Butyraldehyde

Butyraldehyde, or butanal, is an aldehyde with four carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C4H8O, and its structure is CH3-CH2-CH2-CHO. It is a colorless liquid with a sharp, penetrating odor and a boiling point near 70–75°C.

Industrial production and sources: Butyraldehyde is mainly produced by hydroformylation (oxo process) of propene using carbon monoxide and hydrogen in the presence of a transition-metal catalyst. The reaction yields butanal, with possible formation of isobutyraldehyde as a coproduct depending on catalysts and conditions. It can also be prepared by partial oxidation of 1-butanol or by other catalytic oxidation routes.

Chemical properties: The aldehyde group endows butyraldehyde with typical reactivity. It participates in nucleophilic additions to the carbonyl, forms acetals with alcohols, and can participate in aldol condensations. It can be oxidized to butanoic acid or reduced to 1-butanol. In aqueous solution it forms some hydrates.

Applications: Butyraldehyde is mainly used as a chemical intermediate and solvent. It serves as a building block in the production of plastics, resins, plasticizers, and other organic chemicals; it is also employed in fragrance and flavor industries and as a solvent for coatings and cleaning formulations.

Safety and handling: The substance is flammable and irritant. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. It should be stored in tightly closed containers, under appropriate ventilation, and handled with suitable protective equipment. Spills should be contained and cleaned with standard chemical safety procedures.