Understanding 1-Nonanethiol: Material, Properties, Structure, and Specifications

What is 1-Nonanethiol?

1-Nonanethiol stands out as a chemical compound with the molecular formula C₉H₂₀S. Chemists recognize its unique sulfur content, and its structure places a thiol group at the end of a nine-carbon straight chain. It gives off a noticeable, strong odor—a trait similar to many organosulfur chemicals. People working with raw materials immediately notice the characteristic scent, sometimes described as “skunky” or “garlic-like,” which always reminds me of how even small amounts of sulfur-containing molecules can completely change a laboratory’s atmosphere. Producers sell it as a colorless, oily liquid, and the density sits close to 0.85 g/cm³ at room temperature. It does not occur naturally in bulk, but it serves a specific niche for those dealing with organic synthesis and research on surfactants, and occasionally as an intermediate for specialized material science applications.

Molecular Structure and Physical Appearance

1-Nonanethiol’s physical structure follows a simple alkyl chain design: a straight line of nine carbons topped with a terminal sulfhydryl (-SH) group. The full chemical makeup—C₉H₂₀S—puts it into the category of alkanethiols, with a molecular weight of around 160.32 g/mol. In practice, it appears as a clear, slightly viscous liquid. I remember handling small glass vials in the lab; as soon as the container opened, the scent lingers, a stark warning to keep it well-sealed. Unlike some substances that might show up as powders, pearls, flakes, or solids, 1-Nonanethiol sticks with its liquid form, moving smoothly like oil rather than anything crystalline or granular.

Specifications and Material Information

Users purchasing 1-Nonanethiol expect clear, specific metrics. Assays for chemical purity commonly exceed 98%, although contamination with related thiols or nonanethiol homologues sometimes pops up. That makes attention to sourcing and certification a matter of practical wisdom in the trade. Its boiling point arrives near 215°C, and melting happens well below room temperature—most samples never freeze in lab storage. Solubility in water ranks extremely low, but it mixes efficiently with most organic solvents. HS Code for import and customs identification officially rests at 2930.90, under organosulfur compounds. Handling larger volumes, such as in steel drums or liter bottles, means factoring in both the persistent odor and long-term chemical stability.

Chemical Properties and Behavior

1-Nonanethiol behaves much like its smaller thiol relatives, readily forming bonds with metals and participating in alkylation reactions. I’ve watched how its -SH group strongly attaches to gold surfaces—researchers in nanotechnology often use it to build modified sensor coatings or self-assembled monolayers. The strong affinity with metal applies not only to pure research but to probing corrosion protection and certain lubricants. One key note: the compound reacts with oxidizing agents and should stay far from strong bases or sources of ignition. Packing and transport guidelines mark the raw material as flammable and potentially harmful—one whiff is enough to provoke warnings on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Safe Handling, Hazards, and Environmental Considerations

People who regularly work with 1-Nonanethiol recognize the chemical’s hazards. Prolonged inhalation irritates the respiratory tract, and skin contact without gloves leads to quick absorption of the pungent scent, requiring thorough washing to remove. Standard laboratory ventilation and eye protection count as everyday gear for handling this material. I learned the hard way that ordinary soap barely takes away the odor from hands or glassware, and proper fume hoods save everyone’s comfort and safety. Chemical spill response always leans on containment—absorbent materials and plenty of fresh air mitigate minor leaks. Waste disposal sticks with established protocols for organosulfur chemicals, which don’t blend easily into regular wastewater or landfill streams. Long-term, improper handling risks persistent odors, possible harm to aquatic environments, and fire if vapors accumulate around ignition sources.

Applications, Demand, and Raw Material Importance

Markets for 1-Nonanethiol run narrow but important: it supports syntheses where chemists need hydrophobic thiols. Research uses focus on modifying gold nanostructures, sometimes for drug delivery investigation or biosensor tests, and occasionally in surface chemistry for testing anti-fouling coatings. Industrial use doesn’t reach the scale of simpler thiols or large-volume solvents, but specialty applications keep a reliable demand. Sourcing raw materials with guaranteed quality ensures chemical reliability, because impurities directly impact both safety and technical outcomes. Producers and suppliers must track changes in global supply chains, especially since production depends on both hydrocarbon and sulfur feedstocks. Regulations naming 1-Nonanethiol as hazardous mean workplaces and transit firms handle it with clear labeling, secondary containment, and tight safety records.

Meeting Safety and Efficiency: Solutions and Best Practices

Everyday work with thiols teaches respect for safe storage, handling technique, and communication about hazards. Training labs and warehouse staff to identify and clean up spills immediately makes a noticeable difference. Proper container labeling and air-tight seals minimize losses and accidental exposure. Investing in air extraction systems reduces risks from repeated exposure, especially in smaller or older facilities. Upstream, chemical manufacturers could invest more in closed-loop production or alternative synthesis routes that reduce emissions and waste byproducts. Downstream, encouraging regular audits of safety protocols and transparent reporting of incidents builds trust between suppliers and end users. As someone who has handled hundreds of chemicals, small changes like these keep people healthy, maintain high product purity, and ensure the safe use of valuable raw materials like 1-Nonanethiol.