1. Properties:

• Appearance and physical form: sec-Butyl acetate is a transparent, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a pleasant fruity odor. Available in various grades (technical, reagent, high purity) with a purity of at least 98.0%.

• Solubility: sec-Butyl acetate is slightly soluble in water (0.8%) and floats on water. Miscible with most organic solvents, including alcohols, ethers, aromatic hydrocarbons, and other esters, making it an effective solvent for a wide range of resins, cellulose derivatives, oils, and fats.

• Chemical properties: sec-Butyl acetate is an ester formed by the esterification of sec-butanol (2-butanol) with acetic acid or acetic anhydride. It is a flammable liquid with a flash point of 62°F (16.7°C) and a wide explosive range in air (1.7–9.8% by volume), which requires careful handling. The product has a moderate boiling point (111–112°C) and high evaporation rate, which makes it ideal for applications requiring fast drying without excessive volatility of low-boiling esters. It is chemically stable but reacts violently with strong oxidizing acids; the reaction can be sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Vapors are heavier than air and can spread to ignition sources. May destroy some plastics and rubber. The recommended NIOSH exposure limit (REL) is TWA 200 ppm (950 mg/m³).

2. Applications:

• Paints, coatings and printing inks (main): sec-Butyl acetate is a key solvent in the production of nitrocellulose lacquers, drying oils, thinners, and automotive repair coatings due to its excellent solvency and high evaporation rate. Widely used in nail polishes and leather coatings, and also as a solvent in printing inks, paper coatings and textile sizing.

• Chemical synthesis and intermediates: Used as a solvent and reagent in organic synthesis, catalyst and petrochemical additive. Serves as an extraction solvent in the pharmaceutical industry.

• Adhesives and industrial cleaners: Used as a solvent in adhesive formulations and for cleaning and degreasing metal surfaces.

• Laboratory applications: Used as an analytical standard and laboratory reagent.

3. Production method:

• Industrial process: sec-Butyl acetate is produced by esterification of sec-butanol (2-butanol) with acetic acid or acetic anhydride in the presence of an acid catalyst. The product is purified by rectification to a purity of at least 98.0%.

4. Safety information:

• Hazard classification: sec-Butyl acetate is classified as a hazardous substance with hazard statements: H225 (Flammable liquid and vapor), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H335 (May cause respiratory irritation), H336 (May cause drowsiness and dizziness). Signal word: Dangerous. NFPA 704: Health hazard 1, Flammability 3, Instability 0. UN number: 1123 (Class 3, Packing Group III).

• Health hazards: Vapors may cause respiratory irritation, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. In high concentrations it has a narcotic effect. Causes skin irritation and may be absorbed through the skin. Causes eye irritation.

• First aid measures: If in eyes – rinse with water; if on skin – wash with soap and water; if inhaled – fresh air; if swallowed – rinse mouth, do NOT induce vomiting, seek medical attention.

• Fire and explosion hazard: Flammable liquid (flash point 16.7°C). Vapors can form explosive mixtures with air (1.7–9.8% vol.). In case of fire, use alcohol-resistant foam, powder, or CO₂. Water may be ineffective, but may be used to cool containers.

• Storage and stability: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Shelf life: 24–60 months in sealed original containers.

• Regulatory compliance: sec-Butyl acetate (CAS#105-46-4, EC#203-561-1) is listed in the EINECS, TSCA, and DSL registries. Regulated by OSHA (PEL: 200 ppm) and NIOSH (PEL: 200 ppm). For complete information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).