Tert Butyl Alcohol Chemicals

Product Description

the simplest tertiary alcohol, with a formula of (CH₃)₃COH (sometimes represented as t-BuOH). Its isomers are 1-butanol, isobutanol, and butan-2-ol. tert-Butyl alcohol is a colorless solid, which melts near room temperature and has a camphor-like odor.

tert-Butyl alcohol, also known as tert-butanol, is a colorless liquid or crystalline solid with a sharp alcohol or camphor-like odor. It has a molecular weight of 74.14 and a boiling point of 180F. It's very soluble in water and miscible with ethanol and diethyl ether. It melts near room temperature and has a freezing point of 78F.

Tertiary-butyl alcohol, commonly known as tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) or 2-methyl-2-propanol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula (CH3)3COH. Here's an overview of its properties and uses:

1. Physical Properties: Tert-butyl alcohol is a colorless, flammable liquid with a camphor-like odor. It has a molecular weight of about 74.12 g/mol and a boiling point of approximately 82C. It is soluble in water and miscible with most organic solvents.

2. Chemical Properties: Tert-butyl alcohol is an alcohol, characterized by its hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to a tertiary carbon atom. It is relatively stable under normal conditions but can undergo oxidation reactions to form ketones or aldehydes.

3. Synthesis: Tert-butyl alcohol can be produced by the hydration of isobutylene (2-methylpropene), a compound derived from the refining of petroleum. The reaction typically occurs in the presence of sulfuric acid catalysts.

4. Uses:

   • Solvent: Tert-butyl alcohol is used as a solvent in various industrial processes, including in the production of paints, coatings, and adhesives. It is valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds.
   • Chemical Intermediate: Tert-butyl alcohol serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other chemicals, including tert-butyl ethers, which are used as fuel additives and octane enhancers. It is also used in the production of tert-butyl hydroperoxide, a useful oxidizing agent.
   • Laboratory Reagent: Tert-butyl alcohol is employed as a solvent and reagent in laboratory settings for various chemical reactions and processes. It is particularly useful in organic synthesis and chromatography.
   • Fuel Additive: Tert-butyl alcohol and its derivatives are used as additives in gasoline and other fuels to improve combustion efficiency and reduce engine knock.

5. Safety Considerations: Tert-butyl alcohol is flammable and may form explosive mixtures with air. Inhalation of its vapors can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure may lead to central nervous system depression. It should be handled with proper ventilation and safety precautions.

Overall, tert-butyl alcohol is a versatile compound with various industrial and laboratory applications, ranging from solvent use to chemical synthesis and fuel enhancement.