N-Propanol (also known as Normal Propyl Alcohol or 1-Propanol) is a straight-chain alcohol with the chemical formula C₃H₇OH. It is one of the propyl alcohol isomers, along with isopropanol (2-propanol), but it has a linear structure, meaning the hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to the first carbon of the chain. N-Propanol is a colorless, flammable liquid with a slightly fruity odor. It is used primarily as a solvent and chemical intermediate, and it has a wide variety of industrial and commercial applications.
Properties of N-Propanol:
- Molecular Formula: C₃H₇OH
- IUPAC Name: Propan-1-ol
- Boiling Point: 97.2°C (207°F)
- Melting Point: -127.7°C (-196°F)
- Density: 0.803 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Flash Point: 23.8°C (75°F) – flammable
- Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, chloroform, and ether. Partially soluble in benzene and toluene.
Key Uses of N-Propanol:
Solvent:
N-Propanol is widely used as a solvent in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cleaning solutions, and paint removers. It is used to dissolve a wide range of substances like resins, gums, oils, and lacquers.
Chemical Intermediate:
N-Propanol is used in the production of propyl esters (such as propyl acetate), which are widely used in solvents and paints.
Pharmaceuticals:
It is used in medications, topical solutions, cough syrups, and oral preparations as a carrier solvent. N-Propanol is also used in disinfectants and antiseptic formulations.
Cleaning Agent:
N-Propanol is used in industrial cleaning (as a degreaser) and in sterilizing equipment in medical and laboratory settings.
Fuel Additive:
N-Propanol can be used as an oxygenate in gasoline to improve the octane number and reduce engine knocking.
Personal Care:
N-Propanol is a component in the formulation of hand sanitizers, deodorants, and cosmetic products due to its antimicrobial properties.