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Alcohols & Glycols

Propylene glycol n-butyl ether

CAS: 5131-66-8

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 Point171 °C @ Press: 751 Torr
Density0.88 g/cm³ (liquid) @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point62°C
ColorColorless to Almost colorless
OdorEther-like odor
Formclear liquid
Water Solubility55g/L at 20℃
Vapor Pressure1.39hPa at 19.85℃
Refractive Indexn20/D 1.416(lit.)
Log P1.2 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 Code2909.49.6000
WGK (Germany)1

Other Names

n-Butoxy-2-propanol | RefChem:75241 | 1-Butoxy-2-propanol | 1-Butoxypropan-2-ol | 2-PROPANOL1-BUTOXY- | n-Butoxypropanol | 2-Hydroxy-3-butoxypropane | Propasol solvent B | PnB

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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

Industries

Documentation