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
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Molecular formula: C₄H₁₀O
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IUPAC name: 2-Methyl-1-propanol
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Structural formula: (CH₃)₂CHCH₂OH
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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 |
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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
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Used in lacquers, resins, adhesives, and solvent-based paints
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Effective solvent for printing inks, metal coatings, and automotive varnishes
2. Fuel Additive
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Improves octane rating in gasoline
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Reduces engine deposits and enhances combustion efficiency
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Considered a bio-based alternative to methanol in blended biofuels
3. Chemical Synthesis
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Intermediate in the production of esters, plasticizers, and surfactants
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Used in the manufacture of isobutyl acetate, butyl acrylate, and various aromatic compounds
4. Oil, Gas, and Agricultural Industries
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Used as a formulation agent in pesticides, lubricating additives, and extraction agents
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Applied in oil refining and organic phase separation processes
Advantages of Isobutanol
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Excellent solvent power for both polar and nonpolar compounds
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Moderate evaporation rate, providing better control compared to lighter alcohols
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High efficiency in the synthesis of esters and fragrance compounds
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High octane number, suitable for blending with fossil fuels
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Good chemical and environmental stability
Disadvantages of Isobutanol
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Highly flammable, requiring careful handling and storage
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Moderate toxicity – may cause respiratory or skin irritation with repeated exposure
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Limited solubility in water, requiring emulsifiers or mechanical agitation for blending
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Often more expensive than n-butanol in certain markets
Safety Information for Isobutanol
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Chemical name: Isobutanol (Isobutyl Alcohol)
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Chemical formula: C₄H₁₀O
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CAS Number: 78-83-1
Chemical and Physical Hazards of Isobutanol
Hazard Type | Description |
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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
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Work only in well-ventilated areas
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Use an organic vapor respirator in industrial environments
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Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or PVC), safety goggles, and a lab coat
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Avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact
In Case of Leakage
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Absorb spills using non-combustible absorbents such as vermiculite or sand
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Ventilate the area and remove all ignition sources
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Use anti-static, spark-proof tools for cleanup
In Case of Fire
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Use alcohol-resistant foam, CO₂, or dry chemical extinguishers
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Avoid using high-pressure water streams (may spread the fire)
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Firefighting personnel should wear protective gear and alcohol-resistant suits
Storage Conditions for Isobutanol
Parameter | Recommendation |
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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 |
Applications
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Iso Butanol (Isobutyl Alcohol)
Products | Chemical formula | CAS number | Grade | Vapor pressure | Physical appearance | Density (at 20°C) | Melting point | Solubility in water |
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2-Methyl-1-propanol | C₄H₁₀O | 78-83-1 | Fuel grade, Industrial, Lab | 10 mmHg | Clear, colorless liquid | 0.802 g/cm³ | –108°C | Slightly soluble; about 85 grams per liter (g/L) |