N-Butyl Alcohol G.R.

N-Butyl Alcohol (also known as 1-Butanol or n-Butanol, CAS No. 71-36-3) is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula C4H9OH. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong, characteristic odor. N-Butyl Alcohol is widely used in various industrial, chemical, and commercial applications due to its solvent properties and versatility. Below is a detailed overview of its uses, properties, and safety considerations.

Chemical Properties

N-Butyl Alcohol has a molecular weight of 74.12 g/mol and a boiling point of approximately 117.7°C. It is moderately soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and acetone. The compound is a four-carbon alcohol with a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the first carbon atom, making it a primary alcohol. Its chemical structure allows it to participate in various reactions, including esterification, oxidation, and dehydration.

Uses of N-Butyl Alcohol

1. Industrial Solvent:
   • N-Butyl Alcohol is widely used as a solvent in the production of coatings, paints, varnishes, and resins. It helps dissolve and stabilize these materials, improving their application and performance.
   • It is also used as a solvent in the manufacture of adhesives, inks, and dyes.
2. Chemical Intermediate:
   • The compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, such as butyl acetate, butyl acrylate, and glycol ethers. These derivatives are used in the production of plastics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
   • It is also used in the production of plasticizers, which are added to plastics to improve flexibility and durability.
3. Pharmaceutical Industry:
   • N-Butyl Alcohol is used as a solvent and intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, vitamins, and hormones.
4. Fuel and Fuel Additive:
   • The compound is used as a biofuel or fuel additive due to its high energy content and compatibility with gasoline and diesel engines. It can be blended with conventional fuels to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.
5. Extraction Agent:
   • N-Butyl Alcohol is used as an extraction agent in the purification of chemicals and natural products. It is particularly useful in the extraction of antibiotics and other bioactive compounds from fermentation broths.
6. Laboratory and Research:
   • The compound is used in laboratories as a reagent for organic synthesis, chromatography, and analytical procedures.
7. Cosmetics and Personal Care:
   • N-Butyl Alcohol is used in the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products, such as nail polish, perfumes, and lotions, as a solvent and viscosity regulator.

Safety and Handling

N-Butyl Alcohol is flammable and moderately toxic, requiring careful handling and storage. Key safety considerations include:

1. Flammability:
   • The compound is highly flammable and should be stored away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Proper ventilation and fire safety measures must be in place when handling this chemical.
2. Health Hazards:
   • Inhalation: Prolonged inhalation of vapors can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and dizziness.
   • Ingestion: Accidental ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and central nervous system depression.
   • Skin Contact: Prolonged or repeated skin contact can cause irritation and dermatitis.
   • Eye Contact: Exposure to the eyes can cause irritation and damage.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • N-Butyl Alcohol is biodegradable but can be harmful to aquatic life in high concentrations. Proper disposal methods must be followed to prevent environmental contamination.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • When handling N-Butyl Alcohol, workers must wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, and lab coats. Respirators may be required in areas with poor ventilation.
5. Storage and Disposal:
   • The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers. Waste containing N-Butyl Alcohol must be disposed of in accordance with local and international hazardous waste regulations.

Regulatory Status

N-Butyl Alcohol is regulated under various safety and environmental guidelines to ensure its safe use in industrial and commercial applications. It complies with regulations such as the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the United States and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) in the European Union.

Conclusion

N-Butyl Alcohol (CAS No. 71-36-3) is a versatile chemical compound with significant applications in the industrial, chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Its role as a solvent, chemical intermediate, and fuel additive highlights its importance in modern manufacturing processes. However, due to its flammability and toxicity, proper safety measures must be followed to ensure its safe handling and use. As industries continue to prioritize safety and sustainability, the use of N-Butyl Alcohol is expected to remain essential, with a focus on minimizing risks and environmental impact.