Understanding Butylphenol: Properties, Uses and Production

2-tert butyl phenol also known as ortho tertiary butyl phenol, refers to a colourless organic compound with the formula (CH3)3CC6H4OH. It dissolves in water and can be prepared by acid-catalysed alkylation of phenol with isobutene.

Properties

Ortho-tert butyl phenol is a chemical compound with a clear colourless and pale-yellow appearance. It is a vicious liquid with a density of 0.982 at room temperature.

The CAS number is 88-18-6. The molecular weight and formula are 150.22 and C10H140 respectively. The boiling point is 224 degrees Celsius while the melting point is –7 degrees Celsius. This chemical is insoluble in water but miscible in Isopentane, Toluene and Ethyl Alcohol. In addition, it is reacting with 10% NaOH.

Uses

The most common use of ortho tert butyl phenol is in chemical intermediates, flavour and fragrances. Moreover, it is also used as a critical component in products like flame retardants, fuels, antioxidants and plastics. Ortho-tertiary butyl phenol is utilized as an intermediate in perfumery ingredients and ortho 2- tertiary butyl cyclo hexyl acetate. Cis 2-tert-butylcyclohexanol is manufactured by hydrogenating ortho-tertiary butyl phenol in the presence of catalysts.

Agriculture and consumer goods industries use this chemical as a raw material in the production of insecticides and other agro-products. Ortho tert butyl phenol is the raw material for the synthesis of various antioxidants and agrochemicals.

Production

For obtaining 2 tert butylphenol, phenol is first reacted with isobutene in the presence of sulfonated polystyrene-Poly divinylbenzene ion exchange resin. The reaction of phenols with isobutylene at a specific molar ratio at 95 degrees Celsius results in a product mixture. OTBP compound is tabletted with 10% graphite and then preconditioned by exposing it to 650 degrees Celsius in an airstream. Based on phenol conversion, the selectivity for CAS 88-18-6 can be 88%.

Conclusion

Vinati Organics is the world’s largest manufacturer of IBB and ATBS. We blend innovation with chemistry to deliver value-added products to our varied clientele. We have a strong presence in more than 35 countries in the world. Since our inception in 1989, we have evolved from a single product manufactured to an integrated business which supplies a range of products to some of the largest industrial and chemical companies in the US, Europe and Asia.

All our investments in R and D are aimed at modifying the use of catalysts, equipment, processes and operating parameters. Moreover, to make a sustainable difference, we invest in technologies that minimise the impact of climate change and allows us to develop green chemistry.

We produce ortho tertiary butyl phenol in two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located in Maharashtra. They are integrated with a B2B business model, advanced technologies and adhere to environmentally friendly practices.