1,4-Butanediol – Key Raw Material in the Chemical Industry

1,4-Butanediol (BDO) is an organic chemical compound belonging to the diols group, which plays an important role in many industries. It is primarily known as a precursor for the production of plastics, solvents, elastomers and polymers. Its versatility makes it used in the automotive, electronics, pharmaceutical and textile sectors.

Product Technical Data

• Chemical name: 1,4-Butanediol
• CAS number: 110-63-4
• EC (EINECS) number: 203-786-5
• Sum formula: C₄H₁₀O₂.
• Molar mass: 90.12 g/mol
• Physical form: Colorless, viscous liquid
• Melting point: 20,1 °C
• Boiling point: 230 °C
• Density: 1.017 g/cm³ (25 °C)
• Solubility in water: Total
• Refractive index: 1.445 (20 °C)
• Flash point: 135 °C
• Auto-ignition temperature: 370 °C

Industrial Applications

1. production of plastics and synthetic fibers

BDO is a key raw material in the production of tetrahydrofuran (THF), which is used to make polytetrahydrofurans (PTMEG). PTMEGs are used in the production of polyurethane elastomers and spandex, which is used in sports and medical apparel.

2. solvents and cleaners

Thanks to its physicochemical properties, BDO is an effective solvent for paints, varnishes, printing inks and cleaning agents. Its good solubility in water and other solvents makes it widely used in the chemical industry.

3. pharmacy and biotechnology

Under controlled laboratory conditions, BDO can be used as a substrate in fermentation and enzymatic synthesis processes. It also finds use as an intermediate in the production of some pharmaceuticals and supplements.

4. polyurethane production

Due to its ability to react with isocyanates, 1,4-Butanediol is often used in the synthesis of flexible and rigid polyurethane foams. These products are widely used in construction, thermal insulation and interior furnishings.

Methods of producing 1,4-Butanediol

• Hydrogenation of aldehydes – mainly maleate and fumarate.
• The use of acetylene – the classic Reppe process, which involves the reaction of acetylene with formaldehyde.
• Biotechnology – modern fermentation with microorganisms (e.g., genetically modified E. coli ), offering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach.

Curiosities and Special Properties

• BDO is a four-carbon diol, which means it has two hydroxyl groups – one at each end of the molecule’s chain.
• It is a hygroscopic compound, meaning that it readily absorbs water from its surroundings.
• Due to its viscosity and binding properties, it is also used as a plasticizer and wetting agent in some manufacturing processes.
• At room temperature, it may be slightly sweet in odor, although it is not recommended to inhale or ingest it.
• In some countries, BDO is subject to legal restrictions due to its potential illegal use as a precursor to psychoactive substances – in Poland it is classified as a legal industrial compound, but due caution should be exercised when purchasing and storing it.

Safety and Storage

1,4-Butanediol is a relatively safe substance for industrial use, as long as standard health and safety rules are followed. Basic precautions include:

• Store in tightly closed containers, away from heat and light sources.
• Using protective gloves and safety glasses during handling.
• Ensure good ventilation of the room.
• Compliance with REACH and GHS regulations.

Summary

1,4-Butanediol is an inconspicuous liquid that is driving the industrial future. From textiles to electronics, from pharmaceuticals to ecology, BDO remains an indispensable link in the chain of many technologies. Its unique chemical properties, versatility of applications and strategic importance to the economy make it worth looking at not only from the point of view of a chemical engineer, but also from the perspective of business decision-makers looking for modern and scalable raw materials.