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N-Butanol

N-Butanol is a solvent widely used in manufacturing, coatings, and chemical synthesis across East Africa.

N-Butanol is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula C4H10O, widely employed as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate.

Packaging

10L containers, 20L containers, 200L drums

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is N-Butanol?

N-Butanol is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula C4H10O, widely employed as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. Its clear, colorless liquid form with a moderate water solubility and strong miscibility with organic solvents make it essential in processes requiring effective dissolution and evaporation properties.

Industries such as coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, printing inks, and cosmetics heavily rely on N-Butanol for its ability to improve product performance and processing efficiency. In East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, N-Butanol supports manufacturing sectors that demand reliable solvent solutions for improved product quality and cost management.

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies N-Butanol with consistent quality and secure packaging to meet regional industrial demands. Our seamless supply and technical support enable manufacturers to maintain uninterrupted production while optimizing solvent usage in compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

N-Butanol: Detailed Product Overview

N-Butanol (C4H10O) belongs to the group of primary alcohols, characterized by a straight-chain structure with a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to the first carbon atom. This molecular structure gives it distinct physical and chemical properties suited for industrial solvent applications. N-Butanol is moderately soluble in water—enough to blend in some aqueous formulations—while fully miscible with many organic solvents like acetone and esters. This balance makes it particularly effective in coating formulations and adhesives.

Its solvent action works by disrupting intermolecular forces in solutes, facilitating the dissolution of resins, oils, or polymers. This capability accelerates drying times due to its moderate evaporation rate, striking an optimal balance between rapid evaporation and sufficient working time in manufacturing lines.

Chemically, N-Butanol can act as an intermediate in synthesizing esters used in fragrances and plasticizers, adding to its versatile industrial relevance. Its relatively low toxicity compared to other butanol isomers and controlled flammability profile require standard handling precautions but allow broad use across pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Performance-wise, N-Butanol’s distinct odor and ability to improve the uniformity of coatings and inks make it a preferred choice to enhance product consistency and reduce defects. It also dissolves a broad range of chemical species, facilitating complex synthetic routes. Buyers must confirm purity and grade standards with suppliers like Zenco Systems Ltd to ensure compatibility with specific manufacturing requirements in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries.

Applications and Uses of N-Butanol

Solvent in Coatings

N-Butanol serves as an effective solvent in coatings, improving pigment dispersion and resin solubility. Its evaporation rate balances drying times to avoid defects like cracking or uneven surfaces. Manufacturers rely on it to formulate durable paints and varnishes for industrial and decorative uses in East Africa.

Adhesive Production

In adhesives manufacturing, N-Butanol dissolves polymer bases and plasticizers, aiding in consistent adhesive strength and flexibility. It enables controlled viscosity and drying, critical in the production of pressure-sensitive tapes and industrial bonding agents.

Chemical Intermediate

N-Butanol acts as a chemical intermediate in synthesizing butyl esters, which are widely used in plasticizers, solvents, and perfumery chemicals. Its reactivity with acids and anhydrides facilitates conversion to derivatives important in specialty chemical manufacturing.

Pharmaceuticals

As a solvent and reagent, N-Butanol is used in pharmaceutical manufacturing for extraction and formulation processes. Its purity and low chemical reactivity relative to other alcohols make it suitable for intermediate steps in drug synthesis, especially in Kenya and Tanzania's growing pharmaceutical sector.

Cosmetics Manufacturing

N-Butanol is applied as a solvent to dissolve oils and fragrances in cosmetic formulations, improving product texture and stability. Its moderate evaporation helps in controlled drying of lotions and perfumes, ensuring consistent user experience and product performance.

Printing Inks

In printing ink production, N-Butanol is valued for dissolving pigments and resins uniformly, enhancing ink flow and print quality. Its solvent characteristics contribute to fast drying and adhesion on various substrates, supporting the packaging and publishing industries.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Cleaning & Disinfection range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Versatile Solvent Compatibility

N-Butanol dissolves a wide spectrum of resins, polymers, and oils because of its balanced polarity, helping formulators achieve stable, homogeneous mixtures. This versatility reduces the need for multiple solvents, lowering procurement complexity and costs.

Optimized Evaporation Rate

The moderate evaporation rate of N-Butanol delivers sufficient open time during processing but ensures timely drying, reducing production bottlenecks and improving throughput. This balance prevents defects linked to too fast or too slow solvent loss.

Reliable Regional Supply with Technical Support

Sourcing from Zenco Systems Ltd ensures access to N-Butanol stocked within East Africa, minimizing delivery delays. Our technical team advises on grade selection and compliance requirements, helping manufacturers optimize solvent use while meeting safety standards.

Cost-Effective Chemical Intermediate

Used as a precursor in chemical synthesis, N-Butanol enables the production of valuable esters and derivatives at competitive costs. Direct regional supply reduces import expenses, benefitting industries in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Packaging Information

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies N-Butanol in multiple packaging formats suited to different industrial needs, including 10L and 20L containers for smaller-scale users and 200L drums for bulk industrial applications. These packaging options facilitate efficient handling and storage across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring East African markets. Bulk supply arrangements can be tailored for larger orders, supporting seamless logistics and local distribution.

Standard formats: 10L containers, 20L containers, 200L drums

Storage and Handling

Store N-Butanol in tightly sealed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, or open flames due to its flammability. Containers must be compatible with alcohols—preferably steel or approved plastics—to prevent contamination or degradation. Segregate from strong oxidizers and acids. Exposure to air and moisture can slightly affect quality over time, so ensure containers are properly closed after use. Follow standard personal protective protocols including gloves and goggles during handling to avoid skin and eye irritation.

Safety Information

N-Butanol is flammable and can cause skin and eye irritation; therefore, using protective gloves, goggles, and appropriate clothing is essential during handling. Avoid inhalation of vapors and ensure good ventilation in storage and application areas. In case of contact, rinse affected areas with water and seek medical advice if irritation persists. Dispose of N-Butanol waste according to local hazardous chemical regulations. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive hazard and first-aid instructions.

Full hazard detail is available in the technical data sheet.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.81 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC4H10O
Packaging10L containers, 20L containers, 200L drums
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number71-36-3
SolubilityModerately soluble in water, miscible with organic solvents
Flash Point35 °C (closed cup)
Boiling Point117.7 °C
Chemical NameN-Butanol
Storage ConditionsCool, ventilated, away from ignition sources

Applications

  • Solvent in coatings
  • Adhesive production
  • Chemical intermediate
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Cosmetics manufacturing
  • Printing inks

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.81 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC4H10O
Packaging10L containers, 20L containers, 200L drums
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number71-36-3
SolubilityModerately soluble in water, miscible with organic solvents
Flash Point35 °C (closed cup)
Boiling Point117.7 °C
Chemical NameN-Butanol
Storage ConditionsCool, ventilated, away from ignition sources

Product Features

  • - Primary alcohol with formula C4H10O
  • - Colorless, transparent liquid
  • - Moderate water solubility
  • - Excellent miscibility with organic solvents
  • - Moderate evaporation rate
  • - Flammable with characteristic alcohol odor

Industries Served

  • - Coatings and paints
  • - Adhesives
  • - Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • - Cosmetics
  • - Printing and packaging
  • - Chemical synthesis

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About N-Butanol

What are the primary uses of N-Butanol in industrial settings?

N-Butanol is mainly used as a solvent in coatings and adhesives, a chemical intermediate for producing esters, and in pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing for dissolving oils and fragrances.

What packaging sizes of N-Butanol are available from Zenco Systems Ltd?

Zenco supplies N-Butanol in 10L and 20L containers for smaller needs and 200L drums for bulk industrial use, facilitating convenient handling and transport across East Africa.

Is N-Butanol flammable and what precautions are necessary?

Yes, N-Butanol is flammable with a flash point around 35°C. Store away from ignition sources, use protective gloves and eyewear when handling, and ensure good ventilation.

Can Zenco Systems Ltd supply N-Butanol outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies N-Butanol to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other neighboring East African countries through established logistics networks.

What purity levels are typical for industrial N-Butanol sourced in East Africa?

Purity levels can vary; buyers should confirm exact specifications and certificates of analysis with Zenco Systems Ltd based on intended application requirements.

How should N-Butanol be stored to maintain quality?

Store N-Butanol in tightly sealed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and incompatible substances to prevent degradation and evaporation losses.

Is N-Butanol suitable for use in pharmaceutical processes?

Yes, with appropriate grade and purity confirmation, N-Butanol is used in pharmaceuticals as a solvent and reagent for extraction and formulation steps.

What is the typical shelf life of N-Butanol under recommended storage conditions?

Properly stored N-Butanol maintains quality for several months; however, confirm storage duration and shelf life details with the supplier for specific batches.

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