Naphthenic Acid CAS 1338-24-5

Naphthenic Acid – Versatile Industrial Intermediate and Additive

Basic Information

• Product Name: Naphthenic acid

• CAS Number: 1338-24-5

• Molecular Formula: C₇H₁₀O₂

• Molecular Weight: 126.15 g/mol

• Appearance: Pale yellowish-brown transparent oily liquid

• Boiling Point: 160–198°C (at 6 mmHg)

• Relative Density: 0.92 g/mL at 20°C

• Flash Point: 149°C

• Solubility: Characteristic odor; practically insoluble in water; soluble in hydrocarbons

Overview
Naphthenic acid is a mixture of carboxylic acids derived from the refining of petroleum naphthenic fractions. It is a versatile industrial intermediate with a wide range of applications across coatings, polymers, lubricants, metal extraction, and biocidal formulations. Its hydrophobic nature and weak acidity make it suitable for both solvent-based and oil-based systems.

Applications

• Coatings and inks: Used as a drier additive for printing inks and paints to accelerate oxidative drying.

• Polymers: Component in unsaturated polyester resins, PVC, and PEO formulations as a plasticizer or processing aid.

• Plastic additives: Improves flexibility and processability in plastic compounds.

• Lubricants and oil additives: Used in lubricating oils and fuel additives to improve performance and corrosion resistance.

• Metal extraction: Acts as an extractant for rare earth elements in hydrometallurgical processes (wet smelting).

• Biocides: Raw material for preservatives, insecticides, and fungicides.

• Surfactants and detergents: Used in the synthesis of synthetic detergents and surface-active agents.

Key Properties

• Good solubility in organic solvents and oils.

• Weak acidity allows formation of metal salts (naphthenates) used as driers and catalysts.

• Stable under normal storage conditions.

• Low volatility and high flash point – relatively safe for handling.

Recommended Use
Dosage varies widely by application – as a drier (0.1–1% of paint formulation), as a plasticizer (5–30%), or as an extractant (10–50% in solvent extraction). Optimize through formulation testing.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from oxidizers and strong bases.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and contamination.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing).

• Avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors.

Packaging
Available in 25 L, 200 L drums, and bulk quantities. Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for acid value, color, water content, and solubility to ensure consistent quality.