4aminobutanol

4-aminobutanol, or 4-aminobutan-1-ol, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C4H11NO (molar mass about 89.1 g/mol). It contains both a primary amine group (−NH2) and a primary alcohol group (−CH2OH) on a four-carbon chain.

Chemistry and properties: The molecule's two functional groups confer reactivity typical of amines and alcohols. It can undergo acylation to give amides, alkylation or alkyl ester formation of the alcohol, and is susceptible to oxidation at the alcohol to aldehyde or carboxylic acid under appropriate conditions. It can be converted into derivatives such as protected amino alcohols and serves as a versatile intermediate in organic synthesis.

Production and applications: 4-aminobutanol is mainly used as a chemical intermediate. It serves as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty polymers. It can be prepared by several synthetic routes in organic chemistry, including reduction of higher-oxidation-state precursors bearing the same carbon skeleton or from haloalcohol substrates via nucleophilic substitution, followed by amination, depending on the route.

Safety: As with many small amine-alcohol compounds, 4-aminobutanol can be irritating to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. It should be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment and in a well-ventilated facility, following standard chemical-handling practices. Consult the safety data sheet for specific hazards and disposal guidance.

Synonyms and related compounds: 4-aminobutanol, gamma-aminobutanol, gamma-aminobutyl alcohol, 4-aminobutan-1-ol.