Overview
Propylene glycol n-butyl ether (CAS 5131-66-8 ), commonly abbreviated as PnB and also marketed as 1-Butoxy-2-propanol, is a slow-evaporating glycol ether solvent used across coatings and industrial formulations.
Its controlled evaporation rate and compatibility with both water-based and solvent-based systems make it a preferred choice for formulators managing film formation and flow in various chemical applications.
In architectural and industrial coatings, PnB functions as a coalescing aid and flow promoter, improving film leveling in waterborne latex systems. It is essential for achieving high-quality surface finishes.
Automotive refinish and OEM coating formulators use it to extend open time and reduce surface defects in spray-applied finishes. This ensures a smooth application process and durable final product results.
In printing inks for packaging applications, it supports pigment dispersion and press stability across flexographic and gravure processes. This versatility makes it a staple in the modern printing industry.
Hard-surface cleaners and industrial degreasers incorporate PnB to solubilize oils and greases while remaining compatible with water-dilutable concentrate formats for efficient cleaning performance.
Propylene glycol n-butyl ether is supplied as a clear liquid in standard packaging including drums and IBC totes. Bulk liquid is also available for high-volume procurement and large-scale manufacturing.
Technical grade is the primary commercial specification, meeting purity requirements for coatings. Solvent-grade material is commonly evaluated against established benchmarks for purity and water content.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -15.45°C (estimate) |
| Boiling Point | 171 °C @ Press: 751 Torr |
| Density | 0.88 g/cm³ (liquid) @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | 62°C |
| Color | Colorless to Almost colorless |
| Odor | Ether-like odor |
| Form | clear liquid |
| Water Solubility | 55g/L at 20℃ |
| Vapor Pressure | 1.39hPa at 19.85℃ |
| Refractive Index | n20/D 1.416(lit.) |
| Log P | 1.2 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2909.49.6000 |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 5131-66-8
- EC Number
- 225-878-4
- Mol. Weight
- 132.20
- HS Code
- 2909.49.6000
- Category
- Alcohols & Glycols