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1,4-Epoxybutane is a clear, colorless, highly volatile cyclic ether (C₄H₈O) that serves as a strong polar aprotic solvent, completely miscible with water and most organic solvents.
1,4-Epoxybutane's primary industrial use is as a reaction medium and chemical intermediate in the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) for spandex, thermoplastic polyurethanes, elastomers, and other polymeric materials, as well as in coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and organometallic syntheses.
While highly versatile, 1,4-Epoxybutane is flammable and can form explosive peroxides upon prolonged exposure to air and light, requiring storage with stabilizers such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and careful handling under well-ventilated, controlled conditions.
CAS Number: 109-99-9
EC Number: 203-726-8
Chemical Formula: C4H8O
Molar Mass: 72.11 g/mol
Synonyms: TETRAHYDROFURAN, 109-99-9, Oxolane, Furan, tetrahydro-, Furanidine, Hydrofuran, Tetramethylene oxide, Oxacyclopentane, 1,4-Epoxybutane, Tetrahydrofuranne, Tetraidrofurano, Tetrahydrofuraan, Tetrahydrofurane, Cyclotetramethylene oxide, THF, tetrahydro-furan, Butane, 1,4-epoxy-, Cyclotetramethylene, RCRA waste number U213, 24979-97-3, NCI-C60560, NSC 57858, Butane .alpha.,.delta.-oxide, Butane alpha,delta-oxide, MFCD00005356, 3N8FZZ6PY4, DTXSID1021328, CHEBI:26911, NSC-57858, Tetrahydrofuran, anhydrous, Agrisynth THF, tetrahydofurane, Tetrahydrofuraan [Dutch], Tetraidrofurano [Italian], Butane, alpha,delta-oxide, Tetrahydrofuranne [French], Tetrahydrofuran, Spectrophotometric Grade, CCRIS 6276, HSDB 125, EINECS 203-726-8, UN2056, RCRA waste no. U213, Tetrahydrofuran(Stabilized), UNII-3N8FZZ6PY4, terahydrofuran, terahydrofurane, terahyrofuran, tetrahydofuran, tetrahydorfuran, tetrahyrdofuran, tetrahyrofuran, tetraliydrofuran, tetra hydrofuran, tetra-hydrofuran, tetrahy-drofuran, tetrahydro furan, tetrahydrof uran, tetrahydrofu ran, tetrahydrofura n, tetrahydrofuran-, AI3-07570, tet-rahydrofurane, tetra-hydrofurane, tetrahydro furane, tetrahydro-furane, tetrahydrofurane-, Tetrahydrofuran, contains 250 ppm BHT as inhibitor, ACS reagent, >=99.0%, tetra hydro-furan, tetra- hydrofuran, tetrahydro- furan, Butane a,d-oxide, Butane,4-epoxy-, Dynasolve 150, Tetrahydrofuran ACS, 1,4-epoxy-Butane, c0019, tetrahydrofuran solvent, THF (tetrahydrofuran), Tetrahydrofuran, 99%, Tetrahydrofuran, Biograde, WLN: T5OTJ, EC 203-726-8, TETRAHYDROFURAN [MI], Tetrahydrofuran Ultra LC-MS, Tetrahydrofuran, ACS reagent, Tetrahydrofuran, >=99.5%, TETRAHYDROFURAN [HSDB], TETRAHYDROFURAN [IARC], Tetrahydrofuran, p.a., 99%, CHEMBL276521, DTXCID501328, TETRAHYDROFURAN [USP-RS], Diethylene oxide 1,4-Epoxybutane, Tetrahydrofuran, UV, HPLC Grade, NSC57858, Tetrahydrofuran, analytical standard, Tox21_201026, STL264218, AKOS000119982, UN 2056, Tetrahydrofuran, for HPLC, >=99.9%, NCGC00090740-01, NCGC00090740-02, NCGC00258579-01, BP-30232, CAS-109-99-9, Tetrahydrofuran, anhydrous, inhibitor free, Tetrahydrofuran, purum, >=99.0% (GC), 1ST001504, DB-038044, NS00009145, T0104, T0856, T2394, EN300-21322, Tetrahydrofuran, SAJ first grade, >=99.0%, Tetrahydrofuran, Selectophore(TM), >=99.5%, Tetrahydrofuran [UN2056] [Flammable liquid], Tetrahydrofuran HPLC grade stabilized with BHT, Tetrahydrofuran, JIS special grade, >=99.5%, Tetrahydrofuran, HPLC grade stabilized with BHT, A802124, InChI=1/C4H8O/c1-2-4-5-3-1/h1-4H, Q278332
1,4-Epoxybutane is a clear, colorless, highly volatile liquid with an ether-like odor, belonging to the class of cyclic ethers.
With the molecular formula C4H8O, 1,4-Epoxybutane is a five-membered saturated heterocyclic compound widely used as an aprotic, polar solvent due to its ability to dissolve a broad range of polar and nonpolar substances.
1,4-Epoxybutane is completely miscible with water and most organic solvents, making it valuable in polymer chemistry, particularly as a medium for polymerization reactions such as producing polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) for spandex fibers and elastomers.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also used in coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and as a reaction medium in organometallic and Grignard syntheses.
Although relatively stable under normal storage, 1,4-Epoxybutane can form explosive peroxides upon prolonged exposure to air and light, requiring storage with stabilizers such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).
Due to 1,4-Epoxybutane's high flammability, volatility, and potential central nervous system effects upon inhalation, 1,4-Epoxybutane must be handled in well-ventilated areas with strict adherence to safety protocols.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a highly versatile, polar, aprotic solvent widely used in polymer production, coatings, adhesives, and as a reaction medium in chemical synthesis.
1,4-Epoxybutane is valued for its strong solvency, low viscosity, and ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, resins, and polymers, particularly polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethanes.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also used in pharmaceutical formulations, electronics, and as a starting material in the manufacture of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG).
1,4-Epoxybutane is a clear, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a five-membered cyclic ether (a heterocycle) that serves as a strong polar aprotic solvent.
1,4-Epoxybutane is miscible with water and most organic solvents, making it suitable for a wide range of chemical environments.
1,4-Epoxybutane has excellent low-temperature performance and is known for its ability to solubilize high-molecular-weight polymers.
1,4-Epoxybutane forms azeotropes with water and must be stabilized (typically with BHT) to prevent peroxide formation during storage.
1,4-Epoxybutane is flammable and requires careful handling under controlled ventilation and explosion-proof equipment.
1,4-Epoxybutane meets the specifications of ACS, USP, and industrial grades for various applications.
Due to its reactivity, 1,4-Epoxybutane is often distilled or purified before use in high-precision synthesis.
1,4-Epoxybutane is subject to strict regulation due to its potential health and environmental hazards.
1,4-Epoxybutane is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents, which makes it an effective medium for chemical reactions and as a solvent for pharmaceutical formulations.
1,4-Epoxybutane is commonly used in the synthesis of polymers such as polyurethanes and polystyrene, where it aids in the dissolution of monomers and enhances polymerization.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a highly reactive solvent that is stable under typical reaction conditions, making it a preferred choice in industrial and laboratory applications involving reactive chemicals.
1,4-Epoxybutane has a low boiling point and high evaporation rate, making it ideal for applications requiring quick drying, such as coatings and adhesives.
1,4-Epoxybutane is often used in the preparation of liquid polymer solutions for the production of fibers and films, where it helps dissolve polymers and improve their processability.
1,4-Epoxybutane is known for its ability to stabilize lithium-based reagents in chemical reactions, making it an essential solvent in the preparation of organometallic compounds.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a flammable solvent that should be handled with caution, but it is an invaluable solvent in many industrial applications, offering effective dissolution properties for a broad range of organic materials.
1,4-Epoxybutane is an organic compound with the formula (CH2)4O.
1,4-Epoxybutane is classified as heterocyclic compound, specifically a cyclic ether.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a colorless, water-miscible organic liquid with low viscosity.
1,4-Epoxybutane is mainly used as a precursor to polymers.
Being polar and having a wide liquid range, 1,4-Epoxybutane is a versatile solvent.
1,4-Epoxybutane is registered under the REACH Regulation and is manufactured in and / or imported to the European Economic Area, at ≥ 100 000 tonnes per annum.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used by consumers, in articles, by professional workers (widespread uses), in formulation or re-packing, at industrial sites and in manufacturing.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a saturated cyclic ether with a potential use as a biofuel.
1,4-Epoxybutane's combustion studies have been investigated.
Reports suggest that 1,4-Epoxybutane is a better promoter than 1,3 dioxolane for CO2-hydrate formation.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used as a component in mobile phases for reversed-phase liquid chromatography.
1,4-Epoxybutane has a greater elution strength than methanol or acetonitrile, but is less commonly used than these solvents.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used as a solvent in 3D printing when using PLA plastics.
1,4-Epoxybutane can be used to clean clogged 3D printer parts, as well as when finishing prints to remove extruder lines and add a shine to the finished product.
Recently 1,4-Epoxybutane is used as co-solvent for lithium metal batteries, helping to stabilize the metal anode.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a clear, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor, classified chemically as a saturated cyclic ether or heterocyclic compound, with the molecular formula C₄H₈O and a five-membered ring structure containing one oxygen atom.
1,4-Epoxybutane is an important industrial solvent, notable for its exceptional ability to dissolve a wide range of polar and nonpolar substances, and is completely miscible with water and most organic solvents.
1,4-Epoxybutane’s low viscosity, high volatility, and aprotic nature make it particularly valuable in polymer chemistry, where it serves as the primary reaction medium for producing polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), a key intermediate in manufacturing spandex fibers, thermoplastic elastomers, and various polyurethane products.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also extensively used as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, varnishes, inks, and in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes where high-purity solvents are required.
In synthetic organic chemistry, 1,4-Epoxybutane is a preferred medium for reactions involving strong nucleophiles, organolithium reagents, and Grignard reagents due to its ability to stabilize reactive intermediates without participating in side reactions.
While generally stable under recommended storage conditions, 1,4-Epoxybutane has a known tendency to form explosive peroxides upon prolonged exposure to oxygen and light, especially when solvent levels become low, making regular peroxide testing and the use of stabilizers such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) essential for safe storage.
1,4-Epoxybutane is highly flammable, with a low flash point, and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air; therefore, 1,4-Epoxybutane must be handled in well-ventilated areas, away from ignition sources, and with appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion.
Market Overview of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
The global 1,4-Epoxybutane market, valued at approximately USD 4.5–4.8 billion in 2023–2024, is projected to reach between USD 7.1 billion by 2030 and USD 13.3 billion by 2037, reflecting an average compound annual growth rate of around 7%.
Market expansion is driven primarily by the rising demand for polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) in spandex and polyurethane production, as well as 1,4-Epoxybutane’s extensive use as a high-performance solvent in adhesives, coatings, PVC cements, and pharmaceuticals.
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the market with over 60% share, supported by strong textile, chemical, and construction industries, while North America and Europe remain significant consumers through automotive, pharmaceutical, and coatings applications.
Growing interest in sustainable chemistry is fostering the development of bio-based 1,4-Epoxybutane derived from renewable feedstocks such as biomass-based furfural, aligning with environmental and regulatory trends.
Applications of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
1,4-Epoxybutane is used extensively as a solvent in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) adhesives and coatings.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed as a reaction medium in Grignard and other organometallic reactions due to its strong solvating power.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in pharmaceutical synthesis for active ingredients and intermediates.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a precursor in the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), which is used in spandex and elastomer manufacturing.
1,4-Epoxybutane is found in ink formulations, printing solutions, and cleaning agents for electronics.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in laboratory settings for polymerization, purification, and extraction.
1,4-Epoxybutane is suitable for dissolving natural and synthetic resins, including rubber and epoxy formulations.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in fuel cell membrane manufacturing and as a stabilizer in complex chemical reactions.
1,4-Epoxybutane is compatible with a variety of organic compounds and is used in chromatography applications.
1,4-Epoxybutane is widely used as a solvent in the production of plastics, including PVC, where it helps dissolve and polymerize monomers to create various polymer products.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and for dissolving compounds that are otherwise insoluble in water.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of adhesives and sealants, where it acts as a solvent to help dissolve polymers and improve bonding strength.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the production of synthetic rubbers and elastomers, where it is used to dissolve monomers and improve the processing of polymer materials.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the formulation of paints and coatings, where it helps dissolve resins and improve the flow properties, ensuring an even application.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used as a solvent in the production of polyurethane foams, where it helps dissolve polymer components and improve the foam’s texture and consistency.
1,4-Epoxybutane is applied in the preparation of lithium battery electrolytes, where it acts as a solvent for lithium salts, enhancing the conductivity and performance of the battery.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the synthesis of 1,4-Epoxybutane-based copolymers, which are used in the manufacture of materials like adhesives and coatings.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the formulation of inks and printing pastes, where it helps dissolve pigments and resins, improving the quality of the printing process.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in laboratory applications as a solvent for a wide range of organic compounds, particularly in reactions involving polymers, catalysis, and chemical synthesis.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the production of solvent-based cleaning products, where it helps dissolve and remove oils, greases, and contaminants from surfaces.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the formulation of nail polish removers, where it helps to dissolve and remove the polymer-based substances in nail polishes.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of cosmetics and personal care products, where it serves as a solvent for various active ingredients, improving the texture and efficacy of formulations.
1,4-Epoxybutane is applied in the pharmaceutical industry to prepare solutions and suspensions for drug formulations, where it improves the solubility of poorly water-soluble compounds.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the polymerization of butadiene to create rubber-like materials used in tires and other industrial applications.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of chemical intermediates, including tetrahydropyran, which is a key building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed as a solvent in the preparation of polymer solutions for the production of fibers and textiles, where it helps dissolve polymer components and improves processability.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of coatings for electronics and printed circuit boards, where it helps improve the adhesion and consistency of the coating materials.
1,4-Epoxybutane is applied in the manufacture of specialty chemicals, where it serves as a solvent for chemical reactions that require a stable and non-reactive medium.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used as a solvent in the production of cleaning agents for industrial and commercial use, where it helps to dissolve and remove oils and greases from machinery and equipment.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the formulation of solvent-based adhesives for packaging materials, improving adhesion and flow properties.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of synthetic fibers, such as polyurethanes, where it serves as a solvent for the polymers in the production process.
1,4-Epoxybutane is applied in the polymerization of cyclic ethers, used in the creation of advanced materials in coatings, films, and composites.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in laboratory-scale chemical reactions, where its excellent solvent properties are ideal for a wide range of organic reactions, particularly those involving lithium reagents and organometallic compounds.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of polyurethane elastomers, which are utilized in a variety of applications, including footwear, automotive parts, and industrial coatings.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the synthesis of a wide range of organic chemicals, where it provides an effective medium for catalysis, polymerization, and other chemical transformations.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the production of optical coatings, where it helps in the formulation of smooth and uniform layers that improve light transmission and durability.
1,4-Epoxybutane is applied in the preparation of epoxy resin formulations, where it acts as a solvent that ensures better mixing and application of resin products.
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the preparation of high-performance lubricants, where it serves as a solvent that enhances the solubility and stability of additives.
1,4-Epoxybutane is employed in the production of pharmaceuticals, where it helps dissolve and stabilize various active ingredients for use in injectable or oral formulations.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor, widely used as a solvent in various industrial and laboratory applications.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a highly polar solvent known for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, making it essential in chemical synthesis and polymer processing.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a versatile solvent that can dissolve both hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances, allowing it to be used in diverse applications, including polymerization and chemical reactions.
Uses of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
1,4-Epoxybutane is widely used as a high-performance solvent and chemical intermediate across multiple industries.
1,4-Epoxybutane's primary application is in the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), a key component in spandex fibers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, and elastomers.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also an important industrial solvent for coatings, adhesives, PVC cements, printing inks, and resin formulations, and serves as a versatile reaction medium for Grignard reactions, organolithium syntheses, and other moisture-sensitive processes in chemical manufacturing.
In the pharmaceutical sector, 1,4-Epoxybutane is employed both as a solvent and in the synthesis of active ingredients and intermediates.
Additionally, 1,4-Epoxybutane finds use in laboratory analysis, specialty chemical production, and the flavor and fragrance industry, valued for its strong solvency, complete miscibility with water, and compatibility with a broad range of organic compounds.
1,4-Epoxybutane has a wide range of uses across multiple industries due to its strong solvency, miscibility with water, and compatibility with many organic compounds.
Polymer and Fiber Production:
PTMEG (Polytetramethylene Ether Glycol) Synthesis:
The largest use of 1,4-Epoxybutane, serving as the main raw material for producing PTMEG, which is then used to make spandex fibers, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), and elastomers.
Engineering Plastics:
Involved in producing specialty polymers with high flexibility and durability.
Industrial Solvent:
Coatings & Adhesives:
1,4-Epoxybutane solvent for vinyl chloride, PVC cements, epoxy resins, and polyurethane coatings.
Printing Inks:
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in specialty inks for plastics and flexible packaging.
Chemical Reactions:
Medium for Grignard reactions, organolithium syntheses, and other moisture-sensitive processes due to its aprotic nature.
Pharmaceuticals:
Drug Manufacturing:
1,4-Epoxybutane solvent and reaction medium in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis.
Intermediate Preparation:
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in producing pharmaceutical intermediates like butyrolactone and other heterocycles.
Laboratory Applications:
Chromatography:
1,4-Epoxybutane solvent in HPLC and other analytical techniques.
Sample Preparation:
Dissolving polar and nonpolar analytes for chemical analysis.
Specialty Chemicals & Fine Chemicals:
Flavor & Fragrance Industry:
Solvent and reaction medium in aroma chemical synthesis.
Resin and Coating Modifiers:
1,4-Epoxybutane improves adhesion and flexibility in high-performance coatings.
Consumer Uses:
1,4-Epoxybutane is used in the following products: adhesives and sealants, coating products, washing & cleaning products, anti-freeze products, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay, finger paints and lubricants and greases.
Other release to the environment of 1,4-Epoxybutane is likely to occur from: indoor use (e.g. machine wash liquids/detergents, automotive care products, paints and coating or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners) and outdoor use.
Industry Uses:
1,4-Epoxybutane has many industry uses as a solvent including in natural and synthetic resins, high polymers, fat oils, rubber, polymer and protective coating, adhesives, inks, tetramethyl lead, PVC and in the production of nylon and adipic acid.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also used as a reaction medium, primarily in the pharmaceutical industry, in processes such as Grignard syntheses or lithium aluminium hydride reductions.
Grignard synthesis examples include butyrolactone and succinic acid.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also used as a Grignard reagent in the synthesis of synthetic perfumes, pharmaceuticals, motor fuels and insecticides.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a valuable chemical intermediate as 1,4-Epoxybutane is a precursor to polymers, such as poly (tetramethylene ether) glycol.
The primary use of this polymer is the production of elastomeric polyurethane fibres like Spandex.
1,4-Epoxybutane is also an intermediate in the natural gas industry where 1,4-Epoxybutane is a natural gas odorant.
Other industry uses include in intermediates, processing aids and plasticisers.
Laboratory Use:
In the laboratory, 1,4-Epoxybutane is a popular solvent when its water miscibility is not an issue.
1,4-Epoxybutane is more basic than diethyl ether and forms stronger complexes with Li+, Mg2+, and boranes.
1,4-Epoxybutane is a popular solvent for hydroboration reactions and for organometallic compounds such as organolithium and Grignard reagents.
Production of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
1,4-Epoxybutane is produced primarily through the acid-catalyzed dehydration of 1,4-butanediol (BDO), which is the dominant commercial route due to its efficiency and high product purity.
In this process, BDO is reacted in the presence of a strong acid catalyst—commonly sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, or acidic ion-exchange resins—at elevated temperatures (around 150–250 °C), causing an intramolecular cyclization that yields 1,4-Epoxybutane and water.
Another important method is catalytic hydrogenation of furan, which is typically derived from biomass-based furfural, making it an attractive renewable route; this reaction uses catalysts such as nickel, palladium, or ruthenium under high hydrogen pressure to saturate the furan ring.
A less common route involves co-production during maleic anhydride hydrogenation, where 1,4-Epoxybutane is obtained alongside 1,4-butanediol and gamma-butyrolactone.
Industrially, crude 1,4-Epoxybutane is purified through fractional distillation, often with stabilizers like butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) added to prevent peroxide formation during storage.
Increasingly, bio-based production technologies are gaining attention, with manufacturers developing 1,4-Epoxybutane from renewable feedstocks to meet sustainability goals and reduce reliance on petrochemical sources.
History of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
1,4-Epoxybutane was first identified in the late 19th century during studies on cyclic ethers, when chemists discovered it as a stable, saturated derivative of furan formed through hydrogenation.
1,4-Epoxybutane's early laboratory synthesis involved the catalytic hydrogenation of furan, itself obtained from biomass-derived furfural, making 1,4-Epoxybutane one of the first industrial solvents to have both petrochemical and renewable origins.
In the early 20th century, 1,4-Epoxybutane found limited use due to the availability of cheaper linear ethers, but by the 1930s–1940s, advances in catalytic chemistry and the commercial production of furan derivatives enabled more efficient manufacturing routes.
A major breakthrough came in the mid-20th century with the acid-catalyzed cyclodehydration of 1,4-butanediol (BDO), a process that could be integrated into large-scale petrochemical operations and significantly lowered costs.
This innovation coincided with the rise of synthetic fibers, especially spandex, for which 1,4-Epoxybutane-derived polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) became a critical precursor.
From the 1960s onward, 1,4-Epoxybutane production expanded rapidly, supported by its growing role in polymer chemistry, specialty coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceutical synthesis.
In recent decades, attention has returned to its renewable roots, with research into bio-based 1,4-Epoxybutane from furfural gaining momentum as industries aim to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the solvent’s unmatched versatility.
Handling and Storage of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Handling
Use only in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods.
Avoid inhalation of vapors and contact with skin or eyes.
Ground and bond containers during transfer to prevent static discharge.
Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces.
Do not smoke while handling.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
Keep away from direct sunlight, ignition sources, and incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, acids, alkalis).
Store under an inert atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) if possible to minimize peroxide formation.
Add stabilizers (e.g., BHT) to inhibit peroxide formation and test periodically for peroxides.
Stability and Reactivity of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Chemical Stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions but forms explosive peroxides on prolonged exposure to air and light.
Reactivity:
Highly flammable liquid and vapor; reacts vigorously with strong oxidizers.
Conditions to Avoid:
Heat, sparks, flames, prolonged storage without inhibitor.
Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, alkalis, metal hydrides.
Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and potentially toxic fumes of peroxides.
First Aid Measures of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.
Seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Remove contaminated clothing.
Wash affected skin with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
Get medical advice if irritation occurs.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Continue rinsing and seek medical attention.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek immediate medical help.
Firefighting Measures of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Dry chemical, alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray/fog.
Specific Hazards:
Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to ignition sources; explosive peroxide formation possible.
Protective Equipment for Firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.
Special Instructions:
Cool containers with water spray to prevent rupture due to heat.
Accidental Release Measures of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Personal Precautions:
Evacuate area; eliminate all ignition sources; ventilate area.
Use personal protective equipment.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, sewers, or waterways.
Cleanup Methods:
Absorb with inert material (e.g., vermiculite, sand).
Place in a suitable container for disposal according to regulations.
Wash spill site after cleanup.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Engineering Controls:
Use local exhaust ventilation; explosion-proof equipment in flammable areas.
Eye Protection:
Chemical splash goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
Skin Protection:
Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile, neoprene) and protective clothing.
Respiratory Protection:
If ventilation is inadequate, use an approved organic vapor respirator.
Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling; remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
Identifiers of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Chemical Name: 1,4-Epoxybutane
IUPAC Name: Oxolane
Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O
Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
CAS Number: 109-99-9
EC (EINECS) Number: 203-726-8
PubChem CID: 8028
UN Number (Transport): UN2056 (Flammable liquid)
RTECS Number: LU5950000
FDA UNII: 4W7F61T6VW
Beilstein Registry Number: 103113
InChI: InChI=1S/C4H8O/c1-2-4-5-3-1/h1-4H2
InChI Key: WYURNTSHIVDZCO-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Canonical SMILES: C1CCOC1
Isomeric SMILES: C1CCOC1
Properties of 1,4-Epoxybutane:
Molar mass: 72.107g
Appearance: Colorless liquid
Odor: Ether-like
Density: 0.8876 g/cm3 at 20 °C, liquid
Melting point: −108.4 °C (−163.1 °F; 164.8 K)
Boiling point: 66 °C (151 °F; 339 K)
Solubility in water: Miscible
Vapor pressure: 132 mmHg (20 °C)
Refractive index (nD): 1.4073 (20 °C)
Viscosity: 0.48 cP at 25 °C
XLogP3: 0.5
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count:0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 1
Exact Mass: 72.057514874
Monoisotopic Mass: 72.057514874
Topological Polar Surface Area: 9.2 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 5
Complexity: 22.8
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O
Molar Mass: 72.11 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless, volatile liquid
Odor: Ether-like
Taste: Slightly sweet (not for consumption; toxic)
Melting Point: −108.4 °C
Boiling Point: 66.0 °C at 760 mmHg
Flash Point: −14 °C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: 321 °C
Density: 0.889–0.890 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Refractive Index (n₂₀/D): 1.407–1.408
Vapor Pressure: 162 mmHg at 20 °C
Vapor Density: 2.5 (air = 1)
Solubility in Water: Completely miscible
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Miscible with most polar and nonpolar organic solvents
Partition Coefficient (log P): 0.46
Viscosity: 0.456 mPa·s at 25 °C
Surface Tension: ~26.4 mN/m at 20 °C
pKa: ~8.75 (conjugate acid)
Heat of Vaporization: 351 kJ/kg
Heat of Combustion: −2,165 kJ/mol
Odor Threshold: ~2.0 ppm
Explosive Limits in Air: 2.0–11.8% (v/v)
Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O
Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
Common Name: 1,4-Epoxybutane
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Ether-like
Solubility: Miscible with water and organic solvents
Boiling Point: 65–67°C
Melting Point: -108.5°C
Density: Approx. 0.889 g/cm³
Vapor Pressure: 162 mmHg at 20°C
Flash Point: -21°C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: Approx. 321°C
Stability: Requires stabilizers (e.g., BHT) to prevent peroxide formation
Storage Temperature: Store below 25°C, away from heat/sparks
Shelf Life: 12–18 months when stabilized and properly stored
