2-butyl-1-octanol

2-Butyl-1-octanol (CAS 3913-02-8), also known commercially as isododecyl alcohol, is a branched-chain fatty alcohol used as a functional intermediate and carrier.

Where is 2-butyl-1-octanol used?

• Lubricants and metalworking fluids: base for synthesizing ester-based lubricants
• Carrier for extreme-pressure additives
• Personal care: emollient carrier and co-emulsifier in skin creams, sunscreens and color cosmetics
• Plastics: plasticizer intermediate reacted with phthalic or adipic acid anhydrides for flexible PVC compounds and polymer coatings
• Industrial coatings: solvent carrier
• Adhesive formulations utilize this chemical where controlled evaporation and substrate wetting are critical.

Good to know: Its branched structure resists crystallization at low temperatures, affecting processability and shelf stability. Buyers should confirm hydroxyl value and low-temperature behavior specifications when sourcing for ester synthesis.

Commercial specifications

• Purity typically 99% minimum