N-Decanol (Normal Decanol) – Definition & Key Data
Definition
N-Decanol (1-decanol) is a linear, primary fatty alcohol with ten carbon atoms.
It is widely used in surfactants, cosmetics, lubricants, plasticizers, and chemical synthesis.
Chemical Identity
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Name: N-Decanol
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IUPAC Name: Decan-1-ol
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Formula: C₁₀H₂₂O
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Molecular Weight: 158.28 g/mol
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CAS Number: 112-30-1
Physical & Chemical Properties
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Appearance: Colorless, oily liquid or waxy at low temperature
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Odor: Mild, fatty/alcohol-like
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Melting Point: ~6 °C
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Boiling Point: ~232–235 °C
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Density: ~0.83 g/cm³
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Flash Point: ~107 °C
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Solubility:
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Water: Very low
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Solvents: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons
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Viscosity: Moderate, increases at low temperature
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Chemical Class: Primary aliphatic alcohol (C10 fatty alcohol)
Production Methods
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Hydrogenation of decanoic acid or methyl decanoate
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Ziegler process (Ethylene oligomerization → alcohol)
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Fatty acid reduction (natural fats/oils)
Applications & Uses
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Non-ionic surfactant production
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Ethoxylated/propoxylated alcohol surfactants
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Cosmetic formulations (emollient, viscosity agent)
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Lubricants and lubricant additives
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Plasticizer intermediate
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Fragrance and flavor chemical component
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Solvent in chemical processes
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Textile chemical auxiliary
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Detergent and cleaning products
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Agrochemical formulations
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Antifoaming agent component
