Butyric Anhydride
Other Names
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Butanoic Anhydride
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Butyric Acid Anhydride
CAS Number: 105-54-4
Chemical Formula: C₈H₁₄O₃
Molecular Weight: 146.19 g/mol
📘 1. Definition
Butyric Anhydride is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor. It is an acid anhydride derived from butyric acid. It is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of esters, pharmaceuticals, plasticizers, and specialty chemicals.
🧪 2. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₈H₁₄O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 146.19 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Strong, pungent, rancid-like |
| Boiling Point | 176–178 °C |
| Melting Point | –54 °C |
| Density | 0.900 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Reacts with water; soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, acetone |
| Stability | Reacts violently with water, alcohols, amines; corrosive |
🧰 3. Applications / Uses
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Chemical Industry | Intermediate in the production of esters, flavoring agents, and plasticizers |
| Pharmaceuticals | Intermediate in drug synthesis |
| Flavors & Fragrances | Synthesis of butyrate esters (e.g., ethyl butyrate, aroma compounds) |
| Agrochemicals | Intermediate for pesticides and herbicides |
| Polymer & Plastic Industry | Production of plasticizers and coatings |
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Function: Butyric Anhydride reacts with alcohols or amines to form esters or amides, which are widely used in flavors, fragrances, and specialty chemicals.
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Advantages: High reactivity and efficiency in esterification processes.
⚠️ 4. Safety & Handling
| Hazard | Details |
|---|---|
| Toxicity | Corrosive; can cause severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract |
| Inhalation | Irritating and harmful; can cause coughing and shortness of breath |
| Flammability | Flammable liquid; should be kept away from open flames |
| PPE | Gloves, goggles, face shield, protective clothing, and respirator required |
| Storage | Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from water and moisture |
| Handling | Avoid contact with water, alcohols, and strong bases; use proper ventilation and spill containment |
📌 5. Summary
Butyric Anhydride is a reactive acid anhydride used in esterification, pharmaceuticals, flavors, fragrances, agrochemicals, and plastics. It is highly corrosive and flammable, requiring strict handling, storage, and PPE measures. Its chemical reactivity makes it a key intermediate in multiple industrial processes.
