Butylglycol – A versatile ether glycol in laboratory and industrial chemistry
Butyl glycol, also known as 2-butoxyethanol, is an important glycol ether that is used in a wide range of applications in laboratory and industrial chemistry. As an organic solvent with specific physicochemical properties, it offers numerous advantages and finds broad application. In this blog post, we want to take a closer look at the properties and application possibilities of butyl glycol.
Physicochemical Properties of Butyl Glycol
Butyl glycol is a colorless, clear liquid with a characteristic odor. With a molar mass of 118.17 g/mol and a boiling point of about 171°C, it belongs to the medium-volatility organic solvents. Its density is approximately 0.9 g/cm³ at 20°C.
An important characteristic of butyl glycol is its good solubility in water as well as in many organic solvents. This property makes it a versatile solvent that is used in numerous formulations. Furthermore, butyl glycol is characterized by a relatively low surface tension, which improves wetting properties in applications such as coatings or cleaning processes.
Applications of Butyl Glycol
Due to its excellent solvent properties and compatibility with a wide range of materials, butyl glycol is used in numerous industrial sectors:
Paints, coatings, and finishes
Butyl glycol is frequently used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and finishes. It improves flow properties, increases wetting, and promotes film formation. Furthermore, it can function as a coalescing or thinning agent.
Cleaning agents
In industrial and household products such as cleaners, degreasers, or descalers, butyl glycol serves as an effective solvent mediator. It supports the removal of oils, fats, dirt, and encrustations.
Cosmetics and personal care
Butyl glycol is used in cosmetic products such as shampoos, creams, or lotions. Here it improves viscosity, skin compatibility, and formulation stability.
Printing inks and inks
As a solvent in printing inks and inks, butyl glycol improves flowability, wetting, and drying.
Agrochemicals
In plant protection products, fertilizers, and other agricultural products, butyl glycol serves as a solvent mediator and formulation aid.
Industrial cleaning
Butyl glycol is used in industrial cleaning processes to remove stubborn contaminants such as oils, fats, or resins.
Laboratory chemistry
In laboratory chemistry, butyl glycol is used as a solvent, extraction agent, or reaction medium for organic syntheses.
Polymer compatibility and safety aspects
Another important aspect of butyl glycol is its good compatibility with a wide range of polymers. It can therefore be used without problems in plastic formulations, dispersions, or adhesives without impairing material properties.
Regarding safety, it should be noted that butyl glycol is classified as harmful to health and can cause damage through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion. Therefore, appropriate protective measures must be taken during handling and storage.
Conclusion
Butyl glycol is a versatile and powerful ether glycol used in numerous applications in laboratory and industrial chemistry. Its excellent solvent properties, surface activity, and polymer compatibility make it a valuable aid in formulations, cleaning processes, and organic syntheses. However, handling butyl glycol requires special safety measures due to its harmful health effects.
