Butylene Glycol (1,3-Butanediol)

Overview

Butylene glycol (CAS No: 107-88-0), also known as 1,3-Butanediol, is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid. This organic compound has a faint sweetish odor and belongs to the diol group of multifunctional chemicals. It is a versatile substance widely used in the cosmetics, personal care and pharmaceutical industries.

Butylene glycol is miscible with water and many organic solvents. This property makes it indispensable in cosmetic formulations, pharmaceutical carrier systems and industrial applications. Due to its low toxicity and good tolerability, it is frequently preferred in skin care products.

Applications

Butylene glycol has a wide variety of cosmetic, pharmaceutical and industrial applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Eye irritation Avoid prolonged skin contact

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Protective eyewear (against splash risk)
• Laboratory coat or protective clothing
• Ensure adequate ventilation

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place
• Keep in original closed containers, protected from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing agents
• Storage temperature: 15-30°C
• Store in stainless steel, glass or polyethylene containers

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam or water mist
• Use appropriate respiratory protection when using fire extinguishing equipment
• Use water mist or alcohol-resistant foam for large fires
• Combustion products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and other organic compounds

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during handling
• Provide adequate ventilation in handling areas
• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking during handling
• Take precautions against spillage
• Ground to prevent static electricity buildup

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene or glass containers
• Keep "Non-Corrosive" signs in storage area
• Use appropriate breathing vents in storage tanks
• Take secondary containment measures for large quantities
• No smoking allowed in storage area

Spillage Measures

• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spillage with sand, chemical sponge or other absorbent materials
• Dispose of absorbed material appropriately
• Wash spilled area with plenty of water and detergent
• Prevent spillage from entering sewers or water sources

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

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

Important Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• FDA: Food contact approved (21 CFR 175.300)
• Cosmetics Regulation: Permitted
• NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0

International Legislation

• European Union: Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009
• USA: Approved by FDA as food additive (E1520)
• China: Listed in IECSC
• Japan: Listed in ISHL

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Butylene glycol degrades rapidly in nature and is biodegradable. In case of release into water sources, it shows low toxicity to aquatic organisms. Due to its high water solubility, it does not persist in aquatic environments.

Biological Degradation

• Air: 1-5 day half-life through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 1-3 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Rapid degradation through microbial activity
• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): 60% (28 days)
• Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): 1.78 g O₂/g

Waste Management

• Not classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities can be diluted with plenty of water and discharged to sewer
• Large quantities should be incinerated at licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations
• Easily degraded in wastewater treatment plants

Frequently Asked Questions

How is butylene glycol produced?

Butylene glycol is mainly produced through the catalytic reaction of acetaldehyde and formaldehyde. The resulting intermediate is then hydrogenated to obtain 1,3-butanediol. Industrial scale production typically achieves high purity (≥99.5%).

What is the difference between butylene glycol and propylene glycol?

Butylene glycol (C4H10O2) is a four-carbon diol while propylene glycol (C3H8O2) is a three-carbon diol. Butylene glycol has a higher boiling point and lower vapor pressure. In cosmetics, butylene glycol is considered a better solvent and carrier.

Is butylene glycol safe for skin?

Yes, butylene glycol is generally considered safe for skin and has low irritation potential. It can be safely used in cosmetic products at concentrations up to 5%. In rare cases, it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

What is the shelf life of butylene glycol?

When stored in properly closed containers, butylene glycol has a shelf life of approximately 2 years. However, properties may change over time due to water absorption in open containers. Store in cool, dry and dark environments.

Can butylene glycol be used in foods?

Yes, food-grade butylene glycol with E1520 code can be used as a humectant and solvent in the food industry. It is approved by the FDA as a food additive.