Polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether belongs to the family of polyether compounds, produced by reacting propylene oxide with butanol as the initiator. This chemical, with the molecular formula C73H154O23, adds value to countless industrial and commercial products. Its backbone shows a structure of repeating propylene oxide units capped with a butyl group. This arrangement gives it a flexible, moderate molecular weight, making it easy to manipulate for customized solutions.
You can expect this ether as a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. It rarely presents as solid, flake, or powder due to its high polyether length and low melting point. Sometimes a faint odor comes with it, evidence of its organic roots. Its density hovers around 1.025 g/cm3 at 25°C, heavier than water but still easy to blend in most liquid systems. Viscosity sits between 800 and 1,300 mPa·s, giving users reliable flow, particularly for industrial fluids and formulations where lubricity or controlled migration are needed.
Industry specifications call for rigorous purity, specific gravity, and water content measurements. Professionals rely on clear liquids free from particulates, with water content below 0.2% and hydroxyl values in a specific window. These targets let manufacturers avoid inconsistent blending and dangerous side reactions. Its HS Code, an international system for tariff classification, is typically 29094990, covering ethers valued in specialty and chemical processing. Molecular weight averages around 1,200–1,500 Da for this grade, but sample-to-sample variation always exists, depending on supplier technology and batch precision.
What sets polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether apart comes down to its tight molecular structure. Chains of propylene oxide units, with roughly 22 repeating units, give its backbone flexibility. The butyl end prevents rapid evaporation and enhances solubility with organic compounds—an upgrade for anyone blending lubricants or hydraulic fluids. The specific blend of ether linkages means high stability against acids and bases, which makes it a favorite in aggressive or challenging formulations. You’ll see this compound in solutions demanding both moderate polarity and a balance of water resistance.
It stands out as a pourable, oily liquid. You won’t find it in flakes, pearls, or crystals; the unique molecular weight and structure keep it fluid unless chilled far below freezing. No real dust hazard from powder or granules, which gives an edge for worker safety and process cleanliness. Pouring, pumping, and mixing are straightforward whether supplied in drums, IBCs, or small containers.
Anyone handling polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether must consider its impact on health and environment. This chemical rarely causes acute toxicity, ranking low on most hazardous rankings. Chronic exposure is still not a good idea; it may cause skin dryness or mild eye irritation with repeated or careless contact. I’ve found—like most people in manufacturing—that using gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation keeps risks at bay. In liquid form, spills can make floors slippery and need immediate cleanup to prevent injuries. Storage in closed containers, away from strong acids, bases, and oxidizers, keeps this product stable for long periods.
Engineers favor polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether for its solvency and ability to fine-tune viscosity in paints, coatings, and specialty lubricants. Printing ink producers select it to control drying rates while ensuring smooth application. In some coolant formulations, it adds thermal stability and a property profile that outperforms simpler glycols. Its safety profile and predictable behavior in solution let raw materials specialists work with confidence, knowing they can blend it up with water or oil-based components.
The raw material sources and manufacturing practices behind this polyether shape its impact well beyond the factory gate. Polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether degrades slowly in soil and aquatic environments, a factor regulators have started tracking more closely. Reducing environmental load means working with suppliers who invest in cleaner production and responsible waste controls. I’ve seen how investing in low-residue, high-purity grades pays off in both product quality and environmental performance. Manufacturers who promote transparency and responsible use set the standard for safety in the chemical supply chain.
Challenges with polypropylene glycol (22) butyl ether center on safe handling, storage, and life cycle waste. Cheaper, contaminated batches threaten both safety and downstream equipment. Quality control remains the best solution: strict supplier audits, analysis for heavy metals, and clear labeling all help prevent big headaches. For those worried about hazardous labeling, understanding that this chemical is classified as non-hazardous under most international shipping standards makes logistics easier, as long as materials meet the specifications above. Over time, membrane-based purification and greener synthesis could ease environmental burdens—an area where informed users keep pushing suppliers for better performance without trade-offs in quality or safety.
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