1,4-BUTANEDIOL
Paint chemicals 2025-03-21
1.4-Butanediol is a colorless liquid with high boiling point and low toxicity, obtained by aldolization and hydrogenation of propylene alcohol, carbon monoxide and hydrogen.
1.4-Butanediol (BDO): Overview and Key Properties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | 1.4-Butanediol |
| Molecular Formula | C₄H₁₀O₂ |
| CAS Number | 110-63-4 |
| Appearance | Colorless viscous liquid |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic |
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 230°C (446°F) |
| Melting Point | 20°C (68°F) |
| Density | 1.017 g/cm³ (20°C) |
| Solubility | Miscible in water, ethanol, acetone |
| Flash Point | 121°C (250°F) – Combustible |
| Viscosity | 71.5 mPa·s (25°C) |
Production Methods
| Method | Process Description |
|---|---|
| Reppe Chemistry | Acetylene + Formaldehyde (high pressure) |
| Maleic Anhydride | Hydrogenation of maleic anhydride |
| Bioprocess | Fermentation of sugars (renewable route) |
Applications
| Industry | Uses |
|---|---|
| Polymers | Production of PBT, PU, spandex fibers |
| Solvents | Industrial cleaner, ink solvent |
| Pharmaceuticals | Intermediate for sedatives, anesthetics |
| Electrolytes | Component in lithium-ion batteries |
| Consumer Goods | Moisturizer in cosmetics |
Safety & Handling
| Parameter | Value/Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OSHA Exposure Limit | Not established |
| Health Effects | Irritant; CNS depression at high doses |
| Environmental | Readily biodegradable |
| Storage | Keep in stainless steel/aluminum containers |
Comparison with Similar Glycols
| Glycol | BDO vs. Alternatives |
|---|---|
| Ethylene Glycol | Lower toxicity but poorer polymer performance |
| Propylene Glycol | More biocompatible but higher cost |
| 1.3-Propanediol | Renewable but limited applications |
Market & Sustainability
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Capacity | ~3 million tons/year |
| Price Range | 1.500−1.500−2.500/ton |
| Bio-based Routes | Genomatica’s fermentation process (commercial since 2015) |
| Regulations | REACH registered; FDA approved for indirect food contact |
Summary
1.4-Butanediol is a versatile chemical building block critical for polyesters, polyurethanes, and specialty chemicals. With emerging bio-based production methods, it aligns with circular economy goals. While generally safe, industrial handling requires precautions due to its combustible nature.
