N-Butyl Acetate (n-Butyl Acetate) – High-Purity Solvent for Coatings, Inks, and Flavors
Basic Information
CAS Number: 123-86-4
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂
Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol
EINECS Number: 204-658-1
Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid with a characteristic fruity odor (pear-like)
Purity: ≥ 99%
Physical Properties
Boiling Point: 126 °C
Flash Point: 22 °C (closed cup) – flammable liquid
Density: 0.882 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Vapor Pressure: 15 mmHg at 25 °C
Evaporation Rate: (Butyl Acetate = 1) – moderately fast
Solubility in Water: 0.7% at 20 °C; miscible with most organic solvents (alcohols, ethers, ketones, aromatic hydrocarbons).
Performance Characteristics
Excellent Solvency: Dissolves a wide range of polymers including nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate butyrate, ethyl cellulose, chlorinated rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene, acrylic and methacrylic resins, rosin esters, and many natural gums (e.g., damar, copal, mastic).
Versatile Application: Serves as an active solvent in lacquers, paint thinners, automotive refinish coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and nail polish removers.
Extraction Agent: Used in pharmaceutical and food industries to extract active ingredients or as a carrier for flavors and fragrances due to its pleasant odor and low toxicity.
Flavoring Ingredient: Approved as a synthetic flavoring substance (FEMA No. 2174) for beverages, baked goods, and confectionery, imparting fruity notes.
Applications
Paints & Coatings: Primarily used in nitrocellulose-based lacquers, automotive OEM and refinish paints, and wood coatings.
Printing Inks: Solvent for flexographic and gravure inks.
Adhesives: Component in contact adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Chemical Synthesis: Intermediate for the production of other esters, cellulose derivatives, and plasticizers.
Household Products: Ingredient in nail polish removers, paint strippers, and cleaning formulations.
Recommended Usage
Typically incorporated at 10–60% of the formulation depending on desired viscosity and drying rate.
Safety & Handling
Classified as a flammable liquid (UN 1123). Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and oxidizers.
May cause mild skin and eye irritation; use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles).
Avoid prolonged inhalation of vapors; ensure adequate ventilation.
Biodegradable and not persistent in the environment.
Packaging
Available in 1 L, 5 L, 20 L, 200 L drums, and bulk IBCs. Custom packaging on request. Shelf life: 24 months when stored properly.
Quality Assurance
Our N-Butyl Acetate meets ≥99% purity with low water content (<0.05%) and acid value <0.01 mg KOH/g, ensuring consistent performance in critical applications.