1-Butanol: Structure, Uses, Production, and Safety
1-Butanol, also known as n-butanol, is a versatile organic compound belonging to the alcohol family. It is widely used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries. As a primary alcohol, it has a straight-chain structure and possesses both polar and non-polar characteristics, making it a useful solvent and chemical intermediate.
Chemical Profile of 1-Butanol
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Chemical Formula: C₄H₉OH
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Molecular Weight: 74.12 g/mol
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Structure: CH₃–CH₂–CH₂–CH₂–OH
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Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
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Odor: Characteristic alcohol-like smell
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Boiling Point: Approximately 117°C (243°F)
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Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; fully miscible with most organic solvents
Production of 1-Butanol
1. Petrochemical Route (Oxosynthesis)
The most common industrial method for producing 1-butanol is the hydroformylation of propylene to form butyraldehyde, which is then hydrogenated to produce 1-butanol.
Steps:
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Propylene + CO + H₂ → Butyraldehyde (via hydroformylation)
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Butyraldehyde + H₂ → 1-Butanol (via hydrogenation)
This process is efficient and widely used in large-scale chemical production.
2. Fermentation (Biobutanol)
An alternative, more sustainable method involves A.B.E. fermentation (Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol) using bacteria such as Clostridium acetobutylicum. This method is gaining interest due to the push for bio-based fuels and chemicals.
Applications of 1-Butanol
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Solvent
1-Butanol is a common solvent in the production of coatings, resins, dyes, inks, and pharmaceuticals due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances. -
Intermediate in Chemical Synthesis
It is used to manufacture butyl acrylate, butyl acetate, plasticizers, and other esters that serve in various industries including paints and plastics. -
Fuel and Fuel Additive
Due to its high energy content and low volatility compared to ethanol, 1-butanol is being researched as a biofuel or gasoline additive. -
Laboratory Reagent
It is used as a reagent and solvent in organic synthesis, chromatography, and chemical research. -
Consumer Products
Small quantities of 1-butanol may be found in perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning products, due to its moderate volatility and solvency.
Comparison with Isomers
1-Butanol has several structural isomers, including:
Each isomer has different properties and uses, though they share the same molecular formula (C₄H₁₀O).
Safety and Handling
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Flammability: Highly flammable; vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
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Health Effects: May cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Inhalation of high concentrations can lead to dizziness or central nervous system effects.
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Personal Protection: Use gloves, goggles, and work in a well-ventilated area when handling.
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Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers, away from heat sources and oxidizing agents.
While 1-butanol is not classified as a carcinogen, it should still be handled with appropriate care in industrial or laboratory environments.
Environmental Impact
1-Butanol is biodegradable and generally considered to have a low environmental persistence. However, its production and use should still be managed responsibly to prevent air and water contamination.
Conclusion
1-Butanol is an important chemical compound with diverse industrial applications. Whether used as a solvent, fuel additive, or precursor for other chemicals, its physical and chemical properties make it a valuable asset in modern manufacturing and research. As interest in bio-based alternatives grows, biobutanol may play an increasingly significant role in creating sustainable chemical pathways.
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