Butyl Levulinate (CAS 2052-15-5) is a bio-based ester derived from levulinic acid. Serves as a green alternative in various industries due to its low toxicity and eco-friendly profile. It is commonly used as a solvent, flavoring agent, and fuel additive, offering excellent solvency, biodegradability, and compatibility with multiple applications.
Butyl Levulinate imparts bitter, caramel, and fruity notes, making it ideal for food and fragrance formulations. Its non-toxic nature positions it as a safer substitute for traditional solvents in paints, coatings, and industrial cleaners.
Technical Specifications
| ITEMS | SPECIFICATIONS |
| Appearance | Colorless transparent liquid |
| Purity | ≥99.0% |
| Acid Value | ≤0.1% |
| Moisture | ≤0.5% |
Packaging and Storage
- Net weight 25kg/200kg plastics drum or 1000kg IBC drum.
- Store in a dry, cool and ventilated warehouse.
Benefits of Using Butyl Levulinate
Sustainability:
Derived from renewable biomass, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting circular economy principles.
Low Toxicity:
Classified as low concern by EPA, with minimal health risks when handled properly; safer than traditional solvents.
Performance Enhancement:
Improves product stability, solvency, and sensory attributes in formulations.
Cost-Effectiveness:
Bio-based production can lower long-term costs while meeting green chemistry standards.
Applications of Butyl Levulinate
Flavor and Fragrance Industry:
As a FEMA GRAS flavoring agent, it enhances food products with caramel and fruity profiles, used in concentrations up to 10 ppm.
Paints and Coatings:
Acts as a coalescing agent in water-based coatings, improving film formation and durability while reducing VOC emissions.
Fuel Additives:
Improves diesel fuel properties like conductivity, lubricity, and cold flow, making it a bio-based enhancer for biofuels.
Chemical Synthesis:
Serves as an intermediate for producing chiral reagents, lubricants, valerates, and absorbents in pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing.
Solvents and Cleaners:
Used as a non-toxic solvent for machinery lubrication, cleaning, and as a cosolvent in industrial formulations.
Plastics and Polymers:
Functions as a plasticizer to enhance flexibility in polymer products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Butyl Levulinate used for?
Butyl Levulinate is primarily used as a flavoring agent in food, a coalescing solvent in paints, a fuel additive, and a chemical intermediate in pharmaceuticals and polymers.
Is Butyl Levulinate safe for food applications?
Yes, it is FEMA GRAS certified, meaning it is generally recognized as safe for use in food flavorings at approved levels.
How should Butyl Levulinate be stored?
Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames to maintain stability.
Can Butyl Levulinate be used as a fuel additive?
Yes, it enhances diesel fuel properties such as lubricity and cold flow, making it suitable for biofuel blends.
Where can I buy high-quality Butyl Levulinate?
You can contact us via email [email protected] for offers and bulk orders.