What Is N-Butanol?

N-Butanol (normal butanol) is a versatile four-carbon alcohol used primarily as a high-solvency industrial solvent for coatings, resins, and inks, and as a critical chemical intermediate for producing butyl acetate. Its unique properties also make it an effective humectant, fuel additive, and flavoring agent across the manufacturing, cosmetic, and food industries.

What is N-Butanol?

N-Butanol, also known as 1 butanol, or butyl alcohol, is an alcohol produced by petrochemical processes or fermentation of sugars derived from corn.

Applications of N-Butanol in the Manufacturing Industry

• It is used in plastics, polymers, lubricants, brake fluids, and  synthetic rubber.
• It can be used as a source of fuel.
• As an environmentally friendly and powerful solvent for cleaning and polishing products.
• N-Butanol is present in numerous beverages and food and it is used as an artificial food flavoring in the USA.

Applications of N-Butanol on the Cosmetic and Laboratory Industry

• Humectant for cellulose nitrate
• Used in the cosmetic industry as well in products such as shampoo, shaving products and soaps.
• As a chemical intermediate to create other vital compounds such as Glycol Ether, Acrylate Esters, Amino Resins, Acetates, and Animes.

One interesting fact about N-Butanol is that it is almost insoluble in water, but soluble in almost all other organic solvents.

Benefits of N-Butanol

• Can be used in gasoline engines without modification.
• High energy content.
• Low vapor pressure and low evaporation rate.
• Used as an intermediate to create other chemicals.
• Fewer emissions than regular fuel.

N-Butanol as a Source of Fuel

Did you know that N-Butanol is a better alternative to fuel rather than Ethanol? N-Butanol offers higher energy, it is more compatible with the gasoline structure, it does not absorb water from ambient air, and it is not corrosive.

Interested in using N-Butanol? Please call (800) 563-1305 or send an email to products@ecolink.com.