Tert-Butanol CAS 75-65-0

Tert-Butanol, also known as tert-Butyl alcohol or2-Methyl-2-propanol, is a tertiary alcohol with the chemical formula (CH₃)₃COH and a CAS number of75-65-0. It is characterized by its colorless, oily liquid form and a sharp alcohol odor. Tert-Butanol is miscible with water, ethanol, and diethyl ether, making it a versatile solvent in various applications.
Physical Properties
Molecular Weight:74.12 g/mol- Boiling Point: Approximately81-83 °C (180-181 °F)
Density: About0.78 g/cm³ at20 °C- Freezing Point:78 °F (approximately26 °C)- Vapor Density:2.5 (compared to air)- Water Solubility: Completely miscible.
Production and Purification
Tert-Butanol is primarily produced from isobutane as a coproduct of propylene oxide production. It can also be synthesized through the catalytic hydration of isobutylene or via a Grignard reaction involving acetone and methylmagnesium chloride. Due to its tendency to form an azeotrope with water, purification cannot be achieved through simple distillation. Instead, initial drying is performed using benzene, followed by fractional distillation to obtain anhydrous tert-Butanol.
Applications
Tert-Butanol serves multiple purposes, including:
Solvent: Used in various chemical reactions and processes.
Ethanol Denaturant: Commonly added to ethanol to make it unfit for consumption.
Chemical Intermediate: Essential in the production of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE) through reactions with methanol and ethanol, respectively.
Gasoline Additive: Acts as an octane booster and oxygenate in fuels.
Safety and Handling
While tert-Butanol is widely used, it is important to handle it with care due to its irritating vapors and potential health risks. It has been suggested that there may be evidence of carcinogenic potential based on studies involving thyroid tumors in mice. Proper safety measures should be taken when working with this chemical to minimize exposure and risks.
In summary, tert-Butanol is a significant chemical compound with diverse applications in industrial and laboratory settings, characterized by its unique properties and production methods.