Quick Search
Neononanoic acid is a synthetic, branched-chain fatty acid with the molecular formula C₉H₁₈O₂, typically appearing as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild odor, produced by the oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) of C₈ olefins followed by oxidation.
Owing to its branched structure, Neononanoic acid exhibits low volatility, high thermal stability, and excellent solubility in organic systems, making it an important intermediate in the production of esters for synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, coatings, and corrosion inhibitors.
Neononanoic acid is also widely used in the manufacture of alkyd resins, metal carboxylates, PVC stabilizers, and cosmetic esters, where its balance of chemical stability, compatibility, and performance-enhancing properties ensures durability, resistance to hydrolysis, and long service life.
CAS Number: 3302-10-1
EC Number: 221-950-4
Molecular Formula: C9H18O2
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
Synonyms: ISONONANOIC ACID, 7-methyloctanoic acid, 26896-18-4, 693-19-6, Octanoic acid, 7-methyl-, Isononanoicacid, 7-methyl-octanoic acid, 7-methyl caprylic acid, tert-Nonanoic acid, Isononansaure, isononanic acid, iso-nonanoic acid, 7-Methyloctansaeure, 7-Methyl-octansaeure, 7-methylcaprylic acid, CeKanoic9, CeKanoic C9 acid, INA, ISO CK 9, Isononansäure, Isononylic acid, Isopelargonic acid, i-Nonansäure, 7-methyl caprylic acid, 7-methylcaprylic acid, isononanic acid, 7-methyl-octanoic acid, isononanoic acid, 7-METHYL OCTANOIC ACID, ISONONANOIC ACID, Methyloctanoicacid, Isononansaure, I-NONANOICACID, 7-methylcaprylic acid, 221-975-0 [EINECS], 248-092-3 [EINECS], 26896-18-4 [RN], 3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic acid [ACD/IUPAC Name], 3,5,5-Trimethylhexansäure [German] [ACD/IUPAC Name], 3302-10-1 [RN], 512-34-5 [RN], Acide 3,5,5-triméthylhexanoïque [French] [ACD/IUPAC Name], Hexanoic acid, 3,5,5-trimethyl- [ACD/Index Name], Isononanoic acid, Isononanoic-Acid, [3302-10-1], >95%, 01.10.3302, 3,5,5-TRIMETHYL HEXANOIC ACID, 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid, 97%, 3,5,5-TrimethylhexanoicAcid, Hexanoic acid,3,5,5-trimethyl-, 221-975-0 [EINECS], 248-092-3 [EINECS], 26896-18-4 [RN], 3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic acid [ACD/IUPAC Name], 3,5,5-Trimethylhexansäure [German] [ACD/IUPAC Name], 3302-10-1 [RN], 512-34-5 [RN], Acide 3,5,5-triméthylhexanoïque [French] [ACD/IUPAC Name], Hexanoic acid, 3,5,5-trimethyl- [ACD/Index Name], Isononanoic acid, Isononanoic-Acid, [3302-10-1], >95%, 01.10.3302, 3,5,5-TRIMETHYL HEXANOIC ACID, 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid, 97%, 3,5,5-TrimethylhexanoicAcid, Hexanoic acid,3,5,5-trimethyl-
Neononanoic acid is a synthetic, branched-chain fatty acid with the molecular formula C9H18O2, typically appearing as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild odor.
Neononanoic acid is produced primarily by the oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) of C8 olefins followed by oxidation, yielding a mixture rich in 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid.
Owing to its branched structure, Neononanoic acid exhibits low volatility, high thermal stability, and excellent solubility in many organic systems, making it a valuable intermediate in industrial chemistry.
Neononanoic acid is widely used in the manufacture of esters for synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, coatings, and corrosion inhibitors, as well as in alkyd resins and metal soaps for paints and adhesives.
Neononanoic acid's balance of chemical stability, compatibility, and performance-enhancing properties makes it an important building block in applications requiring durability, resistance to hydrolysis, and long service life.
Neononanoic acid is a mixture of isomers with a 3, 5, 5-trimethylhexanoic acid content of about 90%, and is obtained by oxidation of the corresponding isononyl aldehyde.
Neononanoic acid is miscible with the usual organic solvents.
Neononanoic acid is only sparingly soluble in water.
Under the background of slower economy growth rate, companies face the higher risks of profit decline.
Currently, Neononanoic acid market has a certain potential in Europe, USA and Japan.
These areas demand are relatively stable.
During these years, China's Neononanoic acid demand maintains a rapid growth
Despite the presence of competition problems, due to the global recovery trend is clear, investors are still optimistic about this area.
In the future, the market in developed countries will have some growth and the market in developing countries will have a faster growth rate.
In the globe, emerging economies countries support the lubricant industry and metal working fluids industry, Neononanoic acid will lead the increase of Neononanoic acid demand.
Therefore, we think entering China and India market will be a good choice.
Neononanoic acid esters are used as base stocks for synthetic lubricants and metalworking fluids, and as plasticizers.
Neononanoic acid salts are used as paint driers and as polyvinyl chloride stabilizers.
Neononanoic acid peroxides are used as polymerization catalysts.
Neononanoic acid is a mixture of isomers with a 3, 5, 5-trimethylhexanoic acid content of about 90%, and is obtained by oxidation of the corresponding isononyl aldehyde.
Neononanoic acid is miscible with the usual organic solvents.
Neononanoic acid is only sparingly soluble in water.
Neononanoic acid is a type of fatty acid with nine carbon atoms.
Neononanoic acid is also called pelargonic acid.
Neononanoic acid chemical formula is C9H18O2.
Neononanoic acid is obtained by oxidation of isononyl aldehyde.
Neononanoic acid is a mixture of isomers with 3, 5, 5-trimethyl hexanoic acid with weight percentage of about 90.
Neononanoic acid is a clear, colorless liquid with faint odor.
Neononanoic acid is miscible with organic solvents.
Neononanoic acid is only sparingly soluble in water.
The ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) classifies Neononanoic acid as a dangerous material in CPA classifications, as Neononanoic acid causes severe eye damage if exposed and causes skin irritation if swallowed.
Neononanoic acid is primarily applied as a plasticizer in cosmetics and personal care products.
Neononanoic acid is used as a skin conditioning agent, cleansing agent, and emulsifying agent in surfactant formulations.
Neononanoic acid is a branched-chain carboxylic acid with the formula C₉H₁₈O₂, most commonly represented by 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid, and is produced industrially through the oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) of C₈ olefins followed by oxidation.
Neononanoic acid typically appears as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild characteristic odor and demonstrates excellent thermal stability, low volatility, and high resistance to hydrolysis, properties that make it well-suited for demanding industrial applications.
Due to its branched structure, Neononanoic acid exhibits superior solubility in both nonpolar and polar organic media, ensuring broad compatibility with polymers, resins, and oils.
One of Neononanoic acid's most significant uses is in the production of esters, particularly isononanoates, which are key components in high-performance synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, coatings, and corrosion inhibitors, where they provide oxidative stability, long service life, and reduced volatility.
In the coatings and adhesives sector, Neononanoic acid is employed in the synthesis of alkyd resins, metal carboxylates (driers), and surface modifiers, improving durability, gloss retention, and weather resistance.
Neononanoic acid is also applied in the preparation of metal soaps used in paints, inks, and greases, as well as in the formulation of PVC stabilizers and specialty esters for cosmetics and personal care.
Thanks to Neononanoic acid's combination of chemical stability, performance-enhancing properties, and environmental resistance, Neononanoic acid has become a widely used intermediate across diverse industries, serving as a reliable building block in both traditional and advanced chemical formulations.
Market Overview of Neononanoic Acid:
The global market for Neononanoic acid was estimated at around USD 346–352 million in 2023–2024, and is projected to grow to somewhere between USD 550–650 million by 2032–2034, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the range of 5.2%–5.4%.
This growth is largely driven by increasing demand from lubricants, coatings, automotive, and personal care/cosmetics industries, which use Neononanoic acid for its thermal and oxidative stability, corrosion inhibition, and emollient properties.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate both in demand volume and growth, fueled by rapid industrialization, growth in automotive output, and rising consumer spending on personal care products.
Developed markets such as North America and Europe are also growing steadily, particularly in higher-purity grades for specialty applications.
Finally, sustainability trends—such as demand for bio-based feedstocks and lower-toxicity / lower-VOC chemicals—are creating additional tailwinds for Neononanoic acid, particularly in markets with stricter regulation.
Uses of Neononanoic Acid:
Neononanoic acid is a highly versatile branched-chain carboxylic acid that finds applications across a wide range of industries due to its unique balance of low volatility, thermal stability, and solubility in organic systems.
One of Neononanoic acid's most important uses is in the synthesis of esters, such as isononanoates, which serve as high-performance components in synthetic lubricants for automotive, aviation, and industrial applications, providing improved oxidation resistance, wear protection, and extended service life.
In the coatings and adhesives industry, Neononanoic acid is a key raw material for producing alkyd resins, polyester polyols, and metal carboxylates (driers), which enhance gloss retention, scratch resistance, and weather durability in paints, varnishes, and sealants.
Neononanoic acid is also widely employed in the manufacture of metal soaps (e.g., cobalt, manganese, and calcium isononanoates), which act as catalysts and drying agents in inks, coatings, and polymer formulations.
In plastics and polymers, Neononanoic acid is used as a precursor for PVC stabilizers and specialty plasticizers, improving flexibility, processing efficiency, and long-term stability.
Beyond industrial applications, Neononanoic acid is also incorporated into cosmetics and personal care products due to its emollient and skin-conditioning properties, where it enhances the texture, spreadability, and stability of creams, lotions, and hair care formulations. This wide applicability makes Neononanoic acid an essential intermediate across multiple value chains, serving both performance-driven and consumer-facing markets.
Neononanoic acid is a multifunctional branched-chain carboxylic acid with broad industrial significance, primarily due to its unique structural features that impart low volatility, excellent thermal stability, and resistance to hydrolysis.
Neononanoic acid's largest use is in the production of esters, such as isononanoates, which serve as critical ingredients in synthetic lubricants for automotive engines, transmission fluids, aviation oils, and high-performance industrial lubricants, where they contribute to oxidative stability, extended drain intervals, and reduced wear under severe operating conditions.
In the coatings and adhesives sector, Neononanoic acid is an essential raw material for alkyd resins, polyester polyols, and metal carboxylates (driers), providing enhanced gloss retention, hardness, and weather resistance in decorative and protective paints, varnishes, and sealants.
Neononanoic acid's role in the production of metal soaps such as cobalt and manganese isononanoates is particularly important in catalyzing drying reactions in surface coatings and printing inks, ensuring faster curing and improved durability.
In plastics and polymer formulations, Neononanoic acid is used in the synthesis of PVC stabilizers, plasticizers, and polymer modifiers, improving processing efficiency, flexibility, and long-term stability of finished products.
Neononanoic acid is also increasingly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry, where its emollient and skin-conditioning properties make it suitable for use in creams, lotions, sunscreens, and hair care products, providing softness, spreadability, and product stability.
Additionally, Neononanoic acid's application extends to the formulation of corrosion inhibitors, fuel additives, and specialty surfactants, where its branched structure provides both protective performance and compatibility with complex formulations.
This wide scope of use across automotive, construction, packaging, coatings, personal care, and energy sectors underscores Neononanoic acid’s role as a vital intermediate that bridges performance, reliability, and sustainability in modern chemical manufacturing.
Benefits of Neononanoic Acid:
Neononanoic acid offers a combination of structural and performance advantages that make it a preferred choice in industrial formulations compared to linear fatty acids and other medium-chain carboxylic acids.
Neononanoic acid's branched molecular structure provides low volatility and excellent resistance to hydrolysis, ensuring long-term stability in demanding applications such as high-temperature lubricants, coatings, and polymer systems.
This branching also contributes to improved oxidation stability and reduced migration, resulting in longer service life for synthetic esters and lubricants, as well as enhanced performance in PVC stabilizers and plasticizers.
In coatings and adhesives, Neononanoic acid improves weather resistance, gloss retention, and hardness, allowing end products to maintain appearance and mechanical properties under exposure to sunlight, moisture, and environmental stress.
Neononanoic acid’s high compatibility with both polar and nonpolar solvents, resins, and oils allows formulators greater flexibility in designing systems for diverse markets ranging from industrial paints to automotive fluids.
In personal care and cosmetics, Neononanoic acid contributes to emolliency, skin-conditioning, and product stability, offering both functional benefits and consumer-preferred sensory qualities.
Another key benefit is Neononanoic acid's regulatory and environmental profile, as Neononanoic acid is generally regarded as safe for use in multiple industries, aligning with global trends favoring sustainable, low-toxicity, and high-performance additives.
Overall, Neononanoic acid delivers a balance of durability, compatibility, and multifunctionality, which makes it a cost-effective and reliable building block for advanced chemical formulations across automotive, coatings, plastics, and personal care sectors.
Production of Neononanoic Acid:
Neononanoic acid is produced on an industrial scale through the oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) of C₈ olefins, followed by oxidation of the resulting aldehydes to yield the branched carboxylic acid.
In a typical process, a mixture of C₈ olefins, derived from petrochemical cracking or oligomerization, undergoes hydroformylation with carbon monoxide and hydrogen in the presence of a rhodium- or cobalt-based catalyst to form isononanal, a mixture of isomeric aldehydes.
These aldehydes are then subjected to catalytic oxidation, commonly using oxygen or air with metal catalysts, to convert the terminal aldehyde groups into carboxylic acids, producing a mixture dominated by 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid, the main component of Neononanoic acid.
The crude product is subsequently purified through neutralization, distillation, and filtration steps to achieve the desired acid number, color, and stability specifications.
Modern production plants employ continuous processes with energy recovery systems and closed-loop gas recycling to improve efficiency and minimize emissions, while advanced catalyst technologies allow for high selectivity and reduced by-product formation.
In addition to petrochemical feedstocks, there is growing interest in bio-based routes, where renewable fatty acids or alcohols serve as starting materials for the synthesis of Neononanoic acid, aligning with sustainability initiatives and regulatory demand for environmentally friendly intermediates.
The result is a high-purity, thermally stable branched fatty acid, supplied as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid, suitable for use in lubricants, coatings, plastics, adhesives, and personal care formulations.
History of Neononanoic Acid:
The history of Neononanoic acid is rooted in the development of oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) in the 1930s, a catalytic process that enabled the large-scale production of aldehydes and alcohols from olefins.
After World War II, this technology was industrialized and became a cornerstone of the emerging petrochemical industry, giving chemists access to a wide range of branched-chain intermediates.
By the mid-20th century, researchers discovered that oxidation of hydroformylated C₈ olefins produced a family of Neononanoic acids, with 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid as the principal isomer, which showed excellent properties for use in esters, metal soaps, and alkyd resins.
Initially, Neononanoic acid's applications were concentrated in coatings and drying agents, where metal isononanoates such as cobalt and manganese salts functioned as highly effective driers in paints and varnishes.
Over time, as demand grew for more advanced synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, and polymer stabilizers, Neononanoic acid became an essential feedstock for specialty esters that provided superior oxidative stability and low volatility compared to straight-chain analogues.
In the late 20th century, with the rapid expansion of the automotive, aviation, and personal care industries, Neononanoic acid production scaled up significantly, supported by major chemical companies in Europe, North America, and Asia.
In recent years, the focus has shifted toward sustainability and bio-based chemistry, prompting research into renewable routes to Neononanoic acid using fatty acid derivatives as starting materials.
Today, Neononanoic acid represents not only a legacy product of mid-century petrochemistry but also a modern, high-value building block that continues to evolve with advances in green chemistry and global demand for high-performance additives.
Handling and Storage of Neononanoic Acid:
Handling:
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
Use only with adequate ventilation.
Prevent the formation of vapors, mists, or aerosols during transfer or processing.
Do not ingest.
Wash thoroughly after handling, and remove contaminated clothing before reuse.
Avoid open flames, sparks, and high heat during handling.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Keep away from strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases.
Protect from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture to maintain product stability.
Recommended storage temperature: 15–30 °C.
Stability and Reactivity of Neononanoic Acid:
Stability:
Stable under recommended handling and storage conditions.
Reactivity:
No dangerous reactions expected under normal use.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizers (e.g., peroxides, nitric acid), strong acids, and alkalis.
Hazardous decomposition products:
Thermal decomposition or combustion may release carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) and irritating fumes.
Conditions to avoid:
Prolonged heating above decomposition temperature, exposure to strong oxidizers, and uncontrolled high-temperature processing.
First Aid Measures of Neononanoic Acid:
Inhalation:
If vapors or mists are inhaled, move the person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if irritation, coughing, or respiratory discomfort persists.
Skin contact:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Seek medical advice if irritation or redness develops.
Eye contact:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Obtain medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
Seek immediate medical advice if significant amounts are swallowed.
Firefighting Measures of Neononanoic Acid:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray.
Unsuitable extinguishing media:
Direct water jet may spread burning material.
Specific hazards:
Combustion can produce dense smoke, carbon oxides, and irritating vapors.
Product may form flammable mixtures with air at elevated temperatures.
Protective equipment for firefighters:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.
Cool exposed containers with water spray.
Accidental Release Measures of Neononanoic Acid:
Personal precautions:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, protective clothing).
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Avoid inhaling vapors or mist.
Eliminate all ignition sources.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent spillage from entering drains, soil, or waterways.
Large releases may pose a risk to aquatic environments.
Methods for cleaning up:
Contain and absorb with inert materials (sand, earth, vermiculite).
Collect in suitable containers for recovery or disposal.
Wash contaminated surfaces with detergent and water.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of Neononanoic Acid:
Engineering controls:
Provide local exhaust ventilation or general dilution ventilation to keep airborne concentrations below recommended limits.
Respiratory protection:
Not normally required under ambient conditions.
If vapor or mist levels exceed occupational limits, use a NIOSH/EN-approved organic vapor respirator.
Hand protection:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene, PVC).
Eye protection:
Use safety glasses with side shields or chemical splash goggles.
Skin and body protection:
Wear long sleeves, protective clothing, and safety footwear to prevent contact.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands and face after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while working with the product.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Identifiers of Neononanoic Acid:
Chemical Name: Neononanoic acid
Common Name: 3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic Acid
IUPAC Name: 3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic Acid
Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
CAS Number: 3302-10-1 (principal isomer, 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoic acid)
EC Number (EINECS): 221-950-4
InChI Key: CNRGVNLEHKVKKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N
UN Number (Transport): Not classified as hazardous for transport
Customs/HS Code: 2918 (Carboxylic acids and derivatives)
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Mild, fatty, characteristic odor
Density (20 °C): ~0.91–0.93 g/cm³
Boiling Point: ~250–260 °C (at reduced pressure)
Flash Point: ~120–130 °C (closed cup)
Melting Point: −50 °C to −40 °C (liquid at room temperature)
Solubility in Water: Poorly soluble (< 0.1 g/L)
Solubility in Organics: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons, and many oils
Vapor Pressure (20 °C): Very low (< 0.01 hPa)
Regulatory Status: Registered under REACH (EU); produced/imported in the range of ≥ 1,000 to < 10,000 tonnes per year
Storage Class (TRGS 510, Germany): Non-hazardous liquids (general chemical storage)
Chemical Name: Neononanoic acid
Preferred IUPAC Name: 3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic Acid
Chemical Class: Branched saturated fatty acid (synthetic carboxylic acid)
Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
CAS Number: 26896-20-8
EC Number (EINECS): 221-950-4
InChI: InChI=1S/C9H18O2/c1-7(2)5-9(3,4)6-8(10)11/h7H,5-6H2,1-4H3,(H,10,11)
InChI Key: CNRGVNLEHKVKKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: CC(C)CC(C)(C)CC(=O)O
UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport
HS Code: 2918.19
Properties of Neononanoic Acid:
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Mild, fatty, slightly pungent odor
Boiling Point: ~250–260 °C (at reduced pressure, 10 mmHg)
Melting Point: −50 °C to −40 °C
Flash Point: 120–130 °C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: > 300 °C
Density (20 °C): 0.91–0.93 g/cm³
Refractive Index (20 °C): 1.432–1.440
Vapor Pressure (20 °C): < 0.01 hPa (very low)
Acid Value: ~350 mg KOH/g
Solubility in Water: < 0.1 g/L (very low, essentially insoluble)
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons, esters, and many oils
Partition Coefficient (log Kow): ~4.5–5.0 (hydrophobic)
Viscosity (25 °C): ~25–35 mPa·s
Chemical Name: Neononanoic acid (3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic Acid)
Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
CAS Numbers: 3302-10-1 (main isomer) / 26896-20-8 (commercial isomeric mixture)
EC Number (EINECS): 221-950-4
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Mild, fatty, slightly pungent odor
Physical State: Liquid at room temperature
Density (20 °C): 0.91 – 0.93 g/cm³
Melting Point: –50 °C to –40 °C
Boiling Point: ~250 – 260 °C (at reduced pressure, 10 mmHg)
Flash Point: 120 – 130 °C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: > 300 °C
Refractive Index (20 °C): 1.432 – 1.440
Viscosity (25 °C): ~25 – 35 mPa·s
Vapor Pressure (20 °C): < 0.01 hPa (very low)
Solubility in Water: Very low (< 0.1 g/L)
Solubility in Organics: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons, esters, and oils
Partition Coefficient (log Kow): ~4.5 – 5.0 (hydrophobic)
Acid Value: ~350 mg KOH/g
Stability: Chemically stable under recommended storage conditions
Reactivity: Weak organic acid; reacts with bases to form salts, with alcohols to form esters
Corrosivity: Mildly corrosive to eyes and skin in concentrated form
Shelf Life: Stable for > 12 months when stored properly
