Octanohydroxamic acid, also known as caprylhydroxamic acid, is a versatile specialty chemical primarily used as a chelating agent in analytical chemistry. It forms stable complexes with metal ions, making it valuable for the extraction, separation, and determination of metals in various samples. This property is particularly useful in environmental testing and wastewater treatment, where it helps in detecting, quantifying, and removing trace and heavy metals from water, soil, and industrial effluents.

In the pharmaceutical industry, it is explored for its potential therapeutic applications. Hydroxamic acids, including octanohydroxamic acid, can inhibit enzymes like histone deacetylases (HDACs), which are involved in cancer progression, positioning it as a candidate for developing anticancer drugs. Additionally, its metal-binding ability supports diagnostic applications.

It also finds application in polymer chemistry as a stabilizer and modifier, enhancing polymer properties, extending lifespan, and preventing metal-catalyzed degradation.

In industrial processes, such as mineral flotation, it acts as a collector, selectively binding to specific metal ores to facilitate their separation, improving efficiency and purity. Furthermore, in the cosmetics industry, it serves as a preservative and chelating agent in skincare products, offering antimicrobial properties, antioxidant effects, and protection against metal-induced skin damage.

Overall, octanohydroxamic acid's ability to form metal complexes and its inhibitory properties make it a valuable compound in scientific, industrial, and personal care applications.