Pelargonic acid

Pelargonic acid (nonanoic acid) is a monocarboxylic acid. The product appears as a clear, colourless liquid and is available in different degrees of purity.

Due to its favourable ecotoxicological profile, pelargonic acid is used in new herbicide formulations to replace existing synthetic herbicides.

The non-persistence and complete biodegradability of natural pelargonic acid herbicides means that their impact on the environment is minimal. They do not interfere with biodiversity, have no residual effects, and can also be used to clean soils immediately before sowing or transplanting.

Pelargonic acid is also used in detergent products as a precursor to nonaneperoxoic acid.
Peroxycarboxylic acids are known for their antimicrobial activity (sanitisation, disinfection and sterilisation) and as bleaching agents.
Pelargonic acid has thus found further uses in industrial cleaning, water treatment and the control of microbial activity in public spaces.

Pelargonic acid, in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1831/2003, is considered a flavouring additive for animal feed. It can also replace antibiotic products due to its antimicrobial property.

Certain esters of pelargonic acid are used as intermediates in the synthesis of biolubricants and emollients for the cosmetics industry.

Trade name	Pelargonic acid %, min	Corrosion inhibitor	Cosmetics	Esters	Herbicides	Feeds	Cleaning and home care
AP001M	98			●	●
AP002M	98				●
FP001M	98					●
IP001M	98	●	●	●			●
PP001M	98	●	●	●			●