Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC)
Other Names
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4-Methyl-2-pentanol
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MIBC
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4-Methylpentan-2-ol
CAS Number: 108-11-2
Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₄O
Molecular Weight: 102.17 g/mol
📘 1. Definition
Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC) is a colorless liquid alcohol with a mild alcohol-like odor. It is commonly used as a frother in mineral flotation, a solvent in paints and coatings, and as a chemical intermediate. MIBC has low water solubility and is valued for its low volatility, chemical stability, and effectiveness as a frother in ore processing.
🧪 2. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₄O |
| Molecular Weight | 102.17 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Alcohol-like |
| Boiling Point | 131–133 °C |
| Melting Point | –90 °C |
| Density | 0.81 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water |
| Flash Point | 38 °C (closed cup) |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; flammable |
🧰 3. Applications / Uses
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Mining / Metallurgy | Frother for flotation of copper, lead, zinc, and other ores |
| Paints & Coatings | Solvent and coalescing agent in paints, varnishes, and coatings |
| Chemical Industry | Intermediate for production of chemicals and lubricants |
| Polishing & Cleaning | Component in metalworking fluids and cleaners |
| Oil & Gas | Additive in drilling fluids for froth control |
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Function as Frother: MIBC stabilizes bubbles in flotation, improving separation efficiency of ore particles.
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Advantages: Low odor, low volatility, compatible with many solvents, and effective at low concentrations.
⚠️ 4. Safety & Handling
| Hazard | Details |
|---|---|
| Flammability | Highly flammable liquid; flash point 38 °C |
| Health | Can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation; ingestion toxic |
| PPE | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, and proper ventilation required |
| Storage | Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and oxidizers |
| Handling | Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with skin or eyes; use non-sparking tools |
📌 5. Summary
MIBC (Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol) is a versatile industrial alcohol used mainly as a frother in mining flotation, solvent in paints/coatings, and chemical intermediate. It is valued for its chemical stability, low volatility, and frothing efficiency, but requires careful handling due to flammability and health hazards.
