isomers1butanol

1-Butanol, also known as n-butanol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3CH2CH2CH2OH. It is a linear, four-carbon alcohol. 1-Butanol is a colorless liquid with a characteristic banana-like odor. It is miscible with most organic solvents and is moderately soluble in water.

1-Butanol is a structural isomer of other butanol compounds, including 2-butanol, isobutanol (2-methyl-1-propanol), and tert-butanol (2-methyl-2-propanol). These isomers share the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of their atoms.

Industrially, 1-butanol is primarily produced through the oxo process, also known as hydroformylation, where propylene reacts with carbon monoxide and hydrogen. It can also be produced through fermentation processes.

1-Butanol finds extensive use as a solvent for paints, lacquers, resins, dyes, and natural gums. It is also employed as an extractant in the production of pharmaceuticals and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of butyl acetate, butyl acrylate, and other esters, which are used in flavors, fragrances, and plasticizers. Additionally, it can be used as a fuel additive or as a biofuel.