Limiting activity coefficients (gamma(1)(infinity)) of lower (C1-C5) 1-alkanols in water were measured at several temperatures covering the range from the freezing to the normal boiling point of water. Five experimental techniques, namely headspace analysis, inert gas stripping, comparative tensimetry, Rayleigh distillation, and the method of circulation still, were employed for the purpose. To establish reliable temperature dependence of gamma(1)(infinity) for each of the systems, careful goal-directed measurements were carried out applying the methods alternatively in accordance with the applicability conditions. The method-to-method accord of the results, their thermodynamic consistency with calorimetric data on related thermal properties and their accuracy were verified using two procedures. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.