N-Butyl Alcohol – Industrial Solvent for Coatings, Inks, and Chemical Manufacturing
Introduction
N-Butyl Alcohol, also known as 1-Butanol, n-Butanol, or Butan-1-ol, is a primary alcohol widely used as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. Its chemical formula is C₄H₁₀O, and it is typically supplied as a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor. It has moderate solubility in water and mixes with many organic solvents, making it useful in a wide range of industrial formulations. N-Butyl Alcohol is valued for its solvent properties, relatively moderate evaporation rate, and compatibility with selected resins and coating ingredients. The required grade and purity depend on the intended application and applicable technical specifications.
Industrial Applications
- Paints and Coatings: Used as a solvent and formulation ingredient in selected paints, varnishes, and industrial coatings.
- Printing Inks: Supports the formulation of certain printing inks and related products.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Used as a solvent and intermediate in the production of various chemical compounds.
- Adhesives and Resins: Incorporated into compatible formulations involving resins and adhesive materials.
- Cleaning and Degreasing: Used in selected industrial cleaning formulations where its solvency characteristics are suitable.
- Chemical Derivatives: Serves as a feedstock for producing butyl esters and other industrial chemicals.
Key Benefits
- Provides useful solvency for selected resins, oils, and organic compounds.
- Compatible with many organic solvents used in industrial formulations.
- Offers a moderate evaporation rate for applications requiring controlled drying.
- Supports the production of coatings, inks, adhesives, and chemical intermediates.
- Available in commercial grades suited to different industrial requirements.
- Can provide consistent performance when purity and formulation compatibility are controlled.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | N-Butyl Alcohol |
| Alternative Names | 1-Butanol, n-Butanol, Butan-1-ol |
| Chemical Formula | C₄H₁₀O |
| CAS Number | 71-36-3 |
| Molecular Weight | 74.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor | Characteristic alcohol odor |
| Boiling Point | Approximately 118°C |
| Density | Approximately 0.81 g/cm³ at 20°C |
| Solubility | Limited solubility in water; miscible with many organic solvents |
| Chemical Classification | Primary alcohol |
| Primary Function | Industrial solvent and chemical intermediate |
| Main Applications | Coatings, printing inks, adhesives, cleaning formulations, chemical manufacturing |
| Purity | Grade-dependent |
| Packaging | Compatible, tightly sealed containers or approved bulk supply |
Note: Values are approximate typical properties. Purity, moisture content, and other technical specifications depend on the commercial grade. Consult the supplier's Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Certificate of Analysis (COA), and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for confirmed details.
Storage and Handling
N-Butyl Alcohol is a flammable liquid. Its vapors may form flammable mixtures with air, and exposure can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract or cause dizziness and other effects, particularly at elevated concentrations. Handle the product in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. Avoid inhaling vapors and prevent eye contact and prolonged skin exposure. Wear suitable chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing, and safety glasses based on the workplace risk assessment. Use appropriate grounding and bonding procedures when transferring bulk quantities to reduce static-electricity hazards. Store in tightly closed, clearly labeled, compatible containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area designated for flammable liquids. Keep away from incompatible materials and follow the supplier's recommendations for storage, spill response, transport, and disposal. Always review the current SDS before use.
Quality and Supply
N-Butyl Alcohol should be obtained from a reliable chemical supplier that can provide appropriate technical documentation. Before ordering, confirm the required purity, moisture limits, intended application, packaging format, and delivery requirements.
For coatings, inks, adhesives, and chemical manufacturing, verify that the selected grade meets the relevant process and quality standards. Review the COA for batch-specific specifications and the SDS for safe handling, storage, and transport requirements.
Conclusion
N-Butyl Alcohol is a versatile industrial alcohol used in coatings, printing inks, adhesives, cleaning formulations, and chemical manufacturing. Its solvency and moderate evaporation characteristics make it suitable for a variety of industrial processes when the correct grade is selected. Proper product selection, compatible storage, and appropriate flammable-liquid safety procedures help support consistent performance and responsible industrial use. Contact a qualified chemical supplier to discuss availability, technical specifications, packaging options, and documentation for your application.
