1-Decanol Explained

1-Decanol is a straight chain fatty alcohol with ten carbon atoms and the molecular formula C₁₀H₂₁OH. It is a colorless to light yellow viscous liquid that is insoluble in water and has an aromatic odor.^[1] The interfacial tension against water at 20 °C is 8.97 mN/m.

Production

Decanol can be prepared by the hydrogenation of decanoic acid, which occurs in modest quantities in coconut oil (about 10%) and palm kernel oil (about 4%). It may also be produced synthetically via the Ziegler process.

Uses

Decanol is used in the manufacture of plasticizers, lubricants, surfactants and solvents. Its ability to permeate the skin has led to it being investigated as a penetration enhancer for transdermal drug delivery.^{[2] [3]}

Safety

Like other medium chain fatty alcohols, 1-decanol is able to permeate the skin which can lead to irritation.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Material Safety Data Sheet - Decyl alcohol, 99%. live. https://archive.today/20210901171536/https://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/11356.htm. 2021-09-01. 2021-09-01. fscimage.fishersci.com.
2. Kanikkannan. N. Singh. Mandip. Skin permeation enhancement effect and skin irritation of saturated fatty alcohols. International Journal of Pharmaceutics. November 2002. 248. 1–2. 219–228. 10.1016/S0378-5173(02)00454-4. 12429475.
3. Williams. Adrian C. Barry. Brian W. Penetration enhancers. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews. March 2004. 56. 5. 603–618. 10.1016/j.addr.2003.10.025. 15019749.