N-Propanol: A Versatile Solvent with Expanding Industrial Demand
N-Propanol, also known as 1-propanol, is a colorless, flammable liquid alcohol with a mild alcoholic odor and the chemical formula C₃H₇OH. As a primary alcohol, it belongs to the family of aliphatic alcohols and is widely used across various industries due to its excellent solvent properties.
Production and Properties
N-Propanol is primarily produced through the oxo process, which involves the hydroformylation of ethylene to form butyraldehyde, followed by hydrogenation. It has a boiling point of around 97.2°C and is miscible with most organic solvents and water.
Applications
N-Propanol serves multiple roles in industrial and commercial applications:
Solvent: It is extensively used as a solvent in inks, coatings, paints, and dyes, particularly in the printing industry.
Pharmaceuticals: It acts as an intermediate in the manufacture of drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Used in perfumes and antiseptics due to its quick evaporation rate.
Cleaning Agents: A component in disinfectants and surface cleaners, especially where low odor and fast drying are required.
Chemical Intermediate: In the production of propylene derivatives, esters, and plasticizers.