13butanediol

1,3-Butanediol, also known as butane-1,3-diol, is a four-carbon diol with hydroxyl groups on the first and third carbons. Its molecular formula is C4H10O2. It is a colorless, viscous liquid that is miscible with water and many organic solvents. As a vicinal diol, it serves primarily as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of polyurethanes, polyesters, and various solvents, and it also appears in some cosmetic formulations as a humectant and solvent.

Production methods for 1,3-butanediol come from both petrochemical and bio-based routes. Traditional chemical approaches involve catalytic transformations of oxygenated C4 precursors, while newer, renewable pathways use biotechnological methods to ferment sugars with engineered microorganisms to yield 1,3-butanediol. The choice of route depends on feedstock availability, economics, and desired purity.

Applications for 1,3-butanediol are broad within the chemical industry. It is used as a building block for polyols in polyurethane and polyester production, and as a solvent or co-solvent in various industrial formulations. In addition, it is explored as a renewable, bio-based diol option in green chemistry programs and in formulations requiring low volatile organic compound content.

Safety and handling follow standard chemical hygiene practices. It is generally handled as a low-to-moderate hazard chemical: it can cause irritation to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract upon exposure, and should be kept away from heat and sources of ignition. Proper storage in a cool, ventilated area away from oxidizers is recommended.