Isobutanol

Isobutanol, also known as 2-methylpropan-1-ol or 2-methyl-1-propanol is an organic chemical compound, with many uses in industry and chemistry. It is an isomer of butanol and has the formula CH₃CH(CH₂)CH₂OH.

Properties

Chemical

Isobutanol will burn in open air, but due to its high flash point of 28 °C it will only ignite if heated prior.

Physical

Isobutanol is a colorless viscous liquid, with a strong characteristic odor. It is poorly soluble in water (8.7 mL/100 mL), but miscible with many organic solvents such as acetone or ethanol. It has a boiling point of 107.89 °C and a melting point of −108 °C.

Availability

Isobutanol is available at hardware stores as wood paint drying accelerator. Some products may also contain HCl, which require neutralization.

Preparation

Isobutanol is much cheaper to buy that synthesize.

Projects

• Make isobutyl acetate
• Make p-xylene

Handling

Safety

Isobutanol is the least toxic isomer of butanol. Its strong odor however may cause nausea or dizziness.

Storage

Should be stored in closed bottles away from any heat source.

Disposal

Isobutanol can be safely burned.