In the vast landscape of industrial chemicals, certain compounds distinguish themselves through their sheer versatility and broad applicability across multiple sectors. 2-Octanol, known by its CAS number 4128-31-8 and various synonyms like capryl alcohol or methyl hexyl carbinol, is one such indispensable chemical. This C8 secondary alcohol is not merely a chemical compound; it's a critical component enabling advancements in coatings, fragrances, plasticizers, surfactants, and more. For procurement specialists and R&D professionals, understanding its applications and reliable sourcing channels is paramount.

The Multifaceted Roles of 2-Octanol in Industry

2-Octanol’s unique chemical structure and properties lend themselves to a wide array of industrial uses:

  • High-Boiling Solvent: Its low volatility and excellent solvency for resins and oils make it an ideal choice as a high-boiling solvent in the production of coatings, inks, and adhesives. It promotes smooth film formation and provides controlled evaporation rates essential for high-quality finishes.
  • Chemical Intermediate: A primary role is as a precursor for the synthesis of other critical chemicals. It is reacted with phthalic anhydride to create dioctyl phthalate (DOP), a vital plasticizer that imparts flexibility to PVC products. Furthermore, it’s used to produce surfactants through ethoxylation, essential for detergents, personal care items, and industrial cleaning agents.
  • Fragrance and Flavor Component: In the fragrance and flavor industry, 2-Octanol contributes subtle fruity and floral notes, adding depth and character to perfumes, cosmetics, and even food additives. Its presence enhances the sensory appeal of many consumer products.
  • Lubricant Additives and Defoamers: It finds application in the formulation of lubricant additives, such as ZDDP, that improve oil performance. It also acts as an effective defoaming agent in processes ranging from paper manufacturing to cement production.
  • Pharmaceutical Synthesis: In certain complex organic synthesis pathways, 2-Octanol can serve as a building block or reagent for producing pharmaceutical intermediates.

Key Properties Driving its Utility

The utility of 2-Octanol is underpinned by its specific physical and chemical characteristics:

  • Appearance: Colorless, clear liquid.
  • Purity: Typically available with an assay of ≥99.0%.
  • Boiling Point: Approximately 174-181°C, indicating low volatility.
  • Solubility: Miscible with most organic solvents, poorly soluble in water.
  • Safety: Possesses a flash point of around 71°C, making it relatively safer to handle than lower-boiling alcohols.

Strategic Sourcing of 2-Octanol

For businesses looking to buy 2-Octanol, whether for direct use as a solvent or as a chemical intermediate, partnering with a reliable supplier is crucial. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is dedicated to connecting industrial buyers with high-quality chemical products from trusted manufacturers. We understand the importance of consistent purity, competitive pricing, and dependable delivery for applications in coatings, fragrances, and chemical synthesis. By leveraging our expertise, you can efficiently source the 2-Octanol (CAS 4128-31-8) your operations require, ensuring quality and optimizing your supply chain.