Before people started talking about green chemistry, chemists were hunting for flexible and reliable diols for industry. 1,8-Octanediol popped up in research journals as scientists explored new ways to build polymers and fine chemicals during the second half of the 20th century. Its straight-chain, eight-carbon backbone stood out since it doesn’t crowd or kink like branched alternatives. Early efforts to produce ODO used petroleum-based routes, but the search for cleaner processes started picking up steam alongside the push for sustainable chemical production. ODO began taking on a new role as the cosmetics and polymer industries expanded, favoring raw materials with proven utility and a safe profile.
1,8-Octanediol brings an unusual combination to the table. The molecule offers two primary alcohol groups—one on each end of its eight-carbon chain. That gives it real versatility, helping it serve as a building block for specialty polymers, resilient coatings, and high-performance plasticizers. Its substantial carbon chain makes it less volatile than typical short-chain diols, which means it stays put in lots of applications. Suppliers send ODO out as white crystals or flakes. Purity above 99% is standard for industrial supply, cutting down concern about byproducts or contamination in sensitive formulations.
In the lab, ODO looks like a white solid with a melting point just shy of 60°C and a boiling point near 285°C. Its appearance owes a lot to its long alkyl tail—unlike short-chain relatives, it doesn’t draw water from the air easily and rarely grows sticky. ODO dissolves well in polar solvents such as ethanol or acetone, but water solubility drops off compared to 1,6-hexanediol or ethylene glycol. For many, this matters in formulation work: if you need something that can take heat and doesn’t invite water, ODO fits the bill. This material doesn’t have strong odors or flavors, so it’s found a spot in personal care and flavor carrier applications.
Manufacturers provide technical sheets listing molecular weight at 146.23 g/mol and the C8H18O2 formula. Product labels in North America and Europe note the purity—often at least 99%—along with melting and boiling points. Specific gravity sits around 0.97 at 25°C. Handling sheets usually flag the need to avoid strong oxidizers and recommend storage in tightly sealed packaging to prevent contamination. Since ODO can irritate eyes or skin in concentrated form, technical labeling makes room for GHS pictograms and first aid advice. For the pharmaceutical or personal care sectors, documentation usually certifies the material’s compliance with REACH and, when relevant, USP standards.
Producers traditionally rely on the hydrogenation of suberic acid, suberic esters, or related derivatives sourced from petroleum. The process involves catalytic hydrogenation, usually by feeding the suberic material over a nickel catalyst at high temperature and pressure. Some research teams have pivoted toward renewable sources—using biobased feedstocks, such as castor oil or plant-derived intermediates, which shrink the environmental footprint. Efficiency matters in these steps: too much hydrogenation yields lighter diols or alcohols; too little and you get unconverted acids. Post-reaction refining takes care of color, odor, and consistency, preparing the material for demanding industrial users.
ODO’s two reactive hydroxyl groups allow just about every class of condensation and substitution reactions typical for alcohols. In the hands of skilled chemists, ODO links up with diacid chlorides to yield polyesters with long, flexible chains. Formulators use it to make polyurethanes—ODO reacts with isocyanates to form durable networks that hold up under stress. The alcohol groups accept modification by ethers, esters, and even sulfation, which tailors solubility and performance in all kinds of specialty products. Because the carbon backbone doesn’t hydrogenate easily, the molecule remains stable under many reaction conditions.
Regulatory documents and catalogs often call 1,8-Octanediol by other names. Suberic alcohol, Octylene glycol, and 1,8-Dihydroxyoctane show up frequently, especially in patent documents and regulatory filings. Some suppliers, eager for branding, attach product codes like “ODO99” or “OctaDiol” on drum labels. While alternate spellings and names create confusion for supply managers, most established chemical distributors stick with the unambiguous “1,8-Octanediol.”
In my own work handling diols and glycols in the lab, standard precautions go a long way. Gloves and goggles prevent mild but irritating contact reactions—ODO causes redness or itching in some folks if spilled. Ventilation remains crucial, even if ODO rarely produces strong vapors. For shipping, ODO travels without the hazard designations reserved for flammable or highly toxic compounds, which streamlines global logistics. Factories and labs keep it away from strong oxidizers and acids; spills get swept up and diluted in plenty of water. Current GHS labeling includes an exclamation mark for minor hazards, and most companies provide detailed safety training where ODO appears in quantity.
The uses of 1,8-Octanediol stretch across several different sectors. In personal care, its stable structure makes it a go-to for moisturizing creams and lotions. It provides a soft feel and helps balance product viscosity without disagreeable stickiness, earning approval in many skincare lines. Several specialty coatings rely on ODO as a backbone for polymers engineered to withstand UV light and weathering. The plasticizer business turns to ODO for flexible, clear films in industries from packaging to electronics. Formulators use ODO as a solvent for flavor and fragrance concentrates, since it stands up to temperature swings. ODO also fills an important role as a chain extender in high-performance polyurethanes and as a precursor for plastic additives that need both flexibility and nonvolatility.
Research groups have published fresh methods to make 1,8-Octanediol using fermentation or chemoenzymatic steps. These green chemistry routes aim to lower the environmental burden and cut loose from fossil feedstocks. On the application side, scientists have explored using ODO in biodegradable plastics that degrade harmlessly after use, and in medical polymers designed to match the softness of living tissues. A few papers outline ODO’s behavior under high heat and UV, proving its worth for outdoor and automotive polymers. Analytical chemists like myself enjoy exploring new blends with ODO as a co-monomer, pushing to fine-tune polymer flexibility or water resistance.
Safety data suggests a low-toxicity profile for 1,8-Octanediol. Animal studies and repeated patch tests in humans show only mild skin or eye irritation after direct exposure. Acute oral toxicity in rats presents no significant hazard at relevant doses, and the molecule doesn’t build up in living systems. ODO breaks down naturally, unlike legacy plasticizers or diols that hang around in soils. Current research looks at chronic exposures and environmental persistence. Regulatory agencies, including ECHA and the US FDA, approve ODO for cosmetic use, as long as finished products undergo rigorous stabilization and allergy testing. Doctors rarely see allergic responses outside of rare cases in sensitive individuals.
Industries keep a close watch on the move toward sustainable chemicals, and ODO fits that trend. Patents describe fermentation-based routes that could make ODO from plant sugars instead of oil, raising hopes for fully renewable supply lines. Cosmetic chemists look for multifunctional molecules that bring both skin conditioning and preservation, and ODO may take a larger slice of that demand. As more brands chase “clean label” claims and non-irritating alternatives to legacy ingredients, ODO’s role as a safe, effective diol will likely grow. Research on its use in biodegradable polymers points toward both environmental and commercial progress. The steady shift away from petrochemical feedstocks could put ODO and similar diols in the middle of future breakthroughs in sustainable materials.
You don’t stumble across 1,8-Octanediol (ODO) at the supermarket, but many of us use products every day that rely on its unique qualities. With its eight-carbon chain and two hydroxyl groups, ODO plays a crucial part in a variety of industries, from personal care to advanced manufacturing. It has a waxy feel to it and offers a mix of flexibility and stability, which means companies can use it in plenty of ways.
If you look at the ingredients list on some moisturizers and lotions, 1,8-Octanediol often appears because it works as a humectant. This means it helps skin hold on to moisture, which everyone with dry skin can appreciate. I’ve used creams that feel softer and less greasy, and it’s often the combination of ingredients like 1,8-Octanediol that make the difference. On top of that, it has mild antimicrobial effects, so it helps products stay fresh longer, cutting down on preservatives that could cause irritation.
Beyond personal care, manufacturers appreciate ODO because it can link together molecules in polyurethane and polyester production. This isn’t just chemistry talk—it means softer fibers, more flexible plastics, and coatings that stand up to wear. Anyone who’s worn athletic wear that feels soft yet tough has likely brushed against products enhanced with diols like ODO. The durability and comfort we expect from clothes and soft-touch car interiors often rely on thoughtful choices in raw materials, not just marketing claims.
I’ve seen more companies moving away from petroleum-based chemicals, and ODO sometimes comes from renewable sources, making it a part of the push toward greener chemistry. Brands lean into this to show they are paying attention to sustainability. Customers increasingly ask if what they’re buying lines up with their values. ODO gives chemical engineers the flexibility they need while helping move away from old-fashioned, harsh ingredients.
ODO brings a lot to the table, but nothing’s perfect. High production costs and the need for careful sourcing mean companies may search for cheaper or locally available alternatives. Still, the balance between safety, performance, and environmental friendliness keeps it in the game. Regulations in the EU and US expect manufacturers to provide robust safety data, so producers have strong incentives to test and monitor ODO for allergens and long-term effects.
More transparency and research can make it easier to choose the right raw materials, whether you’re mixing up a personal lotion or producing textiles on a large scale. Ingredient lists get longer each year, and savvy shoppers want to know what’s really inside. Brands that invest in clearer labeling and support real-world testing build trust with people who expect both safety and results. Researchers keep searching for ways to make chemicals like ODO from plant sources, not just oil, which could lower environmental impact and cost.
1,8-Octanediol keeps showing up in places where comfort, performance, and sustainability overlap. Whether you care about softer skin, long-lasting fabrics, or greener solutions, it’s worth paying attention to the ingredients that make everyday products work better. Keeping up with new research and pushing for honesty and safety ensures ODO serves people and the planet in the years ahead.
1,8-Octanediol shows up in many skin care ingredient lists these days, showing its staying power as a trusted humectant and antimicrobial booster. The molecule seems simple, but it offers strong moisture retention and backs up preservatives so molds or bacteria don’t take hold in your favorite creams. Many formulators like it because it avoids some of the skin irritation tied to older chemical preservatives. The key question comes down to this: does 1,8-Octanediol cause problems for real skin or not?
Practical safety relies on science, not just marketing copy. Clinical data and regulatory review matter most. In Europe, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) gives stamps of approval to cosmetic ingredients after combing through toxicological studies. Regulators in North America and parts of Asia also look at published science before allowing an ingredient to end up on shelves. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel in the U.S. gave 1,8-Octanediol a green light at concentrations typically used by industry—usually up to 1 percent in leave-on products.
I talk to a few dermatologists and pharmacists in my own circle, and their take is straightforward: 1,8-Octanediol rarely causes allergic reactions or skin sensitivities so long as it stays in recommended limits. Most people never notice anything at all. Compared to other preservatives—parabens or methylisothiazolinone, for example—it rocks a much lower irritation record. Even for people with eczema or rosacea, it seldom stirs up trouble, though patch testing will always catch outlier reactions.
Let’s cut to data. Published peer-reviewed research points out that 1,8-Octanediol shows low dermal toxicity and doesn’t linger or bioaccumulate in the body. Acute and sub-chronic studies in rats show no organ damage or reproductive harm even at doses well above what humans see in daily use. Skin patch testing with human volunteers backs this up—no widespread reports of redness, stinging, or rashes from low concentrations. Most of its rare adverse reactions trace back to mixing with other irritants, not 1,8-Octanediol alone.
The safety net gets even broader knowing that many manufacturers source 1,8-Octanediol from renewable or biobased feedstocks. This reduces risk of unknown impurities slipping into skin care through sloppy manufacturing. That said, ingredient sourcing does shift between companies, so reputable brands with solid in-house or third-party testing come out ahead.
No skin ingredient suits absolutely everyone. Teenagers or adults struggling with very sensitive skin still want to watch for early signs of trouble—redness, itching, or burning mean pause and reassess. Self-professed minimalists like me know that mixing too many new actives together can push sensitive skin over the edge, even if all of them get high safety scores on paper. Personal anecdote: after back-to-back experiments with new serums over a single weekend, my skin rebelled, and while 1,8-Octanediol did not seem to cause this, only slowing down and patch testing helped me figure out which blend sparked the rash.
Labeling transparency goes a long way. Consumers want to see clear concentrations listed and to understand which preservatives or humectants back up a formula. More brands now include directions about combining products or patch testing before slathering on new creams. As someone who likes to dig into ingredient lists, I see value in brands laying out their sourcing, purity standards, and links to supporting data—even if most buyers never click through. Every little bit of plain language info helps shoppers make safe decisions for their own skin story.
Products constantly evolve, and skin never stops surprising us. Brands, dermatologists, and curious consumers benefit from staying plugged into emerging science, so skin care remains both innovative and safe.
Cosmetic products often rely on a mix of proven ingredients to deliver a good user experience. 1,8-Octanediol, a synthetic diol, plays a crucial part in this mix. Its job often covers work as a humectant and mild preservative, helping to keep formulas stable and products fresh. This chemical's inclusion isn’t just about aesthetics; it's part of a commitment to product longevity and safety.
Manufacturers usually keep concentrations low—most often between 0.5% and 2%. Lab data and regulatory filings back this up. In moisturizers, serums, and cleansing gels, you typically see 1,8-Octanediol at around 1%. Rarely does it rise above 2% in mainstream brands. Regulatory frameworks in major markets like the European Union and the US keep a close watch. EU regulations generally permit 1,8-Octanediol up to concentrations of 3%. U.S. product ingredient lists, when examined, sit right in the safe zone set by these authorities.
From the perspective of someone who struggles with skin sensitivity, knowing the numbers isn't enough. Every extra percent added to a formula can increase the risk of irritation. Experience in ingredient sourcing and working alongside chemists teaches the value of erring on the side of safety. Trusted brands test their mixtures to safeguard consumer interests—and they stay transparent about choices. Scientific sources, such as the European Chemicals Agency and Cosmetic Ingredient Review, confirm that irritation and sensitization rarely occur below 3%. The lower levels used tell me manufacturers take this risk seriously.
Today's shoppers aren't just picking up a lotion for its scent. Ingredient lists draw attention and questions land in my inbox whenever a new synthetic name pops up. People want real answers, not marketing spin. If someone reacts to new skincare, one of the first things they ask is about the concentration of every component, including lesser-known ones like 1,8-Octanediol. The sector sees trust as something earned. Full disclosure on concentration—clearly stated on packaging or a website—goes a long way toward building that trust. Brands that downplay their ingredient content run the risk of losing loyal shoppers.
Industry efforts to share more data online should continue. Increased collaboration with dermatologists and real-world user feedback keeps safety at the core of product development. Transparent labeling can bridge the gap between what formulators know and what consumers fear. Where sensitivities do appear, it’s up to both product makers and health professionals to keep information current.
Manufacturers working with ingredient suppliers must monitor purity and check for contaminants. In my time as an industry consultant, I saw that small changes in supply quality could alter product outcomes. Regular batch testing and third-party audits help keep products safe for use and in line with regulations.
A visible trend toward safer, lower-level use of ingredients like 1,8-Octanediol in cosmetics reflects careful attention by brands. Ongoing research and honest labeling bring peace of mind to users. It’s one area where the industry and its customers benefit from shared vigilance, science-based decisions, and open dialogue.
People often overlook ingredients that don’t draw flashy headlines. 1,8-Octanediol usually slips under the radar in personal care and cosmetics, but it deserves a closer look. Scientists classify it as a diol, which means it holds two alcohol groups on different ends of an eight-carbon chain. Chemistry aside, this structure makes 1,8-Octanediol pretty useful on a practical level, especially as a preservative and humectant.
Anyone who has ever found a moldy jar of face cream knows that products spoil without protection. Germs like bacteria, yeast, and fungi love water-based formulas, and they multiply quickly. Preservatives stop this from happening. 1,8-Octanediol has found a role as a preservative booster, making other antimicrobial agents more effective. It pokes holes in microbial cell walls and disrupts their normal function. That kind of action means fewer unwanted bugs in lotions, shampoos, or liquid soaps.
Some people carry sensitivities toward common preservatives, like parabens or formaldehyde releasers. 1,8-Octanediol doesn’t typically raise the same issues and can cut down the amount of harsher agents, offering a milder path toward keeping products safe. It works well in lower concentrations, lessening the overall chemical load. Regulatory agencies in North America and Europe have both reviewed this ingredient, and they set safety limits that carry a good margin for consumer protection. That brings peace of mind to both formulators and end users.
Dryness drives a lot of people toward lotions and serums. Here’s the thing: water evaporates fast from human skin, especially in air-conditioned spaces or after washing. Humectants step in by grabbing onto water and holding it near the skin’s surface. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid often take the spotlight, but 1,8-Octanediol also helps in this area. It draws moisture from the air and holds it on the skin, creating a hydrated layer that delays evaporation. This gentle effect fits both leave-on products and rinse-off cleansers, helping skin feel comfortable rather than sticky.
This ingredient does not clog pores or leave residue, making it user-friendly for people with acne or sensitive skin. In my routine, after using a basic gel cleanser with 1,8-Octanediol, skin does not feel tight. That’s a small thing, but in a world of harsh surfactants and endless actives, ingredients that quietly do their job without fuss deserve appreciation.
Long shelf life and skin comfort sound trivial, but both rank high on my list after years of trying countless products and reading ingredient labels. No one wants to toss out an unopened bottle because it turned bad or developed an odd smell. The industry can support smarter preservation strategies by choosing ingredients such as 1,8-Octanediol more often. Less irritation, fewer recalls, and better user experiences start with considered formulations, not just marketing promises.
Environmental impact matters too. Compared to some old-school preservatives, modern synthetic diols like 1,8-Octanediol break down more readily and don’t persist in waterways. Companies moving away from controversial chemicals toward ingredients with a track record of safety and low toxicity helps everyone—not just those reading labels, but the larger community relying on clean water and safe recycling processes.
As customers keep raising questions about what goes into their daily products, more transparency and ongoing research really help. Brands run stability tests, gather data from real-world use, and look for ways to create gentle, long-lasting formulas. Choosing ingredients like 1,8-Octanediol doesn’t solve every preservation or moisturization challenge, but it does give formulators another tool to balance safety, comfort, and sustainability. I’ve come to look for it in my own purchases, knowing it’s not just doing one thing but quietly helping on several fronts at once.
1,8-Octanediol often shows up in manufacturing, skincare, and even labs where its ability to attract water and help mix solutions makes it pretty useful. It looks like a clear and oily liquid with minimal odor, and it can dissolve well in organic solvents. I’ve worked with it in small production runs—a little goes a long way. Yet, even chemicals that seem harmless need respect, especially if they show up everywhere from industry to personal care.
Many folks assume 1,8-Octanediol is “safe enough” because it’s less harsh compared to strong acids or flammable solvents. It’s true that it doesn’t burn quickly or explode from a little spark. Still, this chemical can irritate skin, eyes, and airways if you aren’t paying attention. Touching it with bare hands for long periods can leave you with redness or dryness. Splashes in the eyes sting quite a bit and need flushing right away. Breathing in its vapors in a stuffy workspace can also cause throat or nose irritation.
Material safety data sheets warn that this diol may harm aquatic life in concentrated spills. Being careless with storage or disposal isn’t just messy—it’s a real risk for workers and nature.
At home or on the job, I rely on a few habits to avoid trouble. Any container with 1,8-Octanediol needs a tight-fitting lid and should sit away from strong acids, peroxides, or open flames. Even if it doesn’t catch fire easily, I’d rather not tempt fate by storing chemicals side-by-side in a crowded cabinet. A cool, dry spot is best. Keeping bottles labeled clearly saves time and keeps you honest.
During handling, gloves and goggles aren’t optional. Nitrile gloves stand up well, and you won’t regret slipping on a lab coat either. If a workplace has eye-wash stations or emergency showers, learn where they are before getting started.
Spills sound like small problems, but they can get out of hand fast. Mop up drips with absorbent materials and throw them in a sealed bag for disposal—never just rinse them down the sink or toss them as regular trash. Wash up with soap and water if you touch any by accident. In my experience, working with chemicals always teaches this basic lesson: don’t leave cleaning for later.
Sustained, careless exposure leaves its mark, even with something that boasts a “mild” profile. Skin sensitization may develop if it keeps finding its way onto your hands. Even in workplaces that handle gallons every day, good habits make the difference—no shortcuts, no guesswork. I’ve seen teams slip into bad routines and suffer more chemical exposure than needed, which only adds medical headaches and paperwork.
Training isn’t just for newcomers. Regular reviews about chemical hazards keep everyone sharp. Employers who provide updated safety data and run drills keep accidents rare. Reporting a spill or accident right away, without hiding the mistake, helps prevent replays. Strong safety culture grows from everyone contributing, noticing risks, and speaking up—not just ticking boxes.
Some industries are already switching to less hazardous substitutes or reworking how they use diols in production. It pays to ask suppliers about greener choices or safer packaging, especially since environmental standards keep changing. Protecting workers and the environment often lines up with saving money long-term.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | octane-1,8-diol |
| Other names |
1,8-Dihydroxyoctane
Octamethylene glycol |
| Pronunciation | /ˌwʌn.eɪt.ɒkˈteɪ.nəˌdaɪ.ɒl/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 629-41-4 |
| Beilstein Reference | 1854227 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:36559 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL142288 |
| ChemSpider | 10465 |
| DrugBank | DB14185 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03b3922054-ae7a-48b1-9e2f-8a8ce9b121ed |
| EC Number | 204-009-2 |
| Gmelin Reference | 68297 |
| KEGG | C08299 |
| MeSH | D000319 |
| PubChem CID | 82145 |
| RTECS number | RH0875000 |
| UNII | 93P23P6V2M |
| UN number | UN3082 |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID0023103 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C8H18O2 |
| Molar mass | 146.23 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless transparent liquid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 0.96 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Slightly soluble in water |
| log P | 0.89 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.00004 mmHg at 25°C |
| Acidity (pKa) | 14.52 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 15.09 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -67×10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.445 |
| Viscosity | 16.1 mPa.s (25°C) |
| Dipole moment | 2.53 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | “317.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹” |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -588.6 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -4655.3 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D06AX03 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Harmful if swallowed. Causes serious eye irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS07, Warning |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H315: Causes skin irritation. H319: Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | Precautionary statements: P261, P264, P271, P272, P273, P280, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P312, P321, P332+P313, P362+P364, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1,2,0 |
| Flash point | Flash point: 146°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 213 °C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 Oral Rat: 4720 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): Rat oral 3,200 mg/kg |
| PEL (Permissible) | Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 10 mg/m³ |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not established |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Ethylene glycol
1,4-Butanediol 1,6-Hexanediol Neopentyl glycol 1,10-Decanediol |
