Butyl Glycol (2-Butoxyethanol)

Overview

Butyl Glycol (CAS No: 111-76-2), also known as 2-Butoxyethanol or Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, is a colorless liquid with a mild, sweet odor. This organic compound belongs to the glycol ether class and is widely used in industrial and domestic applications due to its excellent solvent properties.

Butyl Glycol is soluble in both water and many organic solvents, making it a versatile solvent. It is commonly preferred in cleaning products, paint thinners, coatings, and inks. Its moderate volatility and high solvency power make it particularly effective in surface coatings.

Applications

Butyl Glycol has a wide range of industrial and commercial applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Flammable Skin & Eye Irritant Respiratory & Skin Contact Risk

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Chemical resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Safety goggles or face shield
• Respiratory protection with organic vapor filter (high vapor concentrations)
• Chemical resistant protective clothing
• Use non-sparking tools and equipment

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area
• Keep away from ignition and spark sources
• Store in original sealed containers away from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing agents
• Storage temperature: 10-30°C
• Grounding required to prevent static electricity buildup

Firefighting Measures

• Suitable extinguishing media: Dry chemical, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam
• Water spray can be used for cooling
• Firefighters should use appropriate respiratory protection
• Use dry chemical or CO₂ for small fires
• Use alcohol-resistant foam or water spray for large fires
• Cool containers with water during firefighting

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
• Grounding required to prevent static electricity buildup
• Ensure adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling
• Label transport containers as "Flammable Liquid"
• Keep fire extinguishing equipment in transport vehicles

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
• Mark storage areas with "Flammable Liquid" signs
• Use proper breather vents on storage tanks
• Use explosion-proof electrical systems for large storage
• Prohibit smoking in storage areas
• Store separately from acids and oxidizing agents

Spill Response Measures

• Remove all ignition sources
• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spill with sand, chemical absorbent, or other materials
• Dispose of absorbed material appropriately
• Wash the affected area with plenty of water and detergent
• Contact professional cleanup services for large spills

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Flammable Liquid Category 3
• Skin Irritation Category 2
• Eye Irritation Category 2A
• Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3

Key Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• OSHA: Subject to Hazard Communication Standard
• NFPA 704: Health 2, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0
• EPA: Classified as VOC

International Legislation

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Subject to EPA VOC regulations
• China: Listed on IECSC
• Japan: Listed on ISHL

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Butyl Glycol degrades moderately in the atmosphere through photochemical reactions (half-life 1-2 days). If released into water bodies, it is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. It is biodegradable, but complete degradation may take several weeks.

Biodegradation

• Air: Half-life of 1-2 days through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 7-14 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Moderate degradation through microbial activity
• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): 1.2 g O₂/g
• Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): 2.1 g O₂/g

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities can be disposed of in licensed facilities through biological treatment
• Large quantities must be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations
• Must be carefully treated in wastewater treatment plants

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Butyl Glycol produced?

Butyl Glycol is produced through the reaction of ethylene oxide with n-butanol. High purity (>99%) products are obtained through catalytic processes.

What is the difference between Butyl Glycol and Butylene Glycol?

Butyl Glycol (C₆H₁₄O₂) is a glycol ether, while Butylene Glycol (C₄H₁₀O₂) is a diol. Butyl Glycol is predominantly used as an industrial solvent, whereas Butylene Glycol is preferred in cosmetic and moisturizing applications.

Is Butyl Glycol safe for skin contact?

Butyl Glycol is generally safe in low concentrations for skin contact, but prolonged or high concentration exposure may cause irritation. Wash thoroughly with plenty of water after skin contact.

What is the shelf life of Butyl Glycol?

When stored properly in sealed containers, Butyl Glycol has a shelf life of approximately 2-3 years. It should be protected from moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Can Butyl Glycol be used in food products?

No, Butyl Glycol is not used in the food industry. It is not approved as a food additive and may pose toxicity risks.