In the global industrial solvent market, n-Butyl Acetate (also known as Normal Butyl Acetate, CAS No. 123-86-4) stands out as a foundational medium-boiling ester. Characterized by its distinct sweet, fruity odor and exceptional solvency power, it serves as a critical component in high-performance coatings, adhesives, and chemical synthesis.
Physical and Chemical Profile
n-Butyl Acetate (C6H12O2) is produced commercially via the esterification of n-butanol with acetic acid in the presence of a catalyst. It bridges the gap between active solvents (like ketones) and diluents (like hydrocarbons), providing an optimal balance of evaporation rate and resin compatibility.
Below are the standard technical specifications required for industrial-grade procurement:
| Property | Typical Value / Specification |
| CAS Number | 123-86-4 |
| Chemical Formula | CH3COOCH2CH2CH2CH3 |
| Molecular Weight | 116.16 g/mol |
| Purity (GC) | ≥ 99.5% |
| Water Content (Karl Fischer) | ≤ 0.05% |
| Density (at 20°C) | 0.88 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point (1 atm) | 126 °C |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | 22°C (Class 3 Flammable Liquid) |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 10 |
Core Industrial Applications
The versatility of n-Butyl Acetate stems from its ability to dissolve a wide spectrum of resins, including nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate butyrate, acrylics, epoxies, alkyds, and polyurethanes.
High-Performance Coatings and Automotive Paints
In the coatings sector, n-Butyl Acetate is primarily utilized as a leveling and drying solvent. Its moderate evaporation rate (1.0 relative to n-butyl acetate as the standard benchmark) ensures that the film dries evenly without trapping moisture or air.
- Prevents “Blushing”: It resists moisture condensation during the drying process, preventing surface defects like cloudiness or blushing in lacquers.
- Automotive Refinishes: It promotes superior gloss, leveling, and flow in OEM and refinish clearcoats.
Polyurethane (PU) Systems
When sourcing solvents for polyurethanes, moisture control is critical. Standard industrial solvents with high water retention can react prematurely with isocyanate crosslinkers, forming carbon dioxide gas (CO2), which leads to pinholes and structural weaknesses in the cured film. High-purity n-Butyl Acetate (≤ 0.05% water) prevents these side reactions, making it the preferred choice for premium PU wood and industrial coatings.
Adhesives and Sealants
n-Butyl Acetate lowers the viscosity of polymer blends, allowing for smooth application in contact adhesives and structural sealants. Its rapid release from the polymer matrix ensures quick bond strength development once applied.
Pharmaceutical and Extraction Processes
Due to its low toxicity profile compared to chlorinated solvents, it is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as an extraction agent for organic compounds, antibiotics, and natural oils, as well as an ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
Technical Advantages in Formulations
Formulators choose n-Butyl Acetate over lower-cost alternatives due to two primary performance metrics:
The Evaporation Window Advantage: Lower-boiling solvents like Ethyl Acetate flash off too quickly, causing rough surface textures. Higher-boiling solvents like Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) or Polymaleic Acid (PMA) delay drying times excessively. n-Butyl Acetate provides the exact middle-ground “sweet spot,” allowing paint film particles to crosslink smoothly before complete evaporation.
- Dilution Ratio: It exhibits an excellent dilution ratio with cheap aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbon diluents, allowing formulators to optimize raw material costs without risking resin precipitation.
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Low Viscosity Contribution: It significantly reduces the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) viscosity of high-solids coatings, helping manufacturers meet modern environmental compliance regulations.
Supply Chain, Logistics, and Safety Insights
As a global commercial commodity, n-Butyl Acetate requires strict handling and logistics protocols due to its classification as a hazardous chemical.
- Packaging Options: Typically distributed in 200L steel drums (approx. 180 kg net weight) or via ISO Tanks (approx. 20-21 metric tons) for large-scale industrial buyers.
- Storage Conditions: Must be stored in cool, well-ventilated, flame-proof warehouses. Due to its propensity to slowly hydrolyze into acetic acid and n-butanol in the presence of moisture, nitrogen blanketing is highly recommended for long-term bulk storage to preserve purity and low acidity.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure your supplier provides fully updated SDS (Safety Data Sheets) compliant with GHS regulations, alongside complete packing certificates for maritime transport (IMDG Class 3, UN 1123).
Partner with a Trusted Global Supplier
When sourcing n-Butyl Acetate for international markets, chemical stability, packaging integrity, and strict adherence to purity specifications are non-negotiable. We deliver high-purity, industrial-grade n-Butyl Acetate tailored to the rigorous demands of global coatings and chemical manufacturing.
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