Isobutyl Acetate
Isobutyl acetate, or urethane class, is an organic ester compound with the molecular formula C6 H12 O2. This composition is neutral and colorless. Like other esters, it has a pleasant smell similar to the smell of fruits. This chemical substance is often used as a solvent in the production of polymers, resins, oils and cellulose. Isobutyl acetate is highly flammable. It is soluble in almost all common organic solvents (alcohol, ketone, glycol, ester). But its solubility in water is very low.
USES OF ISOBUTYL ACETATE
Isobutyl acetate is a very suitable solvent for polymers, resins, oils and cellulose. It is easily diluted with aliphatic hydrocarbons. Isobutyl acetate is mainly used in the paint and coating industries. It is used in surface coatings of wood industries, fairing coatings, printing inks and adhesives, marine applications. Other uses of isobutyl acetate include leather, perfume preparation and its use as a Decolorizer in processes. Economically, isobutyl acetate can be a good alternative to solvents such as methyl isobutyl acetate, regular butyl acetate, toluene and xylene in many formulations.
Other uses of isobutyl acetate are as follows:
Use in the production of cosmetics
Use in the production of cleaners
It is used as a flavoring agent in some food products.
ISOBUTYL ACETATE PRODUCTION PROCESS
The production method of isobutyl acetate is the esterification of isobutanol. Esterification is a reversible reaction between an alcohol and an organic acid (acetic acid) in the presence of a strong inorganic acid such as sulfuric acid, which produces a compound called an ester and is accompanied by water production. Decontamination is a reversible reaction between an alcohol and an organic acid (acetic acid).
C4H9OH+CH3COOH=>CH3COOC3H9
+H2o
First, butanol and acetic acid are given to the reaction, and then sulfuric acid is added in an amount of one percent of the weight as a catalyst. Due to the endothermic (heat field) nature of the esterification reaction, this reaction begins due to heat and continues until the temperature is constant throughout the distillation tower and a uniform state is formed. Therefore, the feedstock input flow to the reactor should be adjusted according to the distillation speed in the tower. After this stage is completed, water is decomposed from isobutyl acetate, and the percentage of isobutyl acetate obtained from this stage by weight is about 83, and contains a catalyst and residual alcohol. For the purification of isobutyl acetate, it is first neutralized with sodium carbonate in the neutralization tank and then washed with water.
After the two-phase liquid is formed, water is drained from the lower part. The top layer of this product, which is itself, is transferred to the distillation tower to increase purity. The treated product is taken from under the tower and transferred to the storage tank.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE METHODS
Due to the high flammability and volatility of isobutyl acetate, it is recommended to store this chemical solvent in a separate and approved area away from flammable and hazardous substances in open environments.
If the internal storage space is used, the container containing this material should be completely sealed and stored in a dry, cool and well-ventilated environment. Close the lid of the container containing this chemical well until it is used again. Prevent any fire source (such as sparks and flames) from reaching this material.
In case of leakage of this product, first dry the leaked material with dry soil, sand or a non-flammable material. Prevent leaks from entering sewers, basements or enclosed areas. If necessary, make a bent to stop the leak.