N-Propanol (Normal Propyl Alcohol)

Overview

N-Propanol (CAS No: 71-23-8), also known as Normal Propyl Alcohol, is a colorless, flammable liquid. This organic compound, a member of the primary alcohols, has a characteristic sharp alcoholic odor. It is a versatile solvent, disinfectant, and chemical intermediate widely used in industry.

N-Propanol has moderate solubility in water and is miscible with most organic solvents in all proportions. Due to its longer hydrocarbon chain compared to ethanol and isopropanol, it exhibits different solvent properties. It is especially widely used in printing inks, cleaning products, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Applications

N-Propanol has a wide range of industrial and consumer applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Flammable Eye and skin irritant Central nervous system effect

Personal Protective Equipment

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical goggles or face shield
• Proper ventilation or respiratory protection (at high vapor concentrations)
• Chemical-resistant apron or work clothing

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area
• Keep away from heat and ignition sources
• Store in original closed containers, protected from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing materials
• Storage temperature: 15-25°C

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water mist
• Do not use water jet - may spread fire
• Intervene with appropriate respiratory protection by trained personnel

Handling and Storage

Transportation

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
• Ground to prevent static electricity buildup
• Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during transport

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
• Maintain "Flammable Liquid" signs in storage areas
• Use appropriate breathing vents in storage tanks

Spill Response

• Remove all ignition sources
• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spill with sand, chemical sponge, or other absorbent materials
• Dispose of absorbed material properly
• Clean spilled area with plenty of water and detergent

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Flammable Liquid Category 2
• Skin Irritation Category 2
• Eye Irritation Category 2A
• Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3

Key Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• OSHA: Subject to hazard communication standard
• NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 3, Reactivity 0
• EPA: Classified as VOC
• FDA: Approved for use in non-food contact applications

International Regulations

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Subject to EPA VOC regulations
• China: Present in IECSC list
• Japan: Present in ISHL list
• Global: Not subject to Montreal Protocol
• IMO: Not classified for marine pollution

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

N-Propanol rapidly degrades in the atmosphere through photochemical reactions (half-life 1-3 days). If released into water sources, it is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. It is readily biodegradable and does not persist long in the environment. In soil, it rapidly evaporates and undergoes microbial degradation.

Biodegradation

• Air: Half-life of 1-3 days through photochemical reactions
• Water: Completely degrades within 5-10 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Rapid degradation through microbial activity
• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): 1.6-1.9 g O₂/g N-Propanol
• Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): 2.4-2.6 g O₂/g N-Propanol

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities can be disposed of through biological treatment in licensed facilities
• Large quantities should be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Dispose of in accordance with local regulations
• Prevent mixing with wastewater
• Prevent infiltration into soil and groundwater

Frequently Asked Questions

How is N-Propanol produced?

N-Propanol is primarily produced by two methods: 1) Ethylene hydroformylation (oxo process) to form propanal and its hydrogenation, 2) Production through fermentation. Industrial scale production uses continuous distillation processes, with global annual production exceeding 1 million tons.

What is the difference between N-Propanol and Isopropanol?

N-Propanol (1-propanol) is a primary alcohol, while isopropanol (2-propanol) is a secondary alcohol. N-Propanol has a higher boiling point (97.2°C vs 82.6°C) and lower vapor pressure. Their disinfection efficacy differs - isopropanol is a more common disinfectant, but N-Propanol may be more effective against certain virus types.

Is N-Propanol different from ethanol and isopropanol as a disinfectant?

Yes, N-Propanol's antimicrobial spectrum and efficacy differ from other alcohols. It has been shown to be more effective especially against lipophilic viruses. Most effective at 60-70% concentration. However, its skin irritation potential is slightly higher than ethanol. In hospital disinfectants, it is usually combined with other alcohols.

Does N-Propanol damage plastics?

N-Propanol is moderately aggressive to most plastics. Polyethylene and polypropylene are resistant to short-term contact but should be avoided for long-term exposure. It may cause swelling or dissolution effects in plastics such as PVC and polystyrene.

What is the shelf life of N-Propanol?

When stored properly in closed containers, N-Propanol has a shelf life of approximately 2 years. It should be tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and protected from humidity. Stability testing is recommended before long-term storage.

What should I do if N-Propanol contacts skin?

Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash with plenty of water and soap. Prolonged contact can cause dryness and irritation to the skin. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. In case of eye contact, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult an eye doctor.