Butylene glycol (C4H10O2) is a common ingredient in skincare products that helps to keep them moisturized. It also has some antimicrobial properties and can enhance the penetration of other active ingredients.
| IUPAC Name | butane-1,3-diol |
| Molecular Formula | C4H10O2 |
| CAS Number | 107-88-0 |
| Synonyms | 1,3-Butanediol, 1,3-Dihydroxybutane, Butanediol, Butane-1,3-diol, Butoxydiethylene glycol, Dihydroxybutane, Tetramethylene glycol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C4H10O2/c1-2-4(6)3-5/h4-6H,2-3H2,1H3 |
Butylene Glycol Properties
Butylene Glycol Molar Mass
The molar mass of butanediol is approximately 90.12 g/mol. It is a diol compound with two hydroxyl groups that belong to the alcohol functional group. Molar mass is an important parameter for determining the physical and chemical properties of any substance. It is also useful in calculating the amount of substance present in a given sample.
Butylene Glycol Boiling Point
The boiling point of butanediol is around 235 °C (455 °F). It is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a relatively high boiling point. The boiling point is the temperature at which a liquid boils and vaporizes into the gas phase. The boiling point of a substance depends on various factors such as pressure, molecular weight, and intermolecular forces.
Butylene Glycol Melting Point
The melting point of butanediol is approximately -112 °C (-170 °F). It is a low melting point compound due to its relatively weak intermolecular forces. The melting point is the temperature at which a solid transitions into a liquid. It is an important parameter for determining the purity and identity of a substance.
Butylene Glycol Density g/mL
The density of butanediol is around 1.02 g/mL. It is a relatively dense liquid that is slightly heavier than water. Density is an important physical property that is used to determine the purity, concentration, and identity of a substance. It is also useful in various calculations such as mass and volume.
Butylene Glycol Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of butanediol is approximately 90.12 g/mol. It is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms present in a molecule. Molecular weight is an important parameter for determining the physical and chemical properties of a substance. It is also useful in calculating the amount of substance present in a given sample.
Butylene Glycol Structure
Butanediol has a linear structure with two hydroxyls (-OH) groups attached to the carbon atoms at positions 1 and 3. It belongs to the family of diol compounds and is a colorless, viscous liquid. The molecular structure of butanediol is useful in determining its physical and chemical properties, as well as its reactivity with other substances.
Butylene Glycol Formula
The chemical formula of butylene glycol is C4H10O2. It is a diol compound with two hydroxyl groups that belong to the alcohol functional group. Chemical formulas are important for identifying the elemental composition of a substance, as well as its chemical properties and reactivity.
| Appearance | Colorless to slightly yellowish liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.01-1.03 g/cm3 at 20°C |
| Color | Colorless to slightly yellowish |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 90.12 g/mol |
| Density | 1.02 g/mL at 20°C |
| Melting Point | -112°C (-170°F) |
| Boiling Point | 235°C (455°F) |
| Flash Point | 130°C (266°F) |
| Water Solubility | Miscible |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone |
| Vapour Pressure | 0.0038 mmHg at 25°C |
| Vapour Density | 3.1 (vs air) |
| pKa | 14.45 (at 25°C) |
| pH | 5.5 – 7.5 (at 25°C) |
Butylene Glycol Safety and Hazards
Butanediol is considered a relatively safe compound with low toxicity. It is not classified as a hazardous substance under most regulatory frameworks. However, like all chemicals, it should be handled with care and proper safety measures should be taken to avoid any potential risks. Butanediol may cause mild irritation to the skin and eyes, and inhalation of its vapors may cause respiratory irritation. It is also flammable and may pose a fire hazard if exposed to high heat or flames. Overall, when handled and used properly, butanediol is a safe compound for a variety of applications.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | S24/25 – Avoid contact with skin and eyes; S36/37/39 – Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection; S26 – In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice; S23 – Do not breathe vapour/spray; S16 – Keep away from sources of ignition; S7/9 – Keep container tightly closed and in a well-ventilated place |
| UN IDs | UN3082 |
| HS Code | 290539 |
| Hazard Class | 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous goods |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | LD50 (oral, rat): >5000 mg/kg; LD50 (dermal, rabbit): >2000 mg/kg |
Butylene Glycol Synthesis Methods
Several methods can synthesize butanediol.
One common method is the hydration of 1,3-butadiene, which produces a mixture of butanediol and other byproducts such as tetrahydrofuran and 1,4-butanediol. To obtain pure butanediol, one can separate and purify the mixture.
Another method involves the hydrogenation of maleic anhydride, which produces 1,4-butanediol as the primary product, butanediol as a secondary product, and tetrahydrofuran as a byproduct. One can separate and purify butanediol through distillation.
The reaction between formaldehyde and acetaldehyde produces butanediol and water as the primary products, synthesizing butanediol. This reaction requires the presence of a catalyst such as calcium hydroxide or magnesium oxide.
The process to produce butanediol involves oxidizing 1,3-butadiene with the presence of a catalyst such as cobalt or copper, using air or oxygen. The process produces a mixture of butanediol and other byproducts, which a person can separate and purify to obtain pure butanediol.
Butylene Glycol Uses
Butanediol is a versatile compound that finds use in a variety of applications across different industries. Here are some of the most common uses of butanediol:
- Skincare and personal care products: Common ingredients in skincare and personal care products such as lotions, creams, and moisturizers. It acts as a humectant, helping to keep the skin hydrated and moisturized.
- Food and beverages: Used as a flavoring agent and solvent in food and beverage applications. Certain products can have their shelf life extended by using it as a preservative.
- Industrial applications: Used as a solvent in the production of resins, plastics, and other industrial products. Airplane wings can also use it as a de-icing agent.
- Pharmaceutical applications: Used as a solvent and diluent in the production of certain pharmaceutical products. Some vaccines can use it as a component.
- Textile industry: Used in the production of synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon. Fabrics can also use it as a dyeing and finishing agent.
Questions:
Q: What is butylene glycol?
A: Butanediol is a clear, odorless, and colorless organic compound that belongs to the class of diols or glycols. It is commonly used in a variety of industries such as skincare, food, and textiles due to its versatile properties.
Q: Is butylene glycol bad for the skin?
A: Butanediol is generally considered safe for use in skincare products. However, some individuals may have a sensitivity or allergy to this ingredient, which can cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new skincare product containing butanediol.
Q: What is butylene glycol in skincare?
A: Butanediol is a common ingredient in skincare products such as moisturizers, serums, and cleansers. It acts as a humectant, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin, which can help to improve skin hydration and texture.
Q: Is butylene glycol bad for your skin?
A: Butanediol is generally safe for use in skincare products, but some individuals may have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to this ingredient. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product containing butanediol.
Q: Is butylene glycol good for the skin?
A: Butanediol can be beneficial for the skin due to its ability to act as a humectant, which helps to keep the skin hydrated and moisturized. It can also help to improve the texture and appearance of the skin by smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. However, as with any skincare ingredient, individual results may vary.