[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of isooctanoic acid, is isooctanoic acid toxic?

Isooctanoic acid properties

Isooctanoic acid, also known as 2-ethylhexanoic acid, is an organic acid with the formula C8H16O2. It is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature with a slight odor. The molecular structure of isooctanoic acid gives it high chemical stability and low volatility, with a boiling point of 228°C and a melting point of -76°C. It has a density of about 0.90g/cm³ and has a low solubility in water, but has good solubility in most organic solvents. Due to these physicochemical properties, isooctanoic acid is widely used in many industrial applications.

Isooctanoic acid use

Isooctanoic acid is widely used in many industries because of its unique chemical properties. Isooctanoic acid is an important raw material for the production of various metal salts, which are widely used as catalysts and stabilizers. For example, zinc isooctanoate and cobalt isooctanoate are used as catalysts and hardeners in the coatings, plastics and rubber industries. Isooctanoic acid can be used as an intermediate in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of certain drugs. Isooctanoic acid is also used as a lubricant additive, a plasticizer for resins, and a preservative for metal surfaces. These multiple uses make isooctanoic acid a very important industrial chemical.

Isooctanoic acid upstream and downstream raw materials

In the production of isooctanoic acid, the main upstream feedstocks include 2-ethylhexanol and carbon monoxide. 2-Ethylhexanol is an important chemical raw material commonly used in the preparation of plasticizers and other organic compounds. The main reaction for the production of isooctanoic acid is the reaction of 2-ethylhexanol with carbon monoxide and water under the action of a catalyst. The isooctanoic acid produced during the reaction is of high purity and can be used in a variety of downstream applications. In downstream applications, isooctanoic acid can be further reacted with various metal salts to form different metal isooctanoates, which are widely used in different industrial fields.

Isooctanoic acid production process

The process for the production of isooctanoic acid mainly involves the carbonylation of 2-ethylhexanol. This process is usually carried out under high temperature and high pressure conditions, and it is necessary to use a suitable catalyst to improve the reaction efficiency. Commonly used catalysts include complexes of metals such as cobalt and rhodium. The crude product produced by the reaction undergoes a series of rectification and purification steps, and finally high-purity isooctanoic acid is obtained. The optimization of production process and the improvement of catalyst are the focus of current research, in order to improve the yield and reduce the production cost.

Isooctanoic acid storage method

Since isooctanoic acid is volatile and corrosive, appropriate measures need to be taken during storage. Isooctanoic acid should be stored in a closed container, avoid exposure to air to prevent oxidation and moisture absorption. Storage containers shall be of corrosion resistant material such as stainless steel or glass. The storage environment should be kept dry, well ventilated, and avoid direct sunlight and high temperature. Keep away from fire and heat sources to prevent safety hazards caused by the volatilization of iso-octanoic acid. In the process of transportation, it is also necessary to use special chemical transportation equipment to ensure safety.

Isooctanoic Acid Market and Prospect

The global isooctanoic acid market is influenced by a variety of factors, including raw material prices, downstream demand, and environmental regulations. At present, with the enhancement of environmental awareness and the increase in demand for high-performance materials, the market demand for iso-octanoic acid is showing a growing trend. Especially in the development of new catalysts and bio-based chemicals, isooctanoic acid has broad application prospects. In the future, with the advancement of technology and the optimization of production processes, the production cost of iso-octanoic acid is expected to be further reduced, and the market competitiveness will be further enhanced.

Isooctanoic acid environment and safety

Isooctanoic acid requires attention to its potential effects on the environment and human body during its use and handling. Although isooctanoic acid itself is less toxic, long-term exposure may cause irritation to the skin and respiratory system. Waste isooctanoic acid and its derivatives should be treated in accordance with hazardous waste treatment standards to avoid environmental pollution. Production enterprises should strictly abide by environmental protection laws and regulations, take effective waste gas and waste water treatment measures to reduce the impact on the environment in the production process.

Conclusion

As an important organic acid, isooctanoic acid is widely used in industry. Its unique chemical properties make it an important raw material for the production of catalysts, stabilizers, pharmaceutical intermediates and other products. With the continuous progress of technology, the production process and application fields of iso-octanoic acid will continue to expand, and the market prospect is broad. In the process of production and use, we must pay attention to environmental and safety issues to ensure its sustainable development. Through continuous innovation and optimization, the different bitterness industry will usher in a broader space for development.