1,8-Octanediol, also known as octamethylene glycol, stands out as a versatile chemical raw material. Its molecule comprises a straight eight-carbon alkyl chain with hydroxyl groups clinging to each end. This linear molecular structure, with the formula C8H18O2 and a molecular weight of 146.23 g/mol, lays the foundation for its unique set of physical properties and broad utility across industrial sectors. Solid under standard conditions, it presents as colorless, odorless flakes, small pearls, or crystalline powder—rarely in liquid form at room temperature.
The physical properties of 1,8-Octanediol feed its popularity among manufacturers and formulators. Melting between 59°C and 62°C, it resists dissolving in cold water but shows improved solubility in hot water and most organic solvents, including ethanol and acetone. Its density averages 0.963 g/cm³ at 20°C, providing a firm sense of weight without turning unwieldy in blends or solutions. The dual terminal hydroxyl groups increase reactivity—making it reliable as a diol for polymer and surfactant synthesis. Specific gravity hovers near 0.97, which aligns well with safe handling and ease of mixing in typical production environments.
Most suppliers ship 1,8-Octanediol as uniform white flakes or fine powder; some offer it in pearl-like granules or crystalline chunks. Each form mixes well in both laboratory and plant settings, reducing dust and facilitating transportation. Its stable, solid nature at ambient temperatures simplifies storage—no need for pressurized tanks or specialized drum linings. Despite its solid state, the material dissolves smoothly in hot solvents and integrates readily into melts or polymer matrices.
Commercial grades of 1,8-Octanediol typically guarantee a minimum assay of 99%. Each batch undergoes checks for color (APHA ≤ 30), moisture content (<0.5%), and acid value (usually ≤ 0.2 mg KOH/g) to keep impurities out of sensitive formulations. You’ll find 1,8-Octanediol listed under the HS Code 2905399090, classified among polyhydric alcohols—making international logistics and customs clearance straightforward with proper documentation and labeling practices.
Experience working with 1,8-Octanediol shows that its linear diol structure lets it bridge chemical networks in polymers, imparting flexibility and durability. In polyester and polyurethane production, it contributes to soft segments, supporting elasticity and resilience in end products. The terminal hydroxyl groups accept a variety of reactions: etherifications, esterifications, and acts as chain extenders with isocyanates or carboxylic acids. Chemists value its low volatility, which curbs evaporative losses, and its thermal stability up to roughly 180°C. Given these traits, it’s a reliable material for high-purity cosmetic bases, lubricating oil additives, and several bio-based polymer initiatives targeting lower toxicity and improved environmental profiles.
1,8-Octanediol’s presence stretches from skincare ingredients to specialty monomers in plastics. Personal care chemists reach for it as a gentle humectant and emollient, finding the solid flakes or pearls blend seamlessly into heated oil phases during cream preparation without leaving gritty residue. In plastics and elastomers, ODO works as a raw material for polyesters and copolymers needing flexibility. Paint, adhesive, and textile industries each leverage the reactive chain ends for custom crosslinkers, surfactants, and solvent blends. Scientists are investigating biocompatible polymers featuring this diol, hoping its non-irritant profile will transfer to advanced medical materials, wound dressings, or drug delivery vehicles.
Handling 1,8-Octanediol feels safe compared to solvents or acrid acids; it lacks the volatility that often brings inhalation risk, and most published studies support a low skin irritation risk. The LD50 in rodents sits above 8000 mg/kg, underscoring low acute toxicity. Still, as with any solid chemical, standard PPE—gloves, dust masks, and goggles—keeps accidental exposure or irritation in check, particularly during flaking, grinding, or loading operations. No major hazardous decomposition products arise under normal usage; at temperatures above 180°C or with strong oxidizing agents, users should exercise extra caution, relying on material safety sheets and established protocols. Waste treatment usually involves collection as non-hazardous industrial solid, yet compliant disposal should always follow local environmental guidelines to avoid long-term contamination.
Demand for high-purity 1,8-Octanediol continues to grow as global health, cosmetics, and polymer markets expand. Reliable vendors offer full COAs (Certificates of Analysis) and keep stocks consistent through transparent manufacturing processes and diligent record-keeping. Labs tracking batch traceability and end-use requirements seek suppliers who respond flexibly to scale: from liters for benchtop applications to metric tons for full production. Sampling proves important; handling qualities and melting characteristics can vary between manufacturers. Inspection at the incoming goods stage remains the best safeguard against contamination, ensuring every kilogram meets high standards set for medical, food-contact, or specialty industrial formulations.
Pretending the path from laboratory curiosity to bulk commodity doesn’t face bumps overlooks real-world challenges. Sourcing ODO reliably sometimes tests the patience of buyers; production routes depend on both petrochemical and, less commonly, bio-based feedstocks, and price swings reflect shifts in raw material markets. Where users compete for limited yearly output, collaborative contracts provide supply security. Sustainability takes on new importance, with R&D teams pushing for renewable feedstocks and greener processing routes. Purification, particularly when medical or cosmetic grades are in play, brings added cost and complexity. Investing time in supplier audits and joint quality improvement ensures downstream users avoid unwanted impurities or performance surprises. In the end, open communication—up and down the supply chain—keeps misunderstandings to a minimum and safety at the top of everyone’s mind.
