[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of n-octanol, safety technical instructions of n-octanol

n-Octanol properties

Octanol (1-octanol) is a long chain fatty alcohol with the chemical formula C8H18O and a molecular weight of 130.23g/mol. It is a colorless transparent liquid with a slight smell of alcohol. n-Octanol has a melting point of -16°C, a boiling point of 195-196°C and a density of about 0.83g/cm³. The solubility in water is low, but it can be miscible with most organic solvents such as ethanol, ether and benzene. Octanol has good chemical stability, but it may decompose under high temperature and strong oxidant.

Octanol use

Octanol is widely used in industry and daily life. It is an intermediate in the production of plastic plasticizers, especially plays a key role in the production of phthalate plasticizers. n-Octanol is also an important raw material for the manufacture of surfactants, which are widely used in detergents, emulsifiers and lubricants. n-Octanol can also be used as a formulation for solvents, fragrances, cosmetics and pesticides. Because of its low toxicity and good biodegradability, the application of n-octanol in the field of environmental protection has been paid more and more attention.

n-Octanol upstream and downstream raw materials

In the production of n-octanol, the main upstream feedstocks are ethylene and synthesis gas. These materials can be converted to n-octanol by the Ziegler-Natta catalyst process or hydroformylation. The hydroformylation reaction is through the reaction of ethylene with carbon monoxide and hydrogen to produce aldehyde, and then through the hydrogenation reaction to produce alcohol. As a downstream product, n-octanol is mainly used in the production of various plasticizers, surfactants and other chemical products. Therefore, the market demand for n-octanol is mainly influenced by the plastics and household chemicals industries.

n-Octanol Production Process

The production of n-octanol generally employs a Ziegler-Natta catalyst method and a hydroformylation reaction method. In the Ziegler-Natta process, long-chain olefins are produced by the reaction of ethylene and triethyl aluminum, and then n-octanol is obtained by oxidation and hydrogenation. Hydroformylation reaction method is the reaction of ethylene, carbon monoxide and hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to generate aldehyde, and then through the hydrogenation reaction to generate n-octanol. The two processes have their own advantages and disadvantages. The Ziegler-Natta method is suitable for large-scale continuous production, while the hydroformylation method has high selectivity and yield.

Octanol Market Analysis

The market demand for n-octanol mainly comes from industries such as plastics, cosmetics, spices and pesticides. With the continuous development of these industries, the market demand for n-octanol is also growing. In particular, the plastic plasticizer market, octanol as the main raw material, its demand accounted for the largest proportion. In recent years, with the enhancement of environmental awareness, n-octanol as a more environmentally friendly chemical raw materials, its market prospects are widely optimistic. Market prices are influenced by raw material prices, production processes, environmental policies and other factors, with a certain degree of volatility.

Octanol storage method

The storage of n-octanol requires attention to fire and explosion protection. Since n-octanol is a flammable liquid, it should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources. Tanks shall be sealed to prevent air leakage. Octanol is irritating to the skin and eyes, so protective gloves and goggles should be worn during operation. Octanol should be stored separately with oxidants, acids, etc., to avoid the occurrence of chemical reactions caused by danger.

Octanol safety and environmental protection

Strict safety procedures must be followed when handling and using n-octanol. Octanol has a certain toxicity, irritation to the skin and eyes, inhalation of high concentrations of steam may cause respiratory discomfort. Therefore, the operation should wear appropriate protective equipment and be carried out in a well-ventilated environment. The waste treatment of n-octanol should also pay attention to environmental protection and should be treated according to regulations to avoid environmental pollution. N-octanol has good biodegradability and can be quickly degraded in the natural environment, but it is still necessary to pay attention to prevent the impact of large amounts of emissions on the environment.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material, n-octanol is widely used in the fields of plastic plasticizers, surfactants and daily chemicals. Its production relies on upstream raw materials such as ethylene and synthesis gas, which are produced by Ziegler-Natta catalyst method and hydroformylation reaction method. With the enhancement of environmental awareness and the growth of market demand, the application prospect of n-octanol is widely optimistic. Safety and environmental protection regulations shall be strictly observed during its production and use to ensure personal safety and environmental protection. The importance of n-octanol in the chemical industry cannot be ignored, and it is expected to play a role in more fields in the future.