Butyl Alcohols
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Butanol is a four-carbon alcohol that can take on several isomeric forms, all with the formula C4H9OH. The specific connectivity of the carbon atoms, together with the position of the alcohol (-OH) group, determine the isomeric form and the name of the alcohol. All the isomers are clear, colorless liquids at room temperature, with boiling points ranging from 82°C to 117°C. They have a distinct, strong alcohol/solvent odor.



Butanol is used as a fuel (it’s the liquid fuel used in cigarette lighters and can be blended with gasoline for use in regular combustion engines), as an industrial solvent, and as a pre-cursor and reagent in the manufacture of many chemicals. As a solvent it is used extensively in the paint industry (as a thinner and in coatings where it is a slow evaporating carrier), in the ink industry, and in wax removers. It is used in the cosmetics and personal care industry as a general solvent and perfume base.