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    Iso Butanol (Isobutyl Alcohol)

    Isobutanol (Isobutyl Alcohol) is a branched primary alcohol containing four carbon atoms. It is widely used across various industries as a solvent, chemical intermediate, fuel additive, and plasticizer. This compound is a colorless liquid with a characteristic alcoholic odor and moderate volatility, belonging to the family of light aliphatic alcohols.


    Chemical Structure of Isobutanol

    • Molecular formula: C₄H₁₀O

    • IUPAC name: 2-Methyl-1-propanol

    • Structural formula: (CH₃)₂CHCH₂OH

    • Type of alcohol: Branched primary alcohol

    The branched structure of isobutanol (or isobutyl alcohol) distinguishes it from n-butanol, resulting in differences in physical properties, solubility, odor, and chemical reactivity.


    Physical and Chemical Properties of Isobutanol

    Property Description
    Molecular weight 74.12 g/mol
    Odor Sweet, slightly musty
    Flash point ~28 °C (depending on pressure)
    Solubility in organic solvents Miscible with alcohols, esters, ethers, chloroform, and benzene
    Polarity Moderate – contains a polar hydroxyl group and a short hydrocarbon chain
    Volatility Medium – evaporates slower than methanol but faster than ethanol
    Chemical stability Stable under normal conditions; unstable with strong acids or oxidizing agents
    Miscibility Completely miscible with most organic solvents

    Applications of Isobutanol

    1. Industrial Solvent

    • Used in lacquers, resins, adhesives, and solvent-based paints

    • Effective solvent for printing inks, metal coatings, and automotive varnishes

    2. Fuel Additive

    • Improves octane rating in gasoline

    • Reduces engine deposits and enhances combustion efficiency

    • Considered a bio-based alternative to methanol in blended biofuels

    3. Chemical Synthesis

    • Intermediate in the production of esters, plasticizers, and surfactants

    • Used in the manufacture of isobutyl acetate, butyl acrylate, and various aromatic compounds

    4. Oil, Gas, and Agricultural Industries

    • Used as a formulation agent in pesticides, lubricating additives, and extraction agents

    • Applied in oil refining and organic phase separation processes


    Advantages of Isobutanol

    • Excellent solvent power for both polar and nonpolar compounds

    • Moderate evaporation rate, providing better control compared to lighter alcohols

    • High efficiency in the synthesis of esters and fragrance compounds

    • High octane number, suitable for blending with fossil fuels

    • Good chemical and environmental stability


    Disadvantages of Isobutanol

    • Highly flammable, requiring careful handling and storage

    • Moderate toxicity – may cause respiratory or skin irritation with repeated exposure

    • Limited solubility in water, requiring emulsifiers or mechanical agitation for blending

    • Often more expensive than n-butanol in certain markets


    Safety Information for Isobutanol

    • Chemical name: Isobutanol (Isobutyl Alcohol)

    • Chemical formula: C₄H₁₀O

    • CAS Number: 78-83-1


    Chemical and Physical Hazards of Isobutanol

    Hazard Type Description
    High flammability Isobutanol has a flash point of around 28 °C. Vapors can ignite easily when exposed to open flames or sparks.
    Skin and eye irritation Direct contact may cause skin dryness, irritation, or eye discomfort.
    Respiratory hazard Inhalation of vapors in confined spaces may cause dizziness, headache, nausea, or respiratory irritation.
    Nervous system effects Prolonged or repeated exposure may adversely affect the central nervous system.

    Safety Measures for Handling Isobutanol

    General Precautions

    • Work only in well-ventilated areas

    • Use an organic vapor respirator in industrial environments

    • Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or PVC), safety goggles, and a lab coat

    • Avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact

    In Case of Leakage

    • Absorb spills using non-combustible absorbents such as vermiculite or sand

    • Ventilate the area and remove all ignition sources

    • Use anti-static, spark-proof tools for cleanup

    In Case of Fire

    • Use alcohol-resistant foam, CO₂, or dry chemical extinguishers

    • Avoid using high-pressure water streams (may spread the fire)

    • Firefighting personnel should wear protective gear and alcohol-resistant suits


    Storage Conditions for Isobutanol

    Parameter Recommendation
    Storage temperature 5 – 30 °C – avoid extreme cold or direct heat
    Storage containers Use metal drums or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers resistant to solvents
    Ventilation Store in a well-ventilated warehouse, free from heat sources
    Labeling Containers should be clearly labeled with flammable and irritant hazard symbols
    Incompatible materials Keep away from strong oxidizers, concentrated acids, and chlorates

    Iso Butanol (Isobutyl Alcohol)