1-Nonanol found its footing in the chemistry world back in the late 1800s. At that time, researchers started going beyond basic distillations, breaking down essential oils to understand the substance inside. Scientists slowly learned how to pull straight-chain alcohols from plant and animal fats, but 1-Nonanol usually showed up in natural oils like orange or rose. Early perfumers saw its sweet, waxy aroma as a step toward better fragrances. Chemists expanded knowledge by working on fractional distillation and finding ways to separate 1-Nonanol, mapping its properties with every experiment. Only in modern industry did the methods for making and purifying 1-Nonanol become both scalable and affordable.
1-Nonanol serves as a higher straight-chain fatty alcohol with the formula C9H19OH. It carries a colorless to pale yellow appearance with a mild, floral scent and pops up in many natural sources, including orange oil, rose oil, and even in ripe fruit. Industries lean on it for uses ranging from fragrance-building in perfumes to a core solvent for pharmaceutical products. Its basic formula sparks plenty of chemical creativity, since a single unbranched alcohol chain leaves room for modification and application.
Like most primary alcohols, 1-Nonanol is both polar and nonpolar, allowing it to blend well with several compounds. Its molar mass comes to about 144.25 g/mol, and you’ll find it melting close to -6°C and boiling at 214°C. With a density just below water, at 0.826 g/cm3, it floats and spreads easily in organic mixtures. It dissolves well in ether and many other organic solvents, but only sparingly in water—typical for long-chain alcohols. It’s got a flashpoint around 93°C, setting a clear bar for handling and storage.
Every drum or container of 1-Nonanol comes labeled with purity, often 98–99% on the industrial scale, and proper hazard information, including its UN number (UN 1987 for flammable alcohols). Labels also provide information about its batch origin, recommended storage temperature, and essential hazard pictograms. You’ll find producers sticking to strict specifications concerning heavy metal traces, water content, and color, since customers in fragrance or flavors want as little contamination as possible.
Synthetically, 1-Nonanol comes from two main pathways: natural extraction or catalytic synthesis. Large-scale producers lean toward the Ziegler process, coupling ethylene with aluminum-based catalysts before oxidizing and hydrolyzing the result. An alternate route uses reduction of nonanoic acid or esters with strong reducing agents. Extraction from natural oils plays a much smaller role, mostly because it’s expensive and unreliable for high volume. Every step, from cracking hydrocarbon feedstocks to final distillation, gets watched carefully for unwanted byproducts or leftover reagents.
The molecular structure of 1-Nonanol, with its single terminal hydroxyl group, leaves many doors open for classic transformations. It becomes a nonanaldehyde after mild oxidation, which finds immediate use in perfumery. Stronger oxidation leads to nonanoic acid, widely used as a precursor for plasticizers. Esterification with carboxylic acids creates flavors or specialty solvents. 1-Nonanol’s long alkyl chain also gets used for ether synthesis, surfactant production, and experimental catalysis in organic chemistry. Its chemical flexibility stands out for chemists who want a straight-chain substrate for further modification.
Over the years, 1-Nonanol has picked up a long list of names in labs and industry. Some of the most common synonyms include n-Nonanol, Nonyl alcohol, Pelargonyl alcohol. Product literature might list it as Alcohol C9, Nonan-1-ol, or even Nonanole in European sources. These names all trace back to its nine-carbon chain and terminal alcohol group, so the context usually makes clear what’s inside the drum.
Handling 1-Nonanol takes proper respect for both its flammability and irritant properties. Eye, skin, and respiratory irritation top the list of health concerns, so chemical gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation form the daily standard in workplaces. The compound burns with enough intensity that all operations take place away from ignition sources, with fire extinguishers handy. Long-term exposure in confined spaces increases risks, so occupational health guidelines require careful monitoring of air and working conditions. Storage uses airtight, labeled containers, tightly closed and placed somewhere cool.
This straight-chain alcohol pops up nearly everywhere in specialty chemistry and industry. In the fragrance and flavor world, it brings both floral tones and fixes lighter scents, often masking off-notes and rounding out formulations. Labs often use it as a reference compound for studying alcohol oxidation or chain-length effects on solubility. Beyond the lab, manufacturers make use of 1-Nonanol as a solvent in resins, coatings, and in some surfactant systems. Pharmaceutical makers include it in synthetic intermediates, blending processes, and custom formulations.
Academic groups and R&D teams look to 1-Nonanol as a model for straight-chain alcohols in both basic and applied science. Studies on its role as a membrane disruptor shed light on toxicology and cell biology mechanisms. Research teams tweak its structure for better performance in green solvents and biodegradable surfactants, reducing environmental pressure. 1-Nonanol’s backbone gets explored for new bio-based polymers, since its chain length matches the needs for flexibility and abrasion resistance. Projects linking synthesis and sustainability try to improve both production yield and purity with minimal fossil inputs.
Research into the toxicological profile of 1-Nonanol over the years shows that, while not the most hazardous of chemicals, it still poses risks. High doses cause central nervous system depression in animal studies, and repeated exposure irritates eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. Acute toxicity levels (oral LD50 in rodents, ranging 1–3 g/kg) suggest moderate risk. Human data focuses mostly on occupational incidents, where vapor inhalation or skin absorption causes temporary reactions but few chronic complaints, provided safety standards stay in place.
As industry and research shift toward greener, safer, and bio-based ingredients, 1-Nonanol stands at the threshold of new roles. Biotechnologists work on enzymatic and microbial routes for clean production from renewable feedstocks. Its role as a platform molecule for new surfactants and specialty esters continues to grow, especially for markets demanding both performance and safety. Continued studies into health and environment keep shaping how companies label and market 1-Nonanol, with regulators asking for clearer toxicological data and improved handling protocols. Synthetic chemistry continues to find clever ways to use the stable, straight chain as a launching pad for more complex molecules, likely ensuring a long future for this classic alcohol.
Few people stop to think about how that pleasant, sweet-woody smell in perfumes is crafted. After a few years handling raw materials in a small fragrance shop, I learned that 1-Nonanol is no stranger to the process. You’ll find this compound on the component lists of high-end perfumes, soaps, and even household cleaners. It gives blends a fresh, slightly floral note, gently smoothing scents that might otherwise be too sharp or heavy. This isn’t an ingredient that takes center stage, but it builds the rich, layered complexity that transforms a regular soap into a favorite one.
The food world doesn’t miss out on the power of 1-Nonanol either. In trace amounts, flavorists rely on it to mimic citrus, melon, or even apple notes in processed foods and drinks. Anyone skeptical about “natural flavors” on a snack wrapper might be surprised to know how much work—and science—goes into making artificial flavors truly appetizing. Safety always matters, though. Experts at the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) have reviewed 1-Nonanol and given it the green light for use in foods, as long as concentrations stay low. Too much, and it starts to taste bitter or harsh. Used carefully, it tricks the brain into believing a jelly bean really does taste like fresh fruit.
This compound doesn’t just stay in fragrance and food labs. 1-Nonanol steps into manufacturing, especially in creating lubricants and plasticizers. Anyone who’s worked with plastics appreciates the subtle balance needed to keep materials flexible during molding or extrusion. 1-Nonanol can provide some elasticity and durability in products like vinyl flooring or electrical cables. Chemists choose it for its long carbon chain, which adds flexibility without making things greasy or unstable. The plastic industry faces tough sustainability questions these days, and using substances like 1-Nonanol, which break down more easily than some other alternatives, can point toward safer, less persistent materials. This helps limit environmental impact, especially with growing concerns about microplastics and pollution.
Nothing used in food or fragrance gets a total free pass. Even though 1-Nonanol rates as low-risk for most people, repeated skin exposure or accidental overdoses can irritate or sensitize users. I’ve seen people, myself included, develop itchy hands after repeated exposure in an unventilated workspace. It reminds us to respect basic safety: gloves, fresh air, and not getting careless just because something smells good. Strong odors might not guarantee toxicity, but the Occupational Safety and Health Administration still recommends careful handling. Manufacturers need to train workers well and check air quality to keep things safe. Accidents drop, and people feel more confident knowing risks aren’t ignored.
More eyes now watch what goes into products, with consumers reading labels more closely and regulators setting higher standards. The chemical industry already explores greener methods for producing alcohols like 1-Nonanol, aiming for renewable feedstocks instead of petroleum sources. Some startups experiment with biosynthetic methods drawn from algae or yeast. If they succeed, we could see a shift toward safer and more sustainable perfumes, cleaners, and plastics. Such progress supports both healthy workplaces and a cleaner global environment—key goals for businesses that want to show trust and care for their customers.
Folks who’ve spent time mixing chemicals in a lab know the smell of alcohols—some are sharper than others. 1-Nonanol carries a bitter, oily scent. One day, after a few minutes handling a small amount, my hands felt slick and stubbornly scented even with a lot of soap. Unlike the clear, fast-evaporating nature of ethanol, 1-Nonanol feels heavier and sticks around on both skin and surfaces.
1-Nonanol falls under alcohols with a longer carbon chain. It's used for making flavors, perfumes, and plasticizers. It doesn’t evaporate quickly like isopropanol or ethanol and lingers longer in the workspace if spilled. The European Chemicals Agency classifies it as an irritant for eyes and skin. Inhaling strong vapors can affect breathing and cause headaches. It doesn’t quickly penetrate gloves, but bare skin sees redness and dryness after short contact.
Labs following best safety rules wear nitrile gloves and keep good airflow. On days when I skipped gloves by mistake, cleaning off 1-Nonanol took a couple rounds and left my skin irritated. Quick exposure rarely brings lasting trouble, though repeated contact leads to dryness and cracking.
Safe handling goes beyond personal habits. Any shop, classroom, or research space using 1-Nonanol needs to post proper safety sheets nearby and remind folks about goggles and gloves. Students often shrug off the label 'mild irritation,' assuming their skin will handle it fine. This stuff creeps into cuts and hangs around if not scrubbed well. Storage containers need tight seals due to its tendency to pick up odors and spread a faint unwanted aroma.
The numbers bear out some risk. In Germany, workplace exposure limits sit at 10 ppm. Not many standard settings reach those levels, though pouring or warming up the alcohol can easily send vapors out. Local exhaust fans save a lot of trouble and keep air far fresher for the next crew walking in.
1-Nonanol breaks down in the environment, but releases still harm aquatic life. Poured down the drain, even small volumes raise problems over time. Disposing of it with other solvents through a chemical waste program protects both water supplies and downstream animals.
The facts show skin gets the roughest deal. Anyone with allergies, open cuts, or chronic skin issues should take extra care. If most of your day involves lab work, lotions without fragrances help keep skin from cracking. Still, if you ever splash it in your eyes, rinse for at least fifteen minutes and see a doctor.
Going by experience and published studies, good gloves and eye protection cover the basics. Stick to lab coats, avoid eating or drinking around chemical stations, and keep spill clean-up gear on hand. Training never hurts either; walking through the steps of what to do if you spill or splash the liquid helps everyone feel ready instead of nervous.
In short, 1-Nonanol demands the same respect most industrial alcohols do. It sits in that gray area—common enough to overlook, but persistent enough to matter. With the usual rules and a bit of personal attention, most folks get through a day’s work with nothing worse than a stubborn scent stuck to their hands.
Anyone who’s spent time in a chemistry lab will recognize that the smell of alcohols often signals something important is happening on the bench. 1-Nonanol, sitting in the family of straight-chain fatty alcohols, stands out. Whether you’ve mixed up some artificial flavors in food technology or checked ingredient labels on fragrances, you’ve probably brushed across its presence. This compound offers more than a backdrop for nerdy trivia—its physical traits shape its place in industry and research.
Start with appearances: 1-Nonanol shows up as a clear, oily liquid. To the nose, it gives an odor often described as floral or citrusy, much less harsh than ethanol or methanol. I’ve worked with it in undergraduate experiments where tactile cleanup feels less like working with paint thinner and more like handling viscous oil.
With a boiling point at around 214°C and a melting point near −7°C, it’s clear this alcohol holds on to its liquid form over a wide temperature range. Compare this to ethanol, which boils off at just under 80°C, and you quickly pick up on why 1-Nonanol doesn’t evaporate easily during processing. Dropping it into water, you’ll see it doesn’t mix well. Its long nine-carbon tail makes it more stubborn than shorter alcohols—it floats in beads on the surface, resisting a quick blend until you add a good surfactant or stir it vigorously.
Density runs at about 0.83 g/cm³ at room temperature. So the liquid feels lighter than water but heavier than most solvents you’d use in organic extractions. Its solubility gives chemists headaches and inspiration all at once. In water, only about 1 gram will dissolve in 100 milliliters. In organic solvents like ether, chloroform, or hexane, it dissolves easily. This mix of stubbornness and flexibility is the reason you find 1-Nonanol in fragrance chemistry—alcohol groups bring some polarity for reaction, but the fat tail keeps it from running wild in a water-based system.
Working with 1-Nonanol feels safer than handling the more volatile, low-molecular-weight relatives. Splash some on your gloves and you’ll find the skin feels slick, not immediately dried or chilled. Still, the substance can cause skin or eye irritation. Proper lab ventilation doesn’t just keep colleagues happy—it addresses real occupational exposure concerns. Handled carelessly, inhaling its fumes produces a strong taste, reminding me of poor ventilation days in a cramped organic chemistry lab.
1-Nonanol’s unique set of physical factors means it ends up in different places—part of artificial flavor creation, an ingredient in perfumes, and sometimes even a base for making plasticizers. Food scientists value its high boiling point for processes that need stability under heat, while fragrance developers like its persistent, pleasant scent. Handling regulations built on occupational hygiene data ensure everyone in the lab or factory stays out of harm’s way.
Building trust in the use of any chemical, especially something that might end up in products people eat or put on their skin, means reporting accurate physical data and sticking to safety protocols. My own experience tells me that getting hands-on with 1-Nonanol in a lab helps paint a real-world picture—no amount of textbook reading substitutes for seeing the oily layer in a beaker or catching that distinctive citrus scent. These moments connect the science to industry, and facts to actual practice.
Having spent a few years around chemical stockrooms in academic labs, I know how some bottles demand a little extra respect. 1-Nonanol falls into that category. This fatty alcohol gives off a distinctive odor and, truth be told, it’s flammable enough to turn heads among safety officers. So it pays to organize a storage plan that doesn’t just tick the compliance box, but also protects the people who spend their days around such substances.
A room with decent ventilation always makes a big difference. I still remember the cloud of fumes from a poorly stored sample after a ventilation failure. 1-Nonanol isn’t among the most volatile solvents, but that doesn’t mean it gets a pass. Heat speeds up evaporation and can raise flammability risks, so a cool, dry spot away from sun and heat sources takes priority. No one wants their storage zone doubling as a sauna.
Using spark-proof outlets and storing the chemical away from open flames, strong oxidizers, and acids reduces the chance of any drama. Flammable liquid cabinets come in handy here. I’ve watched foam-lined cabinets snuff out small fires before they get ugly. These cabinets often resist corrosion and leakage, which make them perfect for alcohols like 1-Nonanol.
I once saw a glass bottle give way under the wrong conditions, leaving shards and a puddle on the shelf. For 1-Nonanol, chemical-resistant containers with a tight seal set the standard. Polyethylene and glass with Teflon-lined caps handle this kind of alcohol without breaking down or reacting. Avoid using metal lids or containers, as they could corrode over time and lead to risky leaks.
Handwritten scrawls on fading tape just make trouble for the next person. Printed, waterproof labels show what’s inside, plus warning signs for “Flammable” or “Irritant.” Regular checks stop surprises. Someone might discover a cracked cap or a patch of white residue that signals leakage. By catching these early, facilities avoid contamination and accidents.
Many mishaps stem from rushed hands or newbies left alone without enough instruction. Investing time in showing everyone proper handling, understanding Material Safety Data Sheets, and donning gloves and goggles turns safety from theory into habit. Even folks who know their way around a lab sometimes skip steps under pressure, so reminders go a long way.
Every site benefits from having a spill kit ready nearby, not crammed somewhere behind extra furniture. Absorbent pads, neutralizing liquids, and proper disposal containers keep cleanup swift. Disposal requires a conversation with a licensed hazardous waste handler—pouring down a drain or tossing in the regular bin could land your workplace in legal and financial trouble, aside from putting people at risk.
Some labs still run on whatever folks can remember about what went where. Paper or digital logs prevent chemicals like 1-Nonanol from sitting forgotten for years, which only magnifies risk. Knowing the age and quantity helps with planning and urgent disposal before degradation sets in.
Getting storage right gives peace of mind. It’s about more than regulations or paperwork. For anyone working around chemicals, habits formed today matter for long-term health and safety tomorrow. No shortcut ever proved worth the aftermath.
Whenever someone asks about the chemical formula of 1-Nonanol, it’s worth pausing for a moment. Chemistry’s not just about memorizing details for the next quiz. The formula for 1-Nonanol is C9H20O, which packs a punch in industrial, culinary, and scientific circles. Though most folks skip right past the “non” and move on, the nine-carbon backbone is part of what gives this alcohol its unique identity. Growing up around a school science lab, bottles labeled with exotic-sounding alcohols—octanol, decanol, nonanol—always caught my curiosity. Knowing the formula sometimes acted as a passport: understanding how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen link up doesn’t just mean you ace a test, but you see connections in everything from cosmetics to food flavors.
Looking at a label on a perfume or a jar of flavoring, you’d be surprised how often something like 1-Nonanol shows up. Formulas don’t live only in textbooks. In manufacturing, precise knowledge tells workers and chemists how much to use, how it reacts, what safety equipment to grab—a single atom out of place can change how a chemical behaves. Without knowing that C9H20O truly defines the structure, slip-ups happen. Take cases of accidental contamination in food processing: identifying the right isomer or molecular formula keeps people safe. During a summer spent volunteering at a local co-op kitchen, ingredient lists sometimes tripped us up. With so many possible molecules, training gave us tools to read and recognize each chemical that crossed our counters.
In daily products, 1-Nonanol finds its way into flavors, fragrances, and even cleaning agents. Strict regulations surround its use, with agencies like the Food and Drug Administration and European Food Safety Authority weighing in on safety. Research from these watchdogs shows that while 1-Nonanol adds richness to fruit and floral scents, it can also pose problems if mishandled—irritation, allergic reactions, or worse, depending on exposure. Labs rely on accurate chemical formulas to help ensure they’re following the right guidelines for storage, disposal, and even personal protective equipment. And on a lighter side, mixologists and food scientists exploring flavor never ignore chemical structure. My own foray into home brewing underscored the point: misjudging just one hydrocarbon could shift a batch’s aroma from something crisp and inviting to harsh and unbearable.
Sometimes mistakes aren’t about intention—they’re tied to education. Schools could do a better job showing why chemical formulas like C9H20O mean more than their letters. Practically, we can push for more hands-on labs, better safety training, and clear labeling in every industry using 1-Nonanol. Standardizing how we list chemicals on products would cut down on confusion and help prevent errors in labs or commercial kitchens. Stronger communication between scientists and everyday users can demystify chemistry, make workplaces safer, and reduce environmental risk. Open conversations in classrooms, on factory floors, and at community events have the power to turn a jumble of numbers and letters into something that really matters for health and innovation.
Teaching the value behind each molecular formula sets a better foundation for new discoveries and safer products. By approaching molecules like 1-Nonanol as part of everyday life—not just academic trivia—kids and adults alike gain tools to make smarter decisions, whether at work or at home. There’s real value in getting the basics right, not just for the exam room, but for the world outside it.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | nonan-1-ol |
| Other names |
Aminononanol
Nonan-1-ol n-Nonyl alcohol Alcohol C9 Pelargonic alcohol Nonanol |
| Pronunciation | /ˈnɒn.ə.nɒl/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 143-08-8 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | `CCCCCCCCC(O)` |
| Beilstein Reference | 1209240 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:35569 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL14222 |
| ChemSpider | 8217 |
| DrugBank | DB14007 |
| ECHA InfoCard | EC Number: 203-913-4 |
| EC Number | 203-913-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 31958 |
| KEGG | C02362 |
| MeSH | D009619 |
| PubChem CID | 8217 |
| RTECS number | BZ4725000 |
| UNII | K5126T2FSF |
| UN number | UN1993 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C9H20O |
| Molar mass | 144.25 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless oily liquid |
| Odor | orange; rose; citrus |
| Density | 0.829 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | 0.16 g/L |
| log P | 3.36 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.021 mmHg (25°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 16 |
| Basicity (pKb) | pKb 5.80 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -65.5e-6 cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.426 |
| Viscosity | 0.0116 Pa·s (at 20 °C) |
| Dipole moment | 4.25 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 282.0 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -328.09 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -6130.7 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D04AA17 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P271, P273, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P337+P313, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-1-0 |
| Flash point | 98 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 220 °C |
| Explosive limits | Explosive limits: 0.9–4.8% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 3730 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): 3200 mg/kg (oral, rat) |
| NIOSH | NA0160000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL = 50 ppm |
| REL (Recommended) | 12 mg/m³ |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | 140 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
1-Octanol
1-Decanol Nonanal |
