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Definition

An aliphatic compound is a hydrocarbon (a molecule containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms) that is not aromatic; e.g. it lacks a particular arrangement of atoms in its molecular structure that would make it aromatic.

Additional Info

Aliphatic is especially used in reference to open-chain (non-cyclic) hydrocarbons. The term can also apply to open-chain hydrocarbon sub-units of larger organic molecules, for example "aliphatic group" or "aliphatic substituent".

The adjective can also be extended to other functional groups, for example "aliphatic amines" are amines in which only aliphatic groups are attached to the nitrogen atom of the amine. For example, trimethyl amine, N(CH₃)₃, which has three aliphatic CH₃ substituents attached to the nitrogen atom, is an aliphatic amine, however N-N-dimethylaniline, N(CH₃)₂(C₆H₅), which has two CH₃ groups and one phenyl group attached to the nitrogen atom, is not because the phenyl group, C₆H₅, is an aromatic substituent. Aliphatic alcohols and aliphatic ethers are additional common examples.

Some references define aliphatic with the term "linear hydrocarbon chains", but the term actually includes branched chains as well. Likewise, some definitions of aliphatic permit these chains to contain elements besides hydrogen and carbon. See our hydrocarbon entry more information about the various types of hydrocarbons and their nomenclature.

Aliphatic hydrocarbons are major components of everyday materials such as turpentine, gasoline and oil-based paints.

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SDS Relevance

Aliphatic hydrocarbons and their chemical derivatives are often quite flammable. While some pose no serious health risk, others, such as n-hexane are known neurotoxins. Most aliphatics can lead to defatting (drying) of the skin, which can possibly lead to dermatitis (eczema).

Always wear proper gloves and eye protection when working with aliphatic materials. Be sure to wear an appropriate respirator if ventilation is not adequate, and be careful to avoid ignition sources as the vapors can easily reach their flammable limit.

Further Reading

• IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) nomenclature rules for how to systematically name organic molecules.
• Read this Centers for Disease Control (CDC) document n-Hexane-Related Peripheral Neuropathy Among Automotive Technicians --- California, 1999-2000.
• Examples of aliphatic compounds / non-aromatic at Wikipedia.
• Aliphatic Hydrocarbons at Chemistry LibreTexts™.

See also: hydrocarbon, aromatic, organic.

Further definitions from Google and OneLook.

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