1,4-Butanediol stands out as a widely recognized chemical, serving as a crucial raw material in various industrial applications. Known in the chemical world by the formula C4H10O2 and carrying the HS Code 29053990, this organic compound holds a central position in the manufacture of polymers, solvents, and fine chemicals. In my hands-on experience dealing with chemical sourcing for manufacturing, clear understanding of this chemical and its properties has eased decision processes around safe storage, shipment, and application.
Transparent and practically colorless in appearance, 1,4-Butanediol can be found in several forms, such as liquid, solid, flakes, crystals, pearls, or powder. In the industry, most will recognize its colorless viscous liquid state, though solid forms like flakes and pearls also play their part, especially during cold storage or specialized uses. With a specific molecular weight of 90.12 g/mol, the structure shows a straight four-carbon chain with hydroxyl groups at each end — the classic formula of HO–(CH2)4–OH. The melting point hovers around 20.1°C to 20.2°C, which means it can shift from solid to liquid around standard room temperature. Density lands at about 1.017 g/cm3 at 25°C, and the boiling point settles near 230°C. When handling this material, I always pay close attention to purity levels, typically not less than 99.5% to meet the rigors of downstream production. Multiform availability has given buyers flexibility, allowing adaptation based on equipment capability or customer preference.
1,4-Butanediol’s molecular structure gives it dual hydroxyl reactivity, making it valuable for synthesizing polyurethanes, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and other specialty polymers. The bifunctional alcohol structure means it acts as an effective chain extender or crosslinker, lending strength and flexibility in certain plastic and elastomer formulations. Users in my network often cite its high solubility in water — over 1 kg per liter at 20°C — enabling easy mixing and fast dissolution in many solvent systems. Its viscosity and low vapor pressure at ambient conditions provide a practical edge during processing, minimizing workplace inhalation risks relative to more volatile solvents or monomers.
Safety cannot take a back seat when discussing 1,4-Butanediol. By regulation, this material qualifies as hazardous, with concerns tied primarily to ingestion and misuse. The liquid is harmful if swallowed and can pose depressant effects on the central nervous system, resembling the dangers associated with industrial solvents. In some countries, strict controls govern its sale and distribution, reinforcing the need for vetted suppliers and clear documentation. When I have handled this chemical in production environments, personal protective equipment — gloves, goggles, and appropriate ventilation — proved necessary. Proper storage, away from oxidizing materials and kept cool, dry, and tightly sealed, has prevented spoilage and accidental exposure on my watch. Each drum or canister carries SDS (Safety Data Sheet) details to align with hazardous chemical regulations and safe workplace standards.
Manufacturers reach for 1,4-Butanediol to drive processes ranging from spandex fiber creation to solvent systems for industrial adhesives and coatings. Demand for durable, flexible engineering plastics depends heavily on high-purity BDO as a precursor. I have seen firsthand how fluctuations in purity, density, or delivery form — whether flakes for transport or liquid for in-line blending — can impact both end-product performance and downstream equipment longevity. Solutions for reducing risk hinge on transparent supplier relationships, investment in secure, corrosion-resistant containers, and rigorous batch testing. When regulations shift or accident risks rise, companies would do well to educate workers on emergency response and invest in control technologies that monitor airborne concentrations or spillage. Because this material will always attract attention for its dual-use applications, documentation, traceability, and workforce competency become as essential as the chemical itself.
In a world that pays closer attention to responsible chemical management, understanding the structure, formula, and safe handling of 1,4-Butanediol sits front and center for anyone involved in supply chain, product development, or environmental health and safety. Whether managing raw material streams or setting up manufacturing recipes, practical experience has taught me that a holistic approach — spanning from molecular details to on-the-ground hazard controls — creates the greatest value and reduces headaches. Suppliers and users must keep a close eye on documentation, purity certification, and ongoing compliance checks, not just for legal peace of mind but also to support long-term success and safety in the industries that depend on this versatile and sometimes risky material.
