INTRODUCTION

γ-Butyrolactone (GBL) is a hygroscopic colorless, water-miscible liquid with a weak characteristic odor. It is the simplest 4-carbon lactone. It is mainly used as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals, e.g., methyl-2-pyrrolidone. In humans GBL acts as a prodrug for γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), and it is used as a recreational CNS depressant with effects like those of barbiturates.

Manufacture

γ-Butyrolactone is produced industrially by dehydrogenation of 1,4-butanediol at a temperature of 180–300 °C and atmospheric pressure in the presence of a copper catalyst.

Synonymsγ-Butalactone
1,4-Butanolide
Butyrolactone
Dihydro-2(3H)-furanone
4-Hydroxybutyric acid τ-lactone
CAS no.96-48-0
EINECS no.202-509-5
Molecular formulaC4H6O2
Molecular weight86.09
Structure

Applications

GBL serves as a chemical intermediate in the manufacturing of all pyrrolidones
It is used in the production of pesticides, herbicides and plant growth regulators
GBL is key intermediate in the production of
a) DL-methionine
b) Piperidine
c) 4-Phenylbutyric acid
d) Thiobutyric acid
e) Cyclopropylamine
f) 1-Tetralone
g) 3-Indolebutyric acid
h) Sorbic acid
Photochemical etching
Electrolytes of small batteries of capacitors
Viscosity modifiers in polyurerthanes
Surface etching of metal coated plastics
Organic paint disbursements for water soluble inks
pH regulators in the dyeing of wool and polyamide fibers foundry chemistry as a catalyst during curing
Curing agents in many coatings system based on urethanes and amides
As solvent in manufacture of Polyacrylonitrile, Cellulose acetate, PMMA
As ingredient in Paint removers, Textile aids, Drilling oils

SPECIFICATIONS

TestUnitSpecifications
AppearanceClear and colorless liquid
ColorAPHAMax 20.0
Purity (by GC)%Min 99.70
1,4-Butanediol (by GC)%Max 0.10
Acid as Butyric acid%Max 0.03
Water Content (by KF)%Max 0.05

STORAGE
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Store in cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.

PACKING

200 kg MS drum
1000 kg IBC
ISO-tank

REACH Status
GBL offered by ExSyn is registered under EU REACH regulations.

ExSyn offers GBL on commercial scales and welcomes enquiries. No matter the quantity you need, our exceptional quality and service will make ExSyn your supplier of choice! If you need any additional information or SDS, please get in touch with us.

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