Butyl Glycol
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Category:
Specialty Chemicals
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Product Profile
1. Chemical Structure and Properties
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₄O₂
Structural Formula: CH₃(CH₂)₃OCH₂CH₂OH — A glycol ether with a butyl group attached to an ethylene glycol moiety.
Physical Properties:
Appearance: Colorless liquid with mild, ether-like odor
Boiling Point: 171°C
Density: 0.9 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohols, and many organic solvents
Chemical Properties:
Acts as a polar aprotic solvent with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups
Stable under normal conditions, reactive with strong oxidizers
Can participate in ether cleavage under acidic conditions
2. Industrial Applications
Solvent:
Widely used in paints, coatings, inks, and cleaning formulations due to excellent solvency and low evaporation rate
Cleaning Agent:
Effective in industrial degreasing, floor cleaners, and detergents
Intermediate:
Used in the synthesis of other chemicals, including surfactants and specialty solvents
Textiles and Leather:
Helps in dye penetration, finishing agents, and softening formulations
Pharmaceuticals and Agrochemicals:
Serves as a solvent or carrier in certain formulations
3. Safety and Toxicology
Health Hazards:
Can cause skin and eye irritation
Inhalation of vapors may irritate the respiratory system
Prolonged or repeated exposure may affect the liver and kidneys
Fire & Explosion Risk:
Flammable liquid (flash point ~55°C)
Keep away from ignition sources and strong oxidizers
Protective Measures:
Wear appropriate PPE: gloves, goggles, and ventilated masks
Use proper storage and handling procedures
4. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations
Environmental Impact:
Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Moderate aquatic toxicity; avoid discharge into waterways
Regulatory Compliance:
Listed on EU REACH and US TSCA inventories
Transport: UN 3082 (Environmentally hazardous substance, liquid), Class 9
5. Case Studies and Application Insights
Paints & Coatings:
Improves leveling and film formation in industrial coatings, reducing defects
Cleaning Formulations:
Enhances degreasing efficiency in metal and floor cleaners
Comparison with Alternatives:
Compared to other glycol ethers, Butyl Glycol offers lower volatility and balanced solvency, making it preferred in formulations that require slower evaporation