N-Butanol (Normal Butyl Alcohol)

Overview

N-Butanol (CAS No: 71-36-3), also known as normal butyl alcohol, is a colorless, flammable liquid. This organic compound, a member of the primary alcohols, has a characteristic strong alcoholic odor. It is a versatile solvent and chemical intermediate widely used in industry.

N-Butanol has limited solubility in water but is miscible with most organic solvents. Due to its moderate evaporation rate and excellent solvent properties, it is particularly preferred in the paint, coating, resin, and plasticizer industries. It is also an important raw material for the production of various esters.

Applications

N-Butanol has a wide range of industrial and consumer applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Flammable Eye and skin irritant Central nervous system effect

Personal Protective Equipment

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical goggles or face shield
• Proper ventilation or respiratory protection (at high vapor concentrations)
• Chemical-resistant apron or work clothing

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area
• Keep away from heat and ignition sources
• Store in original closed containers, protected from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing materials
• Storage temperature: 15-25°C

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water mist
• Do not use water jet - may spread fire
• Intervene with appropriate respiratory protection by trained personnel

Handling and Storage

Transportation

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
• Ground to prevent static electricity buildup
• Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during transport

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
• Maintain "Flammable Liquid" signs in storage areas
• Use appropriate breathing vents in storage tanks

Spill Response

• Remove all ignition sources
• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spill with sand, chemical sponge, or other absorbent materials
• Dispose of absorbed material properly
• Clean spilled area with plenty of water and detergent

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Flammable Liquid Category 3
• Skin Irritation Category 2
• Eye Irritation Category 2A
• Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3

Key Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• OSHA: Subject to hazard communication standard
• NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0

International Regulations

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Subject to EPA VOC regulations
• China: Present in IECSC list
• Japan: Present in ISHL list

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

N-Butanol degrades at a moderate rate in the atmosphere through photochemical reactions. If released into water sources, it is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. It is biodegradable and does not persist long in the environment.

Biodegradation

• Air: Half-life of 2-5 days through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 7-28 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Moderate rate of degradation through microbial activity

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities can be disposed of through biological treatment in licensed facilities
• Large quantities should be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Dispose of in accordance with local regulations

Frequently Asked Questions

How is N-Butanol produced?

N-Butanol is primarily produced by oxo synthesis (hydroformylation) of propylene. It can also be produced through fermentation. Industrial scale production uses continuous distillation processes, with global annual production exceeding 3 million tons.

What is the difference between N-Butanol and Isobutanol?

N-Butanol (1-butanol) is a linear alcohol, while isobutanol has a branched structure. N-Butanol has a higher boiling point and lower vapor pressure. Although their solvent properties are similar, they may show different performance in some applications.

Does N-Butanol damage plastics?

N-Butanol is moderately aggressive to most plastics. Polyethylene and polypropylene are resistant to short-term contact but should be avoided for long-term exposure. It may cause swelling or dissolution effects in plastics such as PVC and polystyrene.

What is the shelf life of N-Butanol?

When stored properly in closed containers, N-Butanol has a shelf life of approximately 2 years. It should be tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and protected from humidity. Stability testing is recommended before long-term storage.

What should I do if N-Butanol contacts skin?

Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash with plenty of water and soap. Prolonged contact can cause dryness and irritation to the skin. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. In case of eye contact, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult an eye doctor.