2-Methyl-1-propanol (isobutanol), CAS 78-83-1, is a branched-chain primary alcohol used as a solvent and chemical intermediate. This flammable, colorless liquid is a latent solvent in nitrocellulose lacquers, a viscosity reducer in alkyd resin paints, and a raw material for isobutyl acetate, isobutyl methacrylate and diisobutyl phthalate. Confirm the GC assay, water, isomer and impurity limits, packaging and documentation before ordering; COA, TDS and SDS are available on request.
2-Methyl-1-propanol CAS 78-83-1
- CAS: 78-83-1
- Synonyms: 2-Methyl-1-propanol; Isobutanol; Isobutyl alcohol; Isopropylcarbinol
- Einecs: 201-148-0
- Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₀O
- Grade: Industrial grade, purity ≥99.5%
- Package: Confirm packaging compatible with the offered form and destination requirements.
Product Description
Physicochemical Properties
| Parameter | Method |
| Appearance | Visual Inspection |
| Purity (GC) | Gas Chromatography |
| Color (Pt-Co) | Platinum-Cobalt Scale |
| Density (20°C) | Hydrometer |
| Water Content | Karl Fischer |
| Acidity (as Acetic Acid) | Titration |
| Distillation Range | Distillation |
| Non-volatile Matter | Gravimetric |
Applications
This versatile solvent and intermediate is widely applied across multiple industrial sectors:
Coatings & Solvents
- Lacquer Solvent: Acts as a latent solvent in nitrocellulose lacquers and a co-solvent in alkyd resin paints, improving flow and preventing blushing.
- Paint Thinners: Used to reduce viscosity in automotive topcoats and industrial maintenance coatings.
Chemical Synthesis
- Derivatives: The primary raw material for producing isobutyl acetate (solvent), isobutyl methacrylate (coating resin), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP plasticizer).
- Fuel Additives: utilized as an oxygenate additive in gasoline blending to reduce carbon monoxide emissions.
Extraction & Processing
- Extraction Agent: Used in the pharmaceutical industry for the extraction of antibiotics and hormones due to its specific solubility profile.
Quality Assurance (QA/QC)
To ensure downstream process stability, our quality control system enforces strict batch-to-batch consistency:
- Composition Analysis: Every lot is analyzed using Gas Chromatography (GC) to verify that the isomer content and purity meet the ≥ 99.5% standard.
- Moisture Control: Strictly controlled water content via Karl Fischer titration to prevent phase separation in solvent blends.
- System Compliance: Manufacturing and logistics follow documented quality and environmental management procedures.
Storage & Safety
Storage Conditions
- Flammability: Store in a dedicated flammable liquids storage area (Class 1B). Keep cool, dry, and well-ventilated.
- Grounding: Containers must be bonded and grounded during transfer to prevent static discharge ignition.
- Incompatibility: Keep separate from strong oxidizers, aluminum, and acid anhydrides.
Safety Handling & PPE
2-Methyl-1-propanol is Flammable and an Irritant.
- Ventilation: Use explosion-proof local exhaust ventilation to keep vapor concentrations below permissible exposure limits.
- Respiratory Protection: If limits are exceeded, use a full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridges.
- Skin & Eye Protection: Wear chemical-resistant gloves (Nitrile or Butyl rubber) and safety goggles. Avoid wearing contact lenses when handling this product.
- First Aid: If inhaled, move the person to fresh air. In case of eye contact, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
Are 2-Methyl-1-propanol, Isobutanol and Isobutyl Alcohol the same solvent?
A: Yes. These names identify the branched primary alcohol CAS 78-83-1. It is not n-butanol, sec-butanol or tert-butanol, which have different boiling, solvency and reaction profiles. Use the CAS number and isobutanol name on the quotation and order. -
Q:
What is Isobutanol used for?
A: It is used as a latent solvent in nitrocellulose lacquers and alkyd paints, in automotive and industrial maintenance coatings, and as a raw material for isobutyl acetate, isobutyl methacrylate and diisobutyl phthalate. It is also used as a fuel oxygenate and pharmaceutical extraction agent. -
Q:
Which specifications should be agreed for industrial Isobutanol?
A: Agree GC assay, water, colour, acidity, density or specific gravity, distillation range and limits for other butanol isomers, aldehydes and nonvolatile residue with the methods. Typical physical properties are useful for identification but are not sales specifications. -
Q:
What should be confirmed before bulk Isobutanol delivery?
A: Confirm drum, IBC or tank format, net quantity, water protection, seal condition, previous cargo where applicable, sampling, grounding and unloading connection. Isobutanol is a flammable liquid, so transport, storage and receiving controls must match the applicable flammable-liquid requirements. -
Q:
What are the typical physical properties of Isobutanol CAS 78-83-1?
A: Isobutanol is a colourless liquid with a boiling point near 108 C, density about 0.80-0.81 g/cm3 and partial water solubility of roughly 8-9 g per 100 mL. Its flash point is near 30 C, so treat it as a flammable liquid and compare offered lot data against the agreed specification.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.
