Chemical Properties
Dodecanol reacts violently with oxidizing materials and acids.
Physical properties
Dodecanol is a white low melting crystalline solid that has a melting point of 24°C.The air odor threshold for dodecyl alcohol (isomer not specified) is reported to be 7.1 ppb.
Uses
Dodecanol is used to make surfactants, lubricating oils, pharmaceuticals, in the formation of monolithic polymers and as a flavor enhancing food additive. In cosmetics, dodecanol is used as an emollient.
Preparation
Dodecanol can be prepared from palm kernel oil or coconut oil.
Toxicology
Dodecanol can irritate the skin. It has about half the toxicity of ethanol, but it is very harmful to marine organisms.