1. Chemical Structure and Properties

Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₄O

Structural Formula:
(CH₃)₂CHCH₂CH(OH)CH₃
A branched-chain secondary alcohol with a hydroxyl group on the tertiary carbon.

Physical Properties:
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid with a mild, sweet odor.
Boiling Point: 131–132°C; Density: 0.81 g/cm³; Vapor Pressure: 2.3 mmHg at 25°C.
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (3.5 g/L at 20°C); miscible with most organic solvents (ethanol, ether).

Chemical Properties:
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; oxidizes to form ketones (e.g., methyl isobutyl ketone).
Flammability: Combustible liquid (flash point: 41°C).
Hydrogen Bonding: Moderate polarity due to hydroxyl group (log P: 1.5).

2. Industrial Applications

Mining & Mineral Processing:
Froth Flotation: Key frother for separating sulfide ores (e.g., copper, zinc) by stabilizing air bubbles.
Coal Processing: Enhances coal particle separation in flotation cells.

Coatings & Inks:
High-Boiling Solvent: Improves flow and leveling in automotive paints and printing inks.

Chemical Synthesis:
Intermediate: Produces plasticizers, lubricant additives, and surfactants.

Pharmaceuticals:
Extraction Agent: Isolates alkaloids and steroids from plant extracts.

3. Safety and Toxicology

Health Hazards:
Acute Exposure:
Inhalation (≥50 ppm): Irritates respiratory tract; dizziness (TLV-TWA: 25 ppm).
Skin Contact: Causes dryness and dermatitis (rabbit skin LD₅₀: 2,000 mg/kg).
Ingestion: Moderately toxic (oral LD₅₀ rat: 1,600 mg/kg).

Chronic Effects:
Neurotoxicity: Prolonged exposure linked to peripheral neuropathy in animal studies.
Reproductive Effects: Limited evidence of developmental toxicity (OECD 422 compliant).

Protection Measures:
PPE: Nitrile gloves, vapor respirators, chemical goggles.
Storage: Fireproof containers in cool, ventilated areas away from oxidizers.

4. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Environmental Impact:
Aquatic Toxicity: LC₅₀ (fish, 96h): 50–100 mg/L; EC₅₀ (daphnia): 10–50 mg/L.
Biodegradability: Moderate (OECD 301F: 60% degradation in 28 days).
Persistence: Low bioaccumulation potential (log Kow: 1.5).

Regulatory Frameworks:
EU:
CLP Regulation: Classified as Flammable Liquid (Category 3), Eye Irrit. 2 (H319).
REACH: Registered with SDS requirements for occupational exposure limits.
USA:
OSHA PEL: 25 ppm (8-hour TWA); EPA: Listed on Toxic Release Inventory (TRI).
China:
GB 13690-2009: Classified as Hazardous Chemical (Class 3.3).

Transport:
UN Number: UN 2053; Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable Liquid), Packing Group III.

5. Case Studies and Application Insights

Case 1: Copper Ore Flotation in Chile (2023):
Application: MIBC (15–20 ppm) increased copper recovery by 12% in Codelco’s flotation cells.
Efficiency: Reduced frother consumption by 25% vs. polyglycol-based alternatives.

Case 2: Automotive Paint Formulation:
Process: BASF replaced ethylene glycol ethers with MIBC in waterborne coatings.
Result: 20% faster drying time and improved gloss retention at 40°C.

Comparative Analysis:
MIBC vs. Pine Oil in Flotation:
Pros: Higher selectivity for sulfide ores; lower environmental persistence.
Cons: Higher flammability risk compared to pine oil’s higher flash point.