Isononyl alcohol

Isononyl alcohol (CAS 27458-94-2), also known as Isononanol, is a branched-chain fatty alcohol used as a chemical intermediate and functional solvent across multiple industrial sectors. Its primary commercial role is as a precursor in plasticizer synthesis and as a processing solvent where controlled solvency and low volatility are required for manufacturing.

The largest volume use is in the production of diisononyl phthalate (DINP) and other phthalate-free plasticizers, which are compounded into flexible PVC for cables and flooring. In coatings and printing inks, it functions as a slow-evaporating solvent that aids film formation and reduces viscosity without compromising adhesion or final product quality.

Adhesive and sealant formulators incorporate it as a reactive diluent or processing aid to improve workability and substrate wetting during the application process. Personal care manufacturers use it as an emollient carrier in skin-conditioning formulations where a lightweight, non-greasy skin feel is required for the end consumer.

Isononyl alcohol is supplied as a clear liquid in drum, IBC, and bulk tanker quantities. Technical grade is the standard commercial specification, with purity typically at 99% or above. Food-contact and cosmetic-grade material is available from select producers where downstream application compliance requires tighter quality documentation and safety standards.