2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, also known as butyl cellosolve, is a solvent commonly used in household cleaners, paints, and personal care products. Its relevance to everyday life lies in its effectiveness in dissolving dirt, grease, and grime, making it a key ingredient in various cleaning products found in homes and businesses. Additionally, it is utilized in industries such as manufacturing and automotive for its ability to breakdown tough stains and residues. Despite its utility, it is important to handle this chemical with care and adhere to safety guidelines due to its potential health risks.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
One of the primary commercial and industrial applications of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, also known as butyl cellosolve, is as a solvent in various industries including paint, coating, and chemical manufacturing. It is used for its ability to dissolve both water-soluble and oil-soluble substances, making it an effective ingredient in many formulations. Additionally, it is commonly used as a cleaning agent and degreaser due to its strong solvency power.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is sometimes used as an excipient in drug formulations due to its solubilizing properties. It can help improve the stability and solubility of drugs, allowing for better absorption in the body. However, its use in drug and medication applications is limited compared to its widespread use in commercial and industrial settings.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is a colorless liquid with a mild, slightly sweet odor. Its appearance is similar to that of water, making it difficult to distinguish by sight alone.
The molar mass of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is approximately 178.27 g/mol, and its density is about 0.95 g/cm3. In comparison, common food items such as sugar and salt have much lower molar masses and higher densities.
The melting point of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is around -70°C, and its boiling point is approximately 252°C. These values are significantly higher than those of most common food items, which typically have lower melting and boiling points.
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is highly soluble in water and has a relatively high viscosity. This differs from common food items, which may vary in their solubility in water and typically have lower viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, also known as butyl carbitol, is typically produced through the reaction of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether with ethylene oxide in the presence of a catalyst. This process results in the formation of the desired product, which is then purified through distillation to achieve the final high-purity 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol.
The procurement of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol can be accomplished through various chemical suppliers and manufacturers who specialize in the production of glycol ethers. These suppliers typically offer the compound in various quantities, ranging from small laboratory-scale quantities to bulk orders for industrial applications. Once procured, the compound can be transported using standard chemical handling and transportation procedures to ensure safe delivery to the desired location.
In terms of transportation, 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is typically shipped in sealed containers, such as drums or intermediate bulk containers, to prevent any potential leaks or spills during transit. Additionally, proper labeling and documentation are required when transporting the compound to comply with regulatory guidelines and ensure the safe handling of the chemical. It is important to follow established protocols for the storage and transportation of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol to prevent any accidents or environmental contamination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol involve its potential hazards and risks associated with handling and usage. Due to its classification as a hazardous chemical, it is crucial to follow proper safety protocols when working with this substance. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, to minimize exposure to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Additionally, it is essential to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of vapors and to avoid contact with incompatible materials that may lead to dangerous chemical reactions.
Hazard statements for 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol include its potential risks to human health and the environment. This substance may cause skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory irritation if inhaled. Prolonged or repeated exposure to 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol may result in more serious health effects, such as damage to organs or the central nervous system. It is also considered harmful to aquatic life and may have long-lasting effects on the environment if not properly managed and disposed of.
Precautionary statements for 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol emphasize the importance of following safety measures to minimize risks during handling and use. It is recommended to wear protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when working with this substance to prevent skin and eye contact. In case of accidental exposure, it is important to seek medical advice immediately and provide relevant information about the specific product. Proper storage and disposal of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is crucial to prevent environmental contamination and reduce potential hazards to human health and the ecosystem.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol is its toxicological effects on various organisms and potential environmental impact. Studies could investigate its potential harm to aquatic organisms, terrestrial wildlife, and humans through exposure pathways such as inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact.
Another area of research could focus on the potential uses of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol in industrial applications, such as its effectiveness as a solvent, dispersant, or surfactant. Research could explore its compatibility with different materials, its stability under varying conditions, and its potential for replacing more hazardous chemicals in various processes.
Further research could delve into the degradation pathways of 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol in different environmental compartments, such as air, water, and soil. Studies could investigate the factors influencing its persistence, the formation of degradation byproducts, and the potential for bioaccumulation in living organisms along the food chain.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol based upon molecular structure is 2-(2-Propoxyethoxy)Ethanol. This compound has the same basic structure as 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, with a central ethylene glycol backbone and two additional ether chains. The difference lies in the length and branching of the side chains, with propoxy groups replacing the butoxy groups in this compound.
Another similar compound is 2-(2-Ethoxyethoxy)Ethanol. Like 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, this compound features a central ethylene glycol backbone and two ether chains attached to the same carbon atom. However, in this case, the side chains are ethoxy groups rather than butoxy groups. This change in structure can result in differences in solubility, reactivity, and other chemical properties compared to 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol.
A third similar compound is 2-(2-Methoxyethoxy)Ethanol. This compound shares the same general structure as 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)Ethanol, with a central ethylene glycol backbone and two ether chains. However, in this case, the side chains are methoxy groups rather than butoxy groups. This substitution can have significant effects on the compound’s physical and chemical properties, making it behave differently in various applications.
