10-Aminodecanoic Acid stands out as a specialized chemical compound with the formula C10H21NO2. The molecular structure features a ten-carbon aliphatic chain carrying both an amino group on one end and a carboxylic acid group on the other. This structure offers versatility in reactivity; the molecule bridges the gap between classic amines and fatty acids. Held together by a sturdy carbon backbone, it toggles between oil-loving and water-interacting zones, which shapes how it behaves in mixtures and feeds into its reputation in the plastics, coatings, and pharmaceutical industries.
Most recognize 10-Aminodecanoic Acid as a solid in standard conditions, and depending on the purification process, it shows up as white flakes, fine powder, off-white crystalline pieces, pearls, or even granules. Seldom seen as a liquid, the compound begins to melt at temperatures well above room climate, with a melting point usually marked at 97–99°C. As for density, 10-Aminodecanoic Acid typically lands at around 0.98–1.03 g/cm³, reflecting a compact yet manageable material for handling and storage. In lab and bulk settings, the acid dissolves somewhat in ethanol, methanol, and other polar organic solvents. Its solubility in water drops off, though heat and agitation make a difference. A pure, dry sample rarely gives off odor, which makes it less intrusive during processing.
The backbone of 10-Aminodecanoic Acid runs unbranched, with a primary amine group (-NH2) on the decyl chain’s distal end and a terminal carboxyl group (-COOH) at the opposite. This design allows for stable hydrogen bonding, both as a donor and acceptor, boosting its leverage in reactions or formulations. Chemically, the molecular formula is C10H21NO2, giving it a molecular mass close to 187.28 g/mol. The specific placement of the amine at the omega position (10th carbon) sets this compound apart from other aminated fatty acids, especially during polymerization or amidation. The structure remains clear under spectroscopic analysis, and the material’s appearance matches what’s expected from high-purity batches: bright, free-flowing, and free from caking under dry storage.
Suppliers offer 10-Aminodecanoic Acid in packages suited for different uses and volumes, from laboratory bottles to industrial drums. Content sits above 98% purity in technical grades and even higher in analytical lots. Manufacturers carefully label material identity, with CAS Number 1972-02-7 and global HS Code 2921.19 for regulatory tracking, customs, and logistics. Buyers can expect a breakdown of moisture content, exact melting point, residue on ignition, and assay percentages. The most popular forms are flakes, powder, pearls, and occasionally larger crystalline solids. Each form serves a different purpose: flakes for controlled handling, powder for fast dissolution, and pearls or crystals for bulk transport with limited dust.
10-Aminodecanoic Acid does more than fill a single role; it acts as an early-stage building block in producing nylon-10 and other polyamides. Through a condensation reaction, the amine and carboxyl groups link up to form tough, high-performance material chains. This backbone makes its mark in industrial plastics, wire sheaths, biodegradable polymers, and specialty coatings. Some specialty chemical processes use this acid as a reactant in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and surfactants, tapping into its hybrid hydrophilic and hydrophobic structure. Each industrial sector faces the ongoing challenge of purity and consistent supply—attributes shaped by the raw material’s batch quality and secure shipping under stable storage.
Those working with 10-Aminodecanoic Acid need to keep clear instructions for safe handling. Contact with eyes or skin, like almost any exposed amine-carboxylic acid compound, leads to irritation or redness if not promptly washed with water. Inhalation of dust can cause respiratory discomfort, so local exhaust and personal protective equipment matter. Standard chemical storage means keeping the material tightly sealed, in a cool, dry room, away from oxidizers or sources of ignition. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) gives guidance on potential harmful effects, but the chemical profile generally lands in the “moderate hazard” category, with low long-term environmental risk if waste management standards are met. For shipment, the substance travels in compliance with international regulations, using clear hazard labeling, especially whenever transported in high volumes.
Working with 10-Aminodecanoic Acid trims costs and drives innovation for eco-friendly plastics and specialty chemical production. My own experience tells me that keeping tight control on storage conditions dodges caking and excess moisture, which helps preserve flow and reactivity for downstream processes. Making sure each shipment arrives packed, labeled, and tested for purity saves headaches on regulatory checks and production line slowdowns. The demand for alternatives to petroleum-derived chemicals grows stronger; plant-based synthesis routes for 10-Aminodecanoic Acid offer a path to sustainable raw material sourcing. Defining clear specifications, running batch analytics, and tracking each lot by HS Code lets producers and users stay ahead of compliance and supply chain risk. Focusing on transparent safety measures, clear hazard identification, and reliable technical support allows for responsible and efficient use of this specialized acid—whether in raw crystal, pearl, or powder form.