Neodecanoic acid

Description

Neodecanoic acid is used primarily as an intermediate to make other chemical products. For example, a metal salt of neodecanoic acid can be used in various applications, such as paint driers, polyvinylchloride stabilizers, or polymerization initiators. Ester derivatives of neodecanoic acid are used in surface coatings and cement additives. In its neutralized form, neodecanoic acid is used in metalworking fluids. Neodecanoic acid is a liquid with a relatively low vapor pressure; however, elevated temperatures and mechanical action may form vapors, mist, or fumes. The material should be handled only with adequate ventilation and in areas where ignition sources have been removed (e.g., open flames, static electricity sources, unprotected light switches).

Chemical properties

Clear, colorless liquid in 97% purity; available commercially.

The Uses of Neodecanoic acid

2,2,3,5-Tetramethylhexanoic Acid is used in analytical studies as a method to quantitatively determine the total organic acid content in aqueous coolant.

Definition

Its derivatives are especially effective as paint driers and are being widely used. Applications as plasticizers and lubricants are also possible.

General Description

Colorless liquid.

Air & Water Reactions

Dust explosion is possible [USCG, 1999]. Water insoluble.

Reactivity Profile

Neodecanoic acid is a carboxylic acid. Carboxylic acids donate hydrogen ions if a base is present to accept them. They react in this way with all bases, both organic (for example, the amines) and inorganic. Their reactions with bases, called "neutralizations", are accompanied by the evolution of substantial amounts of heat. Neutralization between an acid and a base produces water plus a salt. Carboxylic acids in aqueous solution and liquid or molten carboxylic acids can react with active metals to form gaseous hydrogen and a metal salt. Such reactions occur in principle for solid carboxylic acids as well, but are slow if the solid acid remains dry. Even "insoluble" carboxylic acids may absorb enough water from the air and dissolve sufficiently in Neodecanoic acid to corrode or dissolve iron, steel, and aluminum parts and containers. Carboxylic acids, like other acids, react with cyanide salts to generate gaseous hydrogen cyanide. The reaction is slower for dry, solid carboxylic acids. Insoluble carboxylic acids react with solutions of cyanides to cause the release of gaseous hydrogen cyanide. Flammable and/or toxic gases and heat are generated by the reaction of carboxylic acids with diazo compounds, dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrides, and sulfides. Carboxylic acids, especially in aqueous solution, also react with sulfites, nitrites, thiosulfates (to give H2S and SO3), dithionites (SO2), to generate flammable and/or toxic gases and heat. Their reaction with carbonates and bicarbonates generates a harmless gas (carbon dioxide) but still heat. Like other organic compounds, carboxylic acids can be oxidized by strong oxidizing agents and reduced by strong reducing agents. These reactions generate heat. A wide variety of products is possible. Like other acids, carboxylic acids may initiate polymerization reactions; like other acids, they often catalyze (increase the rate of) chemical reactions.

Health Hazard

Irritating to eyes and respiratory tract in high concentrations. May cause hair disorder or damage.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Flammable toxic gas may be released, if thermally decomposed.

Flammability and Explosibility

Flammable

Toxicology

Neodecanoic Acid has been adequately studied and is generally recognized to have low acute toxicity if ingested and/or breathed. Concentrations (above 25mg/m3 ) in the air can cause eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation in humans. It is not regarded as a mutagen, a carcinogen, or a concern for reproductive, developmental, or nervous system toxic effects.