Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether, a chemical substance found across various industries, brings together unique properties shaped by its molecular structure. This mixture contains isomers based on the tri(propylene glycol) backbone, capped on one end by a butyl group. Its molecular formula stands as C13H28O4, with a relatively high molar mass sitting around 264.36 g/mol, embodying molecules that bridge the demands of solvency and compatibility in formulations. This substance typically appears as a clear liquid under standard environmental conditions. Its density measures close to 0.98 g/cm³ at 20°C, giving it enough heft for applications requiring both good spread and fair compatibility across fluids of different origins.
Among glycols and their ethers, this mixture stands out through a balance: the propylene glycol chain grants flexibility and a lower volatility, while the butyl tail enhances solvency and compatibility with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances. Unlike flakes, powders, or pearls found in some chemical supplies, tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether is best recognized as a viscous, transparent, nearly colorless liquid. It refuses to crystallize under typical storage, supporting stability for longer periods and in a range of environmental conditions. Viscosity and boiling point both run higher than more volatile, short-chain glycol ethers, with the boiling point reported around 290°C. Hydrophobicity exceeds that of simple glycols without sacrificing water miscibility completely, making this substance an effective bridge in blending scenarios.
On a specification sheet, you’ll see purity levels above 98%, water content below 0.2%, and minimal color as measured by a platinum-cobalt scale, reflecting the importance of keeping impurity levels low in downstream formulations. Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether comes in bulk as drums or intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), commonly measured in liters. Unlike raw material bases such as caustic soda or sodium carbonate, this glycol ether is a finished, precise compound, shipped and stored as a liquid exclusively. Stability and chemical resistance allow for safe storage under typical warehouse conditions, though it makes sense to avoid extreme temperatures and moisture ingress.
In international trade, every material needs to be handled accurately under the right HS Code. For tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether, the recognized Harmonized System Code sits under 290949, classifying it as an ether of glycols. Customs authorities and procurement departments use this code for tariff calculations and regulatory compliance. Proper identification supports traceability and aligns with responsible chemical trade, which matters more as global supply chains grow complex and regulations tighten.
As with many glycol ethers, safety means keeping exposure to a minimum. Direct contact with eyes or prolonged skin exposure can irritate, and inhalation of vapor at elevated concentrations may affect respiratory health. Factory floor experience teaches that gloves, eye protection, and adequate ventilation lower risks for operators. Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether does not count among acutely toxic substances, but chronic exposure or large accidental releases call for medical oversight. In fire situations, this material burns, producing carbon oxides, so foam or CO₂ extinguishers become necessary. Effective chemical management requires clear storage protocols and regular inspections for leaks or container integrity, minimizing the chance for accidental release.
In my years in specialty chemical distribution, glycol ethers played a quiet but powerful role in everything from paints to cleaners. Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether lives in the same territory—serving as a solvent in waterborne coatings, textile auxiliaries, and heavy-duty cleaning agents. Its solubilizing ability boosts pigment dispersion, breaks up greases without leaving residues, and helps formulate detergents that rinse away cleanly. Surfactant manufacturers lean toward this ether for blending, since it bridges hydrophobic actives and water bases. Underpinning these uses are the raw materials: propylene oxide forms the backbone by successive propoxylation, and n-butanol adds the stabilizing butyl group by etherification under controlled conditions. The purity of these raw inputs dictates the stability of the resulting isomer mixture, so a quality supply chain remains the backbone of consistent performance.
Today, responsible chemical management matters more than ever. I’ve seen demand grow for raw materials with safe, non-hazardous profiles and solid records on regulatory compliance. Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether, compared to lower-molecular-weight glycol ethers, offers reduced inhalation hazards and limited volatility. Concerns over harmful breakdown products—such as aldehydes or volatile organics—drive formulators to choose materials that balance performance and low health risk. Ongoing improvements in production methods can further cut potential residues, aligning this compound with green chemistry initiatives. Down the line, innovation could focus on making the ether from bio-based feedstocks, trimming both carbon footprint and reliance on fossil chemistry.
Tri(propylene glycol) butyl ether mixture of isomers carries weight as a workhorse in chemical formulation. It earns this place through reliable physical properties, manageable safety profile, established raw material supply, and clear trade classification under the HS Code system. For anyone sourcing or using raw chemicals, understanding its physical behavior, molecular formula, density, solubility, safe handling, and market channels lends confidence, supports compliance, and reduces unexpected risk. From my hands-on time in manufacturing support, success doesn’t happen from chemical properties alone—it comes when these basics line up cleanly and companies keep safety and sustainability front and center.
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