Butan-1-ol

C4H10O

butan-1-ol

CAS71-36-3
GHS02 Gefahrensymbol: Entzündbar – Flamme
GHS07 Gefahrensymbol: Gesundheitsschädlich/Reizend – Ausrufezeichen
GHS05 Gefahrensymbol: Ätzend – Ätzwirkung
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
71-36-3
EC Number
200-751-6
UN Number
1120
Index Number
603-004-00-6
PubChem CID
263

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
C4H10O
Molar Mass
74.12 g/mol
IUPAC Name
butan-1-ol

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/C4H10O/c1-2-3-4-5/h5H,2-4H2,1H3
InChI Key
LRHPLDYGYMQRHN-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

Butan-1-ol (CAS 71-36-3) is a primary alcohol with four carbon atoms, commonly used as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. This linear primary alcohol, also known as 1-butanol or n-butanol, represents one of the most important C4 alcohols in industrial chemistry. With its molecular formula C4H10O and molecular weight of 74.12 g/mol, butan-1-ol exhibits the characteristic properties of primary alcohols while offering excellent solvent capabilities for both polar and moderately non-polar substances. The compound appears as a colorless liquid with a characteristic alcoholic odor and demonstrates good miscibility with many organic solvents, though it has limited water solubility compared to lower alcohols. From a safety perspective, butan-1-ol requires careful handling due to its classification as a flammable liquid (Class 3) and its potential health hazards. The substance carries danger pictograms including GHS02 (flame), GHS05 (corrosion), and GHS07 (exclamation mark), reflecting its flammable nature, eye damage potential, and acute toxicity concerns. Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment are essential when working with this chemical, particularly given its ability to cause serious eye damage and skin irritation. Industrial applications of butan-1-ol span multiple sectors, including its use as a solvent in coatings, inks, and adhesives, as well as a chemical intermediate in the production of butyl acetate and other esters. The compound also finds application in the manufacture of plasticizers and serves as an extraction solvent in various processes. Unlike related compounds such as N',N'-diethylpropane-1,3-diamine, butan-1-ol's primary alcohol functionality makes it particularly valuable for esterification reactions and as a hydroxyl-containing building block. OYSI provides reliable access to high-quality butan-1-ol for European industrial customers, supporting diverse manufacturing and processing applications across the chemical industry.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Flam. Liq. 3; Acute Tox. 4 *; STOT SE 3; STOT SE 3; Skin Irrit. 2; Eye Dam. 1

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H226

Flammable liquid and vapour.

H302

Harmful if swallowed.

H335

May cause respiratory irritation.

H336

May cause drowsiness or dizziness.

H315

Causes skin irritation.

H318

Causes serious eye damage.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Inhalation

Irritant

Measures if vapours or dust are inhaled

First Aid Actions

  • +P304IF INHALED:
  • +P340Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
  • +P311Call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

Skin Contact

Irritant

Measures if substance contacts the skin

First Aid Actions

  • +P302IF ON SKIN:
  • +P352Wash with plenty of water.
  • +P361Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Eye Contact

Harmful

Measures if substance gets into the eyes

First Aid Actions

  • +P305IF IN EYES:
  • +P351Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
  • +P338Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Ingestion

Harmful

Measures if substance is accidentally swallowed

First Aid Actions

  • +P301IF SWALLOWED:
  • +P330Rinse mouth.
  • +P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • +P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number1120
ADR Class3
Packing GroupIII
Tunnel CodeD/E
Proper Shipping Namen-Butanol
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is butan-1-ol?

Butan-1-ol is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula C4H10O and CAS number 71-36-3. It is a four-carbon straight-chain alcohol with a molecular weight of 74.12 g/mol. This organic compound belongs to the butanol family and is classified as a flammable liquid with moderate toxicity. Butan-1-ol appears as a colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor and is partially soluble in water while being miscible with most organic solvents.

What are the physicochemical properties of butan-1-ol?

Butan-1-ol is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a characteristic mild, sweet alcohol odor. It has moderate solubility in water due to its hydroxyl group while being miscible with most organic solvents. The compound has a boiling point around 117°C and a flash point of approximately 37°C, making it a flammable liquid. Its density is lower than water, and it exhibits typical primary alcohol chemical reactivity including oxidation and esterification reactions.

What is butan-1-ol used for?

Butan-1-ol is used primarily as a solvent in paints, coatings, and adhesives due to its excellent dissolving properties. It serves as an intermediate in chemical synthesis for producing esters, ethers, and other organic compounds. The compound is also utilized in the manufacturing of plasticizers, particularly butyl phthalates, and as a component in hydraulic fluids. Additionally, it finds applications in the production of artificial flavors and fragrances in the food and cosmetic industries.

How to handle butan-1-ol safely?

Butan-1-ol requires careful handling due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent vapor accumulation and avoid all ignition sources. The compound can cause skin and eye irritation, so minimize direct contact. Work in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods, and have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment readily available during handling operations.

How to store butan-1-ol correctly?

Butan-1-ol must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. Keep containers tightly closed and store in original packaging or compatible containers made of appropriate materials. The storage area should be equipped with fire suppression systems and maintained below 25°C when possible. Avoid storage near strong oxidizing agents and ensure proper grounding of containers to prevent static electricity buildup during transfer operations.

What to do in case of contact with butan-1-ol?

Butan-1-ol exposure requires immediate action depending on the route of contact. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, flush immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention due to potential eye damage. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. Always consult safety data sheets for specific first aid measures.

How to dispose of butan-1-ol appropriately?

Butan-1-ol disposal must comply with local and European waste regulations as it is classified as hazardous waste. The compound should be collected in appropriate containers and disposed of through licensed hazardous waste disposal companies. Do not pour down drains or dispose of in regular waste streams. Small quantities may be suitable for solvent recovery or incineration in approved facilities. Always consult local environmental authorities and follow waste classification codes for proper disposal documentation and handling.

How to transport butan-1-ol?

Butan-1-ol is classified under ADR as Class 3 (flammable liquids), Packing Group III, indicating moderate danger during transport. It requires appropriate UN-approved packaging and proper hazard labels including flammable liquid markings. Transport vehicles must comply with ADR regulations for flammable liquids, including proper ventilation and fire safety equipment. Drivers require ADR training certification, and transport documents must include proper shipping names and emergency response information according to European dangerous goods transport regulations.

Is butan-1-ol subject to specific regulations?

Butan-1-ol is subject to European REACH regulation requiring registration for commercial use and CLP regulation for classification and labeling. It carries hazard classifications including flammable liquid, acute toxicity, skin irritation, eye damage, and specific target organ toxicity. The compound is not currently listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). Users must comply with workplace exposure limits, proper labeling requirements, and safety data sheet provisions. Industrial users may need to implement risk management measures based on exposure scenarios.

Where to buy butan-1-ol in Europe?

Butan-1-ol is available through OYSI, a European chemical distributor specializing in industrial chemicals and solvents. OYSI provides quality-assured butan-1-ol with complete regulatory documentation including safety data sheets and certificates of analysis. As a professional chemical supplier, OYSI ensures compliance with European regulations and offers technical support for industrial applications. Contact OYSI directly for product availability, specifications, packaging options, and delivery throughout Europe for your butan-1-ol requirements.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.