PELARGONIC ACID
PELARGONIC ACID
Pelargonic acid is a naturally occurring nine-carbon saturated fatty acid that is nearly insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents.
Pelargonic acid is widely used as an herbicide, where it strips the plant’s waxy cuticle, leading to cell disruption, leakage, and desiccation.
Pelargonic acid is also utilized in industrial applications, including lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, and synthetic esters for flavoring and cosmetic formulations.
CAS Number: 112-05-0
EC Number: 203-931-2
Chemical Formula: C9H18O2
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
Synonyms: NONANOIC ACID, Pelargonic acid, 112-05-0, n-Nonanoic acid, Nonoic acid, Nonylic acid, Pelargic acid, n-Nonylic acid, n-Nonoic acid, 1-Octanecarboxylic acid, Pelargon, Nonanoate, Cirrasol 185A, Hexacid C-9, Emfac 1202, 1-nonanoic acid, Fatty acids, C8-10, Nonansaeure, Pelargonsaeure, pergonic acid, Fatty acids, C6-12, 68937-75-7, MFCD00004433, nonoate, NSC 62787, Nonanoic Acid Anion, UNII-97SEH7577T, CHEBI:29019, CH3-[CH2]7-COOH, 97SEH7577T, pergonate, n-nonanoate, 1-nonanoate, C9:0, octan-1 carboxylic acid, 1-octanecarboxylate, DSSTox_CID_1641, DSSTox_RID_76255, DSSTox_GSID_21641, Pelargon [Russian], 1-Octanecarboxyic acid, CAS-112-05-0, FEMA No. 2784, HSDB 5554, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 217500, BRN 1752351, n-Pelargonate, AI3-04164, n-Nonylate, n-Nonoate, n-pelargonic acid, KNA, EINECS 273-086-2, Acid C9, Caprylic-Capric Acid, Nonanoic acid, 96%, 3sz1, Caprylic / capric acid, Emery’s L-114, Pelargonic Acid 1202, Emery 1202, Emery 1203, octane-1-carboxylic acid, Nonanoic acid, >=97%, bmse000499, EC 203-931-2, EC 273-086-2, Caprylic-Capric Acid 658, WLN: QV8, NCIOpen2_000142, NCIOpen2_000179, NCIOpen2_001763, NCIOpen2_002882, NCIOpen2_003483, SCHEMBL21966, Emery 1202 (Salt/Mix), 4-02-00-01018 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), MLS001066339, CHEMBL108436, Nonanoic acid, >=96%, FG, QSPL 030, DTXSID3021641, HMS2269L08, Nonanoic acid, analytical standard, HY-N7057, Nonanoic acid, natural, 98%, FG, NSC62787, ZINC1529234, Tox21_202426, Tox21_300022, BBL027459, BDBM50556776, LMFA01010009, NSC-62787, s4949, STL372710, AKOS000118981, NONANOIC ACID MFC9 H18 O2, CCG-231471, MCULE-4736597375, NCGC00164328-01, NCGC00164328-02, NCGC00164328-03, NCGC00253958-01, NCGC00259975-01, BP-27910, SMR000112203, VS-08541, CS-0076036, FT-0660055, N0288, P0952, C01601, A802476, Q369777, Q-201488, F0001-2447, Z1258948135, F57B4D17-8824-403B-AE1B-FA425608BB39
Pelargonic acid is nearly insoluble in water, but very soluble in organic solvents.
The esters and salts of pelargonic acid are called pelargonates or nonanoates.
Pelargonic acid is named after the pelargonium plant, since oil from its leaves contains esters of the acid.
Pelargonic acid is a naturally-occurring saturated fatty acid with nine carbon atoms.
The ammonium salt form of Pelargonic acid is used as an herbicide.
Pelargonic acid works by stripping the waxy cuticle of the plant, causing cell disruption, cell leakage, and death by desiccation.
Pelargonic acid is a C9 straight-chain saturated fatty acid which occurs naturally as esters of the oil of pelargonium.
Pelargonic acid has a role as an antifeedant, a plant metabolite, a Daphnia magna metabolite and an algal metabolite.
Pelargonic acid is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid and a medium-chain fatty acid.
Pelargonic acid is a conjugate acid of a nonanoate.
Pelargonic acid derives from a hydride of a nonane.
Pelargonic acid is a natural product found in Staphisagria macrosperma, Rhododendron mucronulatum, and other organisms with data available.
Pelargonic acid is a monocarboxylic fatty acid with a variety of applications across several industries.
Pelargonic acid is a long-chain fatty acid with a chemical structure of CH3(CH2)7COOH.
Though Pelargonic acid is naturally occurring in many fruits, vegetables and meat and dairy products, the chemical was originally derived by extracting esters from the naturally-occurring oil of pelargonium plants, resulting in the name.
Today, Pelargonic acid is produced using a variety of methods, bringing pelargonic acid prices to a sustainable level
Pelargonic acid, a naturally found in a variety of plants and food products is a cosmetic ingredient, that function as skin-conditioning agent.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved pelargonic acid as a food additive, and as an ingredient in solutions used commercially to peel fruits and vegetables.
FDA considers it safe for humans to eat food containing small amounts of pelargonic acid.
Pelargonic acid is a naturally-occurring saturated fatty acid with nine carbon atoms.
Pelargonic acid significantly reduces bacterial translocation, enhances antibacterial activity, and remarkably increases the secretion of porcine β-defensins 1 (pBD-1) and pBD-2.
Pelargonic acid is a product of natural origin, the active ingredient is a saturated fatty acid, whose aliphatic chain is 9 carbon atoms.
Pelargonic acid is a substance extracted through physical methods from mainly plant sources: brassicaceae, sunflower seeds and cardoon.
Pelargonic acid can also be of animal origin, the sources of extraction can be different, for example, whale fat.
The most well-known field of the use of pelargonic acid is that of weeding, both agricultural and extra-agricultural.
Pelargonic acid is a carboxylic acid chemical that is found in nature.
Pelargonic acid can be found in the form of esters in the oil of pelargonium.
Pelargonic acid is a nine-carbon fatty acid and an organic molecule with the structural formula CH3(CH2)7CO2H.
Pelargonic acid is a nine-carbon saturated fatty acid that occurs naturally.
Pelargonic acid acts by removing the plant’s waxy cuticle, producing cell disruption, cell leakage, and desiccation death.
Pelargonic acid is an oily, colorless liquid with a rotten odor.
In water,Pelargonic acid is practically insoluble, but it’s extremely soluble in organic solvents.
Pelargonic acid is frequently used in combination with glyphosate, a non-selective herbicide, to achieve a fast burn-down effect in the suppression of weeds in turfgrass.
Pelargonic acid is also an effective antifungal agent, inhibiting pathogenic fungi’s spore germination and mycelial growth.
Flavorings can be made from Pelargonic acid’s synthetic esters, such as methyl nonanoate.
Pelargonic acid is a fatty acid which occurs naturally as esters is the oil of pelargonium.
Synthetic esters, such as methyl nonanoate, are used as flavorings.
Pelargonic acid is an organic compound composed of a nine-carbon chain terminating in a carboxylic acid.
Pelargonic acid is an oily liquid with an unpleasant, rancid odor.
Pelargonic acid is nearly insoluble in water, but well soluble in chloroform and ether.
The derivative 4-nonanoylmorpholine is an ingredient in some pepper sprays.
Pelargonic acid derives unique performance characteristics from its odd-chain length – providing definite advantages in many quality and performance sensitive applications over other short-chain fatty acids.
Potential differentiations include significantly different solubility characteristics, lower-temperature fluidity and low melting points.
The sodium and potassium salts of Pelargonic acid are very soluble in water but are insoluble in most organic solvents.
Most other metal salts are insoluble in water.
Amine salts and condensates prepared by reacting pelargonic acid with low molecular weight amines such as monoethanolamine or isopropanolamine are characterized with good water solubility.
These chemistries provide a multitude of potential benefits including improved corrosion inhibition and lower foaming characteristics.
The linear, highly saturated and odd-carbon structure of pelargonic acid makes it particularly suitable as the major acid component in TMP (trimethylolpropane), PE (pentaerythritol) and NPG (neopentyl glycol) polyol esters for lubricant base stocks.
These classic polyol structures dominate jet engine lubricant technology and are becoming more important in synthetic lubricants for industrial and land transportation applications.
Pelargonic acid is a monocarboxylic acid.
The product appears as a transparent and colourless liquid, and is available in different purity grades.
Pelargonic acid, thanks to its favourable ecotoxicological profile, is used in the formulations of new herbicides, replacing existing synthetic ones.
The non persistence and ultimate biodegradability of natural pelargonic acid herbicides means that their impact on the environment is minimal.
They do not interfere with biodiversity and have no residual effects and can be used for soil cleaning even immediately before sowing or transplanting.
Pelargonic acid is also used in cleaning products as a precursor to peroxynonanoic acid.
Pelargonic acid are known for their antimicrobial activity (sanitisation, disinfection and sterilisation) and as bleaching agents.
Pelargonic acid has thus found a further destination in industrial detergents, water treatments and the control of microbial activity in public spaces.
Some esters of pelargonic acid are used as intermediates in the synthesis of biolubricants and emollients for the cosmetics industry.
Applications of Pelargonic Acid:
Pelargonic acid is used in the preparation of plasticizers and lacquers.
Pelargonic acid is commonly used in conjunction with glyphosate, for a quick burn-down effect in the control of weeds in turfgrass.
Pelargonic acid is naturally occurs as an ester in oil of pelargonium.
Pelargonic acid is used in lacquers, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and in esters for turbojet lubricants.
Pelargonic acid is also used as a flavor and fragrance, flotation agent, gasoline additive, herbicide, blossom thinner for apple and pear trees, sanitizer, and to peel fruits and vegetables.
Pelargonic acid is used to make peroxides and greases, as a catalyst for alkyd resins, in insect attractants, and as a topical bactericide and fungicide medication.
Occurrence and Uses of Pelargonic Acid:
Pelargonic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid with the chemical formula C9H18O2.
Pelargonic acid is widely used in various industries due to its antimicrobial, herbicidal, and surfactant properties.
In agriculture, pelargonic acid is an effective contact herbicide, often used for weed control in organic farming as it rapidly breaks down in the environment.
Pelargonic acid is also utilized in the production of plasticizers, lubricants, and coatings, enhancing the flexibility and durability of polymers.
Additionally, pelargonic acid plays a role in the fragrance and flavor industry, contributing to fruity and waxy notes in perfumes and food additives.
In the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors, Pelargonic acid is incorporated into antimicrobial formulations, skincare products, and acne treatments due to its antibacterial properties.
With its versatility and biodegradable nature, pelargonic acid is a valuable compound in both industrial and consumer applications.
Pelargonic acid occurs naturally as esters in the oil of pelargonium.
Synthetic esters of pelargonic acid, such as methyl pelargonate, are used as flavorings.
Pelargonic acid is also used in the preparation of plasticizers and lacquers.
The derivative 4-nonanoylmorpholine is an ingredient in some pepper sprays.
The ammonium salt of pelargonic acid, ammonium pelargonate, is a herbicide.
Pelargonic acid is commonly used in conjunction with glyphosate, a non-selective herbicide, for a quick burn-down effect in the control of weeds in turfgrass.
The methyl form and ethylene glycol pelargonate act as nematicides against Meloidogyne javanica on Solanum lycopersicum, and the methyl against Heterodera glycines and M. incognita on Glycine max.
Esters of pelargonic acid are precursors to lubricants.
Pelargonic acid has a wide range of uses across different industries:
Agriculture & Herbicides:
Pelargonic acid is used as a contact herbicide for weed control, especially in organic farming.
Pelargonic acid acts as a plant growth regulator in some agricultural applications.
Industrial Applications:
Pelargonic acid is used in the manufacture of lubricants and plasticizers, improving the flexibility of polymers.
Pelargonic acid serves as a key ingredient in coatings and corrosion inhibitors for metals.
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics:
Pelargonic acid found in antimicrobial and antifungal formulations for treating skin conditions.
Pelargonic acid is used in acne treatments and skincare products due to its antibacterial properties.
Food & Fragrance Industry:
Pelargonic acid provides fruity, waxy notes in perfumes, cosmetics, and food flavorings.
Functions as a preservative in some food and cosmetic products.
Fuel & Energy Sector:
Utilized in the production of biofuels and lubricants for renewable energy applications.
Benefits of Pelargonic Acid:
Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable:
Naturally breaks down in the environment, reducing long-term pollution.
Considered a safer alternative to synthetic herbicides and chemicals.
Effective Herbicide for Organic Farming:
Works as a contact herbicide that quickly kills weeds without leaving harmful residues.
Approved for organic farming, making it a sustainable agricultural solution.
Industrial Versatility:
Pelargonic acid is used in lubricants, plasticizers, and coatings, improving durability and flexibility.
Plays a role in biofuels, supporting renewable energy solutions.
Health & Cosmetic Benefits:
Has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it useful in skincare and acne treatments.
Found in fragrances, personal care products, and food additives due to Pelargonic acid’s mild and natural properties.
Safe & Low Toxicity:
Compared to many synthetic chemicals, pelargonic acid has low toxicity for humans and animals when used appropriately.
Less harmful to soil and water systems than conventional chemical herbicides.
Pharmacological Efects of Pelargonic Acid:
Pelargonic acid may be more potent than valproic acid in treating seizures.
Moreover, in contrast to valproic acid, pelargonic acid exhibited no effect on HDAC inhibition, suggesting that it is unlikely to show HDAC inhibition-related teratogenicity.
Manufacturing of Pelargonic Acid:
Pelargonic acid is primarily manufactured through the oxidative cleavage of oleic acid, a fatty acid commonly found in vegetable oils such as sunflower and soybean oil.
This process, often carried out using ozonolysis or hydrogen peroxide oxidation, breaks down oleic acid into pelargonic acid and azelaic acid as byproducts.
Another emerging method involves bio-based fermentation, where microorganisms convert renewable feedstocks into pelargonic acid, offering a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative.
Additionally, Pelargonic acid can be derived from natural sources such as geranium plants (Pelargonium species) and animal fats.
Due to its biodegradable nature and wide industrial applications, pelargonic acid production has gained importance in agriculture, cosmetics, and biofuels, supporting both commercial and environmental sustainability.
History of Pelargonic Acid:
Pelargonic acid has been recognized for its natural occurrence and versatile applications for centuries.
Pelargonic acid was first identified in the early 19th century as a component of plant and animal fats.
The name “pelargonic” comes from Pelargonium species (geraniums), where it was first discovered.
Over time, researchers explored its chemical properties, leading to its use in organic synthesis, lubricants, and coatings.
In agriculture, its herbicidal properties gained attention as a natural alternative to synthetic weed killers, making it popular in organic farming.
By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, pelargonic acid became widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels due to its biodegradability and low toxicity.
Today, Pelargonic acid continues to be an important compound in both industrial and consumer applications, valued for its eco-friendly nature and multifunctional properties.
Handling and Storage of Pelargonic Acid:
Handling:
Use in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling vapors.
Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin and eye contact.
Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides, chlorine).
Use proper chemical-resistant containers when transferring.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
Avoid exposure to moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
Store away from strong bases, oxidizers, and ignition sources.
Stability and Reactivity of Pelargonic Acid:
Stability:
Stable under normal conditions when stored properly.
May degrade if exposed to heat, moisture, or oxidizing agents.
Reactivity:
Reacts with strong oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides, nitric acid).
Can react with strong bases to form nonanoate salts.
Thermal decomposition may produce irritating or toxic fumes (CO, CO₂, and other organic compounds).
First Aid Measures of Pelargonic Acid:
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air immediately.
If breathing is difficult, provide oxygen and seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Wash with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Eye Contact:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
DO NOT induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth with water and drink plenty of water.
Seek medical attention immediately.
Firefighting Measures of Pelargonic Acid:
Fire Hazards:
Pelargonic acid is combustible but not highly flammable.
Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air at high temperatures.
Extinguishing Media:
Use carbon dioxide (CO₂), dry chemical powder, foam, or water spray.
Avoid using a direct water stream, as Pelargonic acid may cause the fire to spread.
Firefighting Instructions:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.
Cool surrounding containers with water spray to prevent overheating.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
May produce carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and organic vapors when burned.
Accidental Release Measures of Pelargonic Acid:
Personal Precautions:
Evacuate the area and ensure proper ventilation.
Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator if necessary.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent spills from reaching drains, soil, or waterways.
Use sand, earth, or other absorbent materials to contain spills.
Cleanup Methods:
Small spills:
Absorb with inert material (sand, earth, vermiculite) and place in a chemical waste container.
Large spills:
Dike the area and collect the material using pumps or absorbents.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of Pelargonic Acid:
Exposure Limits:
No specific PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) or TLV (Threshold Limit Value) set, but exposure should be minimized.
Engineering Controls:
Use local exhaust ventilation to control vapor exposure.
Ensure workspaces have eyewash stations and safety showers.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Respiratory Protection:
Use an approved respirator (NIOSH-certified) if vapor concentrations are high.
Hand Protection:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile, neoprene).
Eye Protection:
Wear safety goggles or a face shield.
Skin Protection:
Wear long-sleeved clothing and chemical-resistant aprons.
Identifiers of Pelargonic Acid:
CAS: 112-05-0
Molecular Formula: C9H18O2
Molecular Weight (g/mol): 158.24
Specifications of Pelargonic acid
CAS Max %: 100.0
Color: Colorless
Boiling Point: 254.0°C
Assay Percent Range: 96% min. (GC)
Infrared Spectrum: Authentic
Refractive Index: 1.4299 to 1.4339
Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
CAS Number: 112-05-0
EC Number: 203-931-2
PubChem CID: 8157
UNII (FDA): GFD4YH4D9U
InChI Key: GYHFUZHODSMOHU-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES Representation: O=C(O)CCCCCCCC
CAS Number: 112-05-0
EC Number (EINECS): 203-931-2
PubChem CID: 8157
ChemSpider ID: 7867
UNII (FDA): GFD4YH4D9U
Beilstein Reference: 1750514
Gmelin Number: 219057
RTECS Number: RG2275000
InChI: InChI=1S/C9H18O2/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9(10)11/h2-8H2,1H3,(H,10,11)
InChI Key: GYHFUZHODSMOHU-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: O=C(O)CCCCCCCC
Properties of Pelargonic Acid:
Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
Density: 0.904 g/cm³
Melting Point: ~12.5°C
Boiling Point: ~254°C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, highly soluble in organic solvents (ethanol, ether, chloroform)
Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
Density: 0.904 g/cm³ at 25°C
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow oily liquid
Odor: Mild, rancid, fatty odor
Melting Point: ~12.5°C (54.5°F)
Boiling Point: ~254°C (489°F)
Flash Point: ~112°C (233°F) (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: ~365°C (689°F)
Molecular Weight: 158.24
Density: 0.9000g/mL
Melting Point: 12.5°C
Flash Point: 114°C
Boiling Point: 254 °C
Flash Point: 100.00 °C
XLogP3: 3.5
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 1
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 2
Rotatable Bond Count: 7
Exact Mass: 158.130679813
Monoisotopic Mass: 158.130679813
Topological Polar Surface Are: 37.3 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 11
Complexity: 99.7
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Specifications of Pelargonic Acid:
Moisture Content: ≤ 0.2%
Residue After Evaporation: ≤ 0.05%
Peroxide Value: ≤ 10 meq/kg
Heavy Metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As): ≤ 10 ppm
Names of Pelargonic Acid:
Regulatory process names:
Nonanoic acid
Nonanoic acid
nonanoic acid
Nonanoic acid, Pelargonic acid
Pelargonic Acid
Pelargonic acid
pelargonic acid
Translated names:
acid nonanoic (ro)
Acid nonanoic, acid pelargonic (ro)
acide nonanoique (fr)
Acide nonanoïque, acide pélargonique (fr)
acido nonanoico (it)
Acido nonanoico, acido pelargonico (it)
Aċidu nonanoiku, Aċidu pelargoniku (mt)
kwas nonanowy kwas pelargonowy (pl)
Kwas nonanowy, kwas pelargonowy (pl)
Kyselina nonanová, kyselina pelargonová (cs)
kyselina nonánová (sk)
Kyselina nonánová (kyselina pelargónová) (sk)
Nonaanhape (et)
Nonaanhape, pelargoonhape (et)
Nonaanihappo (fi)
Nonaanihappo (pelargonihappo) (fi)
nonaanzuur (nl)
Nonaanzuur, pelar-goonzuur (nl)
nonano rūgštis (lt)
Nonano rūgštis, pelargono rūgštis (lt)
Nonanoic acid, Pelargonic acid (no)
nonanojska kislina (sl)
Nonanojska kislina, pelargonska kislina (sl)
nonanonska kiselina (hr)
nonanová kyselina (cs)
Nonanska kiselina, pelargonična kiselina (hr)
nonansyra (sv)
Nonansyra, pelargonsyra (sv)
nonansyre (da)
nonansyre (no)
Nonansyre og pelargonsyre (da)
Nonansäure (de)
Nonansäure, Pelargonsäure (de)
nonánsav (hu)
Nonánsav, pelargonsav (hu)
Nonānskābe (lv)
nonānskābe (lv)
ácido nonanoico (es)
Ácido nonanoico, ácido pelargónico (es)
ácido nonanóico (pt)
Ácido nonanóico, Ácido pelargónico (pt)
Εννεανικό οξύ (πελαργονικό οξύ) (el)
εννεανοϊκό οξύ (el)
нонанова киселина (bg)
Нонанова киселина, пеларгонова киселина (bg)
IUPAC names:
Acid C9, Pelargonic acid
NONANOIC ACID
Nonanoic Acid
Nonanoic acid
nonanoic acid
nonanová kyselina
Nonansäure
Pelargonic acid
Pelargonic and realted fatty acids
Trade names:
Acido Pelargónico
Pelargonic acid
Prifrac 2913
Prifrac 2914
Prifrac 2915
Other identifiers:
112-05-0
607-197-00-8