Butyl Cellosolve

BUTYL CELLOSOLVE CHEMICAL

Also known as Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, Butyl Glycol, or BCS, Butyl Cellosolve is a chemical solvent widely used for cleaning applications.

Distributor: Nam Binh Chemical Co., Ltd.

WHAT IS BUTYL CELLOSOLVE?

Butyl Cellosolve (BCS) is a colorless liquid with a sweet taste and a mild ether-like odor, resembling glycol. It is infinitely soluble in water and easily diluted or dissolved in alcohol, acetone, chloroform, and other solvents. BCS has a slow evaporation rate and is highly flammable when exposed to heat.

This chemical is compatible with various types of plastics and is commonly used in cleaning solutions, making it highly effective for removing stubborn stains. Other applications include acrylic resins, asphalt compounds, firefighting foams, liquid soaps, herbicides, and rubber-based paints. However, some isomers of Cellosolve may be toxic upon contact or exposure.

PROPERTIES OF BUTYL CELLOSOLVE

• CAS Number: 111-76-2
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 118.17 g/mol
• Density: 0.791 g/cm³
• Freezing Point: -77°C
• Boiling Point: 171°C
• Vapor Pressure: 0.1 kPa (at 20°C)

PRODUCTION PROCESS

Butyl Cellosolve is primarily produced through the reaction of n-butyl alcohol with ethylene oxide at temperatures ranging from 150-200°C and pressures between 2-4 MPa, often catalyzed by acids or alkalis.

Chemical Reactions:

CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂OH + (CH₂CH₂)O → CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂OCH₂CH₂OH + H₂O
or
C₂H₄O + BuOH → BuOC₂H₄OH

APPLICATIONS OF BUTYL CELLOSOLVE

Industrial Cleaning

• Due to its ability to dissolve both mineral oil and water-soluble compounds, Butyl Cellosolve is a key ingredient in industrial cleaning products and degreasers.
• Often used as a solvent in metal cleaning solutions.

Paints and Coatings

• Used as a solvent in varnishes and alkyd resin-based paints.
• Essential for formulating lacquers, enamels, and rubber-based paints to improve flow and smoothness.
• Enhances water resistance in waterproof coatings.
• Used as a thinner in nitrocellulose-based paints.
• Prevents mold growth in paints while extending drying time.

Pesticides and Printing Inks

• Used as a solvent for industrial pesticides.
• Applied in the textile printing industry to prevent ink smudging and uneven coloring.

Household and Industrial Cleaning Products

• Contains 2-butoxyethanol, a crucial component in degreasers, dry soaps, herbicides, and latex paints.
• Helps break down grease and oils, making it effective in dishwashing liquids and heavy-duty cleaners.

SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Impact on the Environment

• Butyl Cellosolve is not considered highly polluting, as it naturally decomposes in the air within 3 to 4 days.
• However, it can accumulate in biological systems, posing risks to ecosystems.

Health Hazards

• Studies have shown that exposure to high concentrations of 100-500 ppm can cause adrenal gland tumors in animals, potentially leading to cancer with long-term exposure.
• However, Butyl Cellosolve is not officially classified as a carcinogen.

Effects on Humans

• Inhalation: Prolonged exposure can cause respiratory issues such as throat irritation.
• Skin and Oral Contact: Can lead to low blood pressure, hemolysis (red blood cell damage), pulmonary edema, and even coma in severe cases.
• Many countries, including Vietnam, have set an occupational exposure limit of 20 ppm in industrial environments.
• Advanced medical technologies can now detect Butyl Cellosolve levels in the human body for diagnosis and treatment.

Workplace Safety Regulations

• Companies must inform employees about the presence of Butyl Cellosolve in the workplace to ensure proper safety measures.
• Workers should be equipped with protective gear such as gloves, masks, and safety clothing when handling this chemical.