Isobutyl Acetate (Acetic Acid Isobutyl Ester)

   CAS No.: 110-19-0
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Isobutyl Acetate; Acetic acid isobutyl ester
   Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂
   Molecular Weight: ≈ 116.16 g/mol
   Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid
   Odour: Fruity/ester-like at low concentrations

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Melting/Freezing Point: approx. -99 °C
• Boiling Point: approx. 115–118 °C (at 1 atm)
• Density (25 °C): around 0.867–0.875 g/mL
• Flash Point (CC): approx. 21–44 °C depending on grade
• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~6–9 g/L at 20 °C); miscible with many organic solvents
• Vapour Pressure: ~13–17 mmHg at 20 °C
• Explosive Limits (in air): Lower ~1.3–2.4% vol; Upper ~10.5% vol

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Purity: ≥ 99% by GC for high-grade applications
• Appearance: Clear and free from visible particles or haze
• Analytical Methods: Gas chromatography, moisture content, spectral verification
• Stability: Stable when stored under recommended conditions; keep away from heat and ignition sources

Applications / Uses

• Used as a solvent in coatings, inks, adhesives, lacquers, and nitrocellulose formulations
• Intermediate or excipient in flavour & fragrance manufacturing due to fruity ester odour
• Suitable for applications requiring moderate evaporation rate and good solvency power

Safety & Handling

• Classification: Highly flammable liquid and vapour
• Health Hazards:
• Inhalation: Vapours may cause dizziness or drowsiness
• Skin Contact: May cause drying or cracking with repeated exposure
• Eye Contact: Causes serious eye irritation
• Precautions:
• Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid ignition sources
• Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection, and flame-resistant clothing
• Ground and bond containers and equipment during transfer
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities:
• Avoid strong oxidisers; vapour may form explosive mixtures with air
• Keep containers tightly sealed when not in use
• First Aid Measures:
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; keep at rest; seek medical advice if symptoms persist
• Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
• Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; obtain medical attention

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed solvent-compatible containers suitable for flammable liquids
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, ignition sources, and incompatible materials
• Container Closure: Keep tightly closed when not in use to prevent vapour release and contamination
• Shelf Life: Generally stable for 12–24 months under recommended conditions; inspect for colour change or contamination before use