 g/cm³ at 20°C
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Solubility: Insoluble in water, but soluble in most organic solvents like alcohol, ether, and chloroform
1-Octanol is hydrophobic due to its long alkyl chain but has some polarity from the hydroxyl (-OH) group. This amphiphilic nature makes it suitable for applications involving emulsification and solubilization of lipophilic substances.
Production and Sources
1-Octanol can be synthesized by:
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Ziegler Process: This method involves the oligomerization of ethylene followed by oxidation and hydrolysis.
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Natural Sources: It occurs naturally in some plant oils and essential oils, though commercial production is typically synthetic.
Applications
1-Octanol is a versatile compound used across various industries:
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Fragrances and Flavors:
Due to its pleasant aroma, 1-octanol is commonly used as a base or additive in perfumes and food-grade flavorings. -
Plasticizers and Surfactants:
It acts as an intermediate in manufacturing plasticizers, which soften plastics, and in surfactants used in detergents and cleaners. -
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics:
It serves as a solvent and copyright in topical creams, ointments, and drug formulations, especially for transdermal delivery systems. -
Pesticides and Herbicides:
1-Octanol is used as a dispersing agent and solvent in agrochemical formulations. -
Laboratory Use:
It functions as a reference compound in partition coefficient testing (like the octanol-water partition coefficient or log P), useful for studying drug absorption and bioaccumulation.
Health and Safety Considerations
While 1-octanol is generally regarded as having low toxicity, it should still be handled with care:
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Skin and Eye Contact: May cause irritation upon direct exposure. Use protective gloves and eyewear.
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Inhalation: Vapors can be irritating to the respiratory tract in poorly ventilated areas.
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Ingestion: May be harmful if swallowed in large quantities; not intended for consumption unless properly formulated and approved.
In industrial settings, appropriate ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe storage practices are recommended. It should be kept away from open flames and strong oxidizers due to its combustible nature.
Environmental Impact
1-Octanol has a relatively low environmental persistence. However, when released in large amounts, it may affect aquatic life due to its low water solubility and potential for bioaccumulation. Proper waste management and disposal according to regulatory guidelines are essential.
Conclusion
1-Octanol is a widely used fatty alcohol that offers functionality across chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agricultural sectors. Its balanced combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties makes it useful in numerous formulations, while its relatively low toxicity enhances its appeal in consumer and industrial products. Nonetheless, as with all chemicals, responsible handling and environmental care remain crucial for safe and sustainable use.