Isobutanol (2-Methylpropan-1-ol; Isobutyl Alcohol)

   CAS No.: 78-83-1
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: 2-Methylpropan-1-ol; Isobutanol; Isobutyl alcohol
   Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₀O
   Molecular Weight: 74.12 g/mol

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid with a sweet, musty odor
• Melting / Freezing Point: Approximately –93.9 °C
• Boiling Point: Approximately 108 °C
• Density (20 °C): ~0.80 g/cm³
• Flash Point (Closed Cup): ~30 °C
• Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water (~87 g/L at 20 °C); miscible with many organic solvents
• Vapour Density (Air = 1): ~2.5
• Explosive Limits: Lower ≈1.2% by volume; Upper ≈10.9% by volume

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Purity: ≥ 99.0% for high-grade material
• Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid, free from visible particles or haze
• Analytical Methods: Gas chromatography for purity; moisture content measured; Certificate of Analysis (COA) provided
• Stability: Stable under recommended storage and handling conditions

Applications / Uses

• Solvent in coatings, adhesives, sealants, inks, and cleaning fluids
• Intermediate in chemical synthesis, including the manufacture of esters (e.g., isobutyl acetate) and other specialty chemicals
• Used in formulations for personal care, fragrance, and other industrial applications requiring branched primary alcohols

Safety & Handling

• Classification: Flammable liquid and vapour; may cause skin and eye irritation; vapours may cause respiratory irritation or drowsiness
• Health Effects:
• Inhalation: Vapour may cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, or headache
• Skin Contact: May cause irritation, dryness, or cracking with repeated exposure
• Eye Contact: Causes serious eye irritation
• Precautions:
• Use in well-ventilated areas or with local exhaust ventilation
• Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces; ground and bond containers during transfer
• Wear suitable protective gloves, eye/face protection, and appropriate protective clothing
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities:
• Avoid strong oxidisers; vapour may form explosive mixtures with air
• Ensure containers are tightly sealed and explosion-proof equipment is used
• First Aid Measures:
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; keep at rest; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
• Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash thoroughly with soap and water
• Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present; seek medical attention
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed solvent-compatible containers suitable for flammable liquids (e.g., steel drums or lined containers)
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, ignition sources, and incompatible materials
• Container Closure: Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to minimise vapour loss and contamination
• Shelf Life: Typically 12–24 months under recommended storage conditions; product may degrade or form impurities if exposed to heat, direct sunlight, or moisture