Octenol, sometimes referred to as 1-Octen-3-ol or mushroom alcohol, is a chemical typically used in pesticides to attract biting insects. Octenol does not kill insects and is not toxic to humans when released into the air. Some perfumes also contain octenol, according to the EPA.
Features
Octenol is a stable colorless liquid with a specific gravity of 0.830. It boils at around 183 degrees Fahrenheit.
Product Safety
Electronic devices that use octenol to lure mosquitoes and other biting insects emit a small amount of octenol that is not harmful to humans or the environment. However, electronic bug killers may kill some bugs that are not considered pests.
Lab Safety
Wear gloves and goggles when working with octenol in a laboratory. If you get octenol in your eyes, rinse eyes with water and see a doctor. Wash your skin after contact with octenol. Seek fresh air if you have inhaled it. Extinguish any fires caused by octenol with water, carbon dioxide or foam.
History
Octenol was licensed for sale in 1997, according to the EPA.
Tags: biting insects, with octenol, with water