09 April 2001
The skinny on 1,4-butanediol
- Chemical Abstracts Service number: 110-63-4
- Chemical formula: C4H10O2
- Structural formula: HO(CH2)4OH
- Colorless oily liquid, clear colorless liquid at ambient temperatures
- Flammability (flash point): This chemical has a flash point of 119°C (247°F). It is combustible. Control fires involving this material with a dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or Halon extinguisher.
- Stability: This chemical is hygroscopic. It is heat and light sensitive.
- Uses: solvents, humectant, intermediate for plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, cross-linking agent in polyurethane elastomers, manufacture of tetrahydrofuran, and terephthalate plastics. Ideal for applications in engineering, thermoplastics, personal care products, polyurethanes, co-polyester ethers, and pharmaceuticals. It is widely used in the automotive, pharmaceutical, electrical connector, and consumer goods sectors.
- Acute/Chronic hazards: When heated to decomposition, this compound emits toxic fumes of CO and CO2. It may also emit toxic fumes of tetrahydrofuran and other aliphatic fragments.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of exposure to this compound include nausea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, and vomiting. It may also cause miosis, unconsciousness, and coma.
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