2-Octanol (Capryl Alcohol)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries supplies high-purity 2-Octanol (also known as Capryl Alcohol or Methyl Hexyl Carbinol), a bio-based secondary C-8 alcohol produced during the manufacture of Sebacic Acid.
Unlike synthetic octanols derived from petroleum, our 2-Octanol is 100% vegetable-based. It is widely valued in the mining and chemical industries for its superior wetting properties, low volatility, and role as a high-efficiency defoaming agent.
1. Production: The Cleavage Co-Product
2-Octanol is produced via the high-temperature alkali fusion of Castor Oil (Ricinoleic Acid).
- The Reaction: When Ricinoleic Acid is heated with Caustic Soda at $>250^\circ C$, the carbon chain cleaves at the 12th position (the hydroxyl site).
- The Yield: This cleavage produces Sebacic Acid (the C-10 dicarboxylic acid) and 2-Octanol (the volatile C-8 alcohol).$$Ricinoleic \ Acid \xrightarrow{\Delta / NaOH} Sebacic \ Acid \ (Solid) + 2-Octanol \ (Liquid)$$
- Purification: The crude alcohol is distilled to remove ketones and other by-products, yielding a clear, high-purity solvent.
2. Key Industrial Applications
Mining & Mineral Processing
- Flotation Frother: Extensively used in the coal and mineral industries as a frothing agent. Its specific surface activity helps separate valuable minerals from ore gangue during the flotation process.
Chemical Synthesis (Plasticizers & Esters)
- Green Plasticizers: Used as a bio-renewable alternative to petrochemical 2-Ethylhexanol (2-EH) in the synthesis of phthalate and adipate plasticizers, such as Dicapryl Phthalate (DCP). These plasticizers offer excellent low-temperature flexibility to PVC.
- Flavor Precursors: Refined 2-Octanol is oxidized to produce Caproic Acid (Hexanoic Acid), which is then esterified to Ethyl Caproate, a key flavoring agent with pineapple/banana notes.
Industrial Solvents & Defoamers
- Anti-Foaming Agent: A highly effective defoamer and antibubbling agent in wetting agents, textile auxiliaries, and industrial coatings.1
- Solvent: Used as a solvent for waxes, oils, resins, and lacquers due to its high boiling point and good solvency power.2
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries ensures strict quality control for solvent and synthesis applications.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | 2-Octanol (Capryl Alcohol) | — |
| Synonyms | Methyl Hexyl Carbinol, Secondary Octyl Alcohol | — |
| CAS Number | 123-96-6 | — |
| Formula | $C_8H_{18}O$ | — |
| Appearance | Clear, Colorless Liquid | Visual |
| Odor | Pungent, Aromatic, Fatty | Organoleptic |
| Purity (GC) | 98.0% Min | Gas Chromatography |
| Specific Gravity @ 20°C | 0.819 – 0.824 | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 178°C – 181°C | — |
| Flash Point | 71°C (160°F) | Closed Cup |
| Melting Point | -38°C | — |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.15 mm Hg @ 25°C | — |
| Solubility | Insoluble in Water; Soluble in Ethanol/Ether | — |
| Moisture | 0.5% Max | Karl Fischer |
Packaging & Storage
- Packaging: 170 Kg Steel Drums / ISO Tanks / Bulk Tankers.
- Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from open flames. The product is flammable (Class 3) and should be handled with standard solvent safety protocols.3
For Bio-Solvents & Mining Reagents:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/