pentan1ol

Pentan-1-ol, also known as 1-pentanol or n-pentanol, is an aliphatic primary alcohol with the formula C5H12O (CH3(CH2)4OH). It is a colorless, flammable liquid used as a solvent and as a chemical intermediate. Common synonyms include amyl alcohol and pentyl alcohol.

Pentan-1-ol has a boiling point of about 137 °C and a melting point near -78 °C. Its density is approximately 0.83 g/mL at 20 °C. It is poorly soluble in water but dissolves in many organic solvents such as ethers, alcohols, and chlorinated solvents. It is typically stored and handled under standard flammable-liquid precautions.

As a primary alcohol, pentan-1-ol participates in typical alcohol reactions. It can be oxidized to pentanal (valeraldehyde) and further to pentanoic acid. It forms esters in reactions with carboxylic acids or acyl chlorides and can participate in etherification under dehydrating conditions.

Occurrence and production: Small amounts occur naturally in fusel oil, obtained from the fermentation of carbohydrates. Industrial production commonly involves hydrogenation of valeraldehyde or hydroformylation of 1-butene to valeraldehyde followed by reduction to 1-pentanol.

Applications and safety: The principal use is as a solvent for coatings, waxes, and extraction processes, and as a versatile intermediate in the synthesis of esters used in flavors and fragrances. Pentan-1-ol is flammable and should be used with adequate ventilation and appropriate personal protective equipment. Exposure can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and higher concentrations may affect the central nervous system.