2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol 99%+ shows up as a high-purity chemical compound known for its distinct structure and dependable performance in specialty applications. This chemical carries the molecular formula of C9H20O2, blending the stability of a diol with a branched carbon backbone. Chemists and manufacturers reach for this compound due to its versatile use in different industrial fields and its efficient chemical properties.
Looking at the molecule, 2-ethyl and 2-butyl groups attach at the central carbon of a propane-1,3-diol core. This molecular branching provides physical resilience and helps the diol maintain form whether in solid or liquid state. The molecular weight stands at around 160.25 g/mol. Its crystalline structure shows up in laboratory conditions, but the compound can also appear as flakes or fine powder under controlled solvent removal. For those using chemical identifiers, the HS Code typically falls under 290539, grouping it with aliphatic polyhydric alcohols.
With purity reaching 99% or higher, 2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol delivers both quality and consistency. The appearance can shift between colorless crystals, flaky solid, or fine powder, and some sourcing runs produce small pearls or a slightly viscous liquid, depending on temperature. The density typically measures around 0.94 g/cm3 at 20°C, a number that aligns closely with other diols but signals greater bulk than straight-chain relatives. Given its moderate melting point and stability, this material stores well and handles transportation without much incident. In solution, it dissolves readily in polar solvents and forms clear blends with other polyols.
2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol responds to the same basic reactions as other diols but with increased steric hindrance given the two branched alkyl groups. This feature blocks over-rapid reaction and increases the lifespan of end products that count on this stabilizing effect. Chemists use the compound in polyurethanes, plasticizers, and specialty resins. The branched structure offers resistance to both hydrolysis and oxidation, making it a strong candidate in coatings or systems exposed to the elements. Its low volatility keeps it present in mixtures longer, which adds value in adhesive and sealant formulations.
Producers offer 2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol in multiple forms, each with a specific target. Flakes and crystals offer easy handling and precision measuring in lab and pilot plant settings. Pearls, shaped for even dosing, reduce dust and minimize cloud formation during bulk addition. Solid powder—favored in some blending operations—flows readily and packs tight. Liquid forms remain rare but serve niche uses, like low-melting-point blends or solvent-free systems that require a precise rheology.
Suppliers stake reputations on material that checks in at above 99% purity, with water and other glycol contaminants below 0.5%. Packaging tends to use sealed drums lined with inert materials to avoid cross-contamination and safeguard the solid or powdered form during transit. Product arrives in weights ranging from 25 kg up to several hundred liters when melted for bulk use. Typical spec sheets disclose melting range—often around 46-52°C—and a boiling point over 250°C (measured at standard pressure).
Working with this chemical means following rigorous protocols. As with other synthetic diols, direct skin contact or inhalation may cause mild irritation, especially for workers with allergies or sensitive skin. Unlike highly volatile solvents, this chemical poses a lower respiratory risk, but protective gloves and glasses cut down on workplace accidents. The material rarely triggers acute hazardous responses at industrial concentrations, though environmental release must be avoided. Local, national, and international bodies classify the chemical as non-hazardous for transportation, with clear labeling and tracking required by responsible shippers. The HS Code 290539 simplifies customs and inspection processes but does not remove the need for clear safety data sheets.
Sourcing high-purity raw materials underpins steady downstream chemical production. Many manufacturers leverage this diol as a building block in high-performance plastics, especially polyurethane systems demanding low fog and long-term stability. The presence of branched alkyl groups makes for improved wear resistance and weathering, which feeds into greener, longer-lasting materials. Companies facing stricter health or performance mandates use 2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol to upgrade blends and outperform traditional glycols. From personal experience, teams working with this compound tend to report fewer blend issues and less need for second-stage purification.
Companies refining or upgrading their synthetic routes often face solvent residue and by-product build-up. Using high-purity 2-Ethyl-2-butyl-1,3-propanediol removes some of this guesswork—as a clean building block, it stands up to demanding quality audits and moves production closer to zero-defect status. Some suppliers focus on crystallization improvements to secure uniform flakes and steadier melting traits, while others use closed-loop processing and in-line monitoring to push purity even higher. Regulatory clarity keeps both producers and end users aligned on safe shipping and material disclosure. Research into more energy-efficient synthesis methods, along with more robust recycling of containers and minor waste, continues to help lower the ecological footprint of this foundational chemical.
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