1-pentanol
Description
1-Pentanol (CAS 71-41-0), also known as primary amyl alcohol, is a straight-chain aliphatic alcohol used as a solvent, chemical intermediate, and flavoring agent across food, cosmetic, and polymer industries.
FEMA 2056 status confirms its recognized use in flavor applications. Its moderate chain length positions it between short-chain and fatty alcohols, making it useful where both solvency and mild odor character are required.
In flavor formulations, 1-pentanol contributes a mild, fusel-like note and functions as a carrier or co-solvent for flavor concentrates in food and beverage products.
Polymer manufacturers use it as a reactive intermediate in the synthesis of plasticizers and esters, particularly amyl acrylate and amyl acetate. In personal care, it acts as a solvent and viscosity modifier.
It is utilized in emulsions and fragrance bases where a light, non-greasy carrier is needed. It also serves as a process solvent in pharmaceutical and specialty chemical synthesis.
This material is operationally relevant where controlled polarity and low water miscibility are required. 1-Pentanol is supplied as a clear liquid in drums and IBC containers.
Food-grade material meeting FCC specifications is available for flavor and fragrance applications, while technical-grade product serves industrial solvent and synthesis uses.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -79 °C |
| Boiling Point | 137.5 °C |
| Density | 0.8146 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 120 °F |
| Appearance | Amyl alcohols (pentanols) have eight isomers. All are flammable, colorless liquids, except the isomer 2,2- dimethyl-1-propanol, which is a crystalline solid. |
| Color | APHA: ≤30 |
| Odor | Pleasant 0.1 ppm |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 22 g/L (22 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 1 mm Hg ( 13.6 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.409(lit.) |
| pH | 7 (20°C, 22g/L) |
| Log P | 1.51 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29051990 |
| UN Number | 1105 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
primary amyl alcohol|pentyl alcohol|pentanol-1|n-pentyl alcohol|n-pentanol|n-pentan-1-ol|n-C5H11OH|n-butylcarbinol
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