Product Overview
N-Butyl Acetate is a versatile ester solvent widely utilized across industrial manufacturing sectors. It is characterized by its high purity, medium volatility, and a distinct sweet, fruity odor that makes it a preferred choice over harsher ketone solvents. At Alliance Chemical, we supply this high-performance organic compound to support critical production lines — including automotive coatings, wood finishes, and adhesive formulations. We invite you to explore our comprehensive range of esters to find the ideal solvent for your formulation needs. Our N-Butyl Acetate exhibits excellent solvency power for a broad range of natural and synthetic resins, including nitrocellulose, polymers, and various oils.
As a critical solvent in industrial applications, this compound plays a pivotal role in regulating dry times and maintaining film flow properties. It facilitates the creation of smooth, uniform coatings without introducing surface defects like blushing or orange peeling. Manufacturers rely on this clear, colorless liquid to achieve precise viscosity profiles in their formulations. Alliance Chemical ensures consistent quality, providing a reliable supply chain for large-scale operations requiring dependable chemical performance across domestic and international manufacturing facilities.
Why This Grade
While N-Butyl Acetate is supplied in standard industrial purity, the control of moisture and low-boiling alcohol impurities is critical for specific chemical processes. High purity prevents unintended side reactions when the solvent is used in polymerization or high-end coating formulations. Moisture levels must remain extremely low because excess water can cause phase separation, hydrolyze the ester into acetic acid and butanol, and degrade the performance of polyurethane coatings. Buyers require a consistent concentration to maintain exact dry times and evaporation rates in volatile organic compound calculations.
Choosing an incorrect or sub-standard grade of N-Butyl Acetate introduces significant failure modes into industrial production. High water content or residual alcohols can deactivate isocyanate crosslinkers in two-part polyurethane systems, leading to incomplete curing, reduced chemical resistance, and loss of adhesion. In precision printing inks, impurities can cause pigments to flocculate or alter viscosity, resulting in poor print quality and equipment downtime. By utilizing our high-purity solvent, industrial manufacturers avoid these costly production defects and ensure consistent batch-to-batch reproducibility.
Chemical Profile
- CAS Number
- 123-86-4
- Chemical Formula
- C6H12O2
- Molecular Weight
- 116.16 g/mol
- Boiling Point
- 259.7 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
- Melting Point
- -108.2 °F (NTP, 1992)
- Flash Point
- 72 °F (NTP, 1992)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.875 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float
- Appearance
- Butyl acetate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a fruity odor. Flash point 72 - 88 °F. Density 7.4 lb / gal (less than water). Hence floats on water. Vapors heavier than air.
- Solubility
- 1 to 5 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
- UN Number
- UN1123
- Hazard Class
- Class 3
- Packing Group
- III
- Proper Shipping Name
- Butyl acetates
- GHS Signal Word
- Danger
Values sourced from Alliance Chemical's canonical chemistry registry. Certificate of Analysis (COA) per lot.
Industrial Applications
- Coating and Paint Formulations: Used as a primary solvent in the automotive and wood finish industries to manage drying rates and improve film properties.
- Adhesive and Sealant Production: Employed to dissolve resins and polymers, ensuring consistent viscosity and excellent surface wetting characteristics during application.
- Leather Finishing and Tanning: Acts as an carrier solvent in the application of protective finishes and colorants onto leather goods and upholstery.
- Printing Ink Manufacture: Serves as an essential medium-boiling solvent in flexographic and gravure printing inks to optimize drying and adhesion on substrates.
- Chemical Synthesis and Extraction: Utilized as an extraction solvent in pharmaceutical processes and organic synthesis due to its low solubility in water.
Hazmat & Shipping
N-Butyl Acetate is classified as a hazardous material for transport. It must be shipped as UN1123, Hazard Class 3, Packing Group III. The verbatim proper shipping name for transport is Butyl acetates. Under GHS guidelines, this product carries the signal word Danger. Safe transport requires strict compliance with DOT regulations for flammable liquids, including the use of proper placards and certified packaging materials. At Alliance Chemical, we ensure all shipments of this regulated solvent comply fully with safety regulations, utilizing trusted freight networks for safe delivery.
Handling this flammable liquid requires appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as dictated by the GHS hazard statements. To mitigate risks associated with H226 (flammable liquid and vapor) and H336 (may cause drowsiness or dizziness), personnel must wear chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing, and safety goggles. To prevent exposure from inhalation and avoid skin dryness or cracking associated with EUH066, ensure adequate ventilation or use respiratory protection in confined spaces. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before handling this chemical to ensure all safety measures are implemented.
Handling & Storage
Store N-Butyl Acetate in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, open flames, and ignition sources. Safe storage temperatures should be maintained between 50°F and 85°F to preserve product stability and prevent vaporization. This solvent is compatible with steel, stainless steel, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers, but it can degrade certain rubbers and plastics. Avoid contact with incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases, which can cause hazardous reactions or accelerate ester hydrolysis.
Order & Documentation
We provide complete support for your procurement needs. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available upon request for every batch of N-Butyl Acetate we distribute, and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is provided with every order to ensure safe handling and regulatory compliance. To secure your supply, you can Order N-Butyl Acetate now or Request a Quote for bulk pricing.
Why Buy from Alliance Chemical
Since 1997, Alliance Chemical has supplied premium industrial chemicals from Taylor, Texas under CAGE Code 1LT50, with a COA and SDS included on every order. For industrial use only.