ethanol vs isobutanol
Compared with ethanol (Cas 64-17-5), isobutanol (CAS 78-83-1) has higher energy density, lower oxygen content, and hygroscopicity, making it an ideal gasoline additive or substitute.
What Is ethanol (Cas 64-17-5)?
Ethanol is used in the manufacture of acetic acid, beverages, flavours, dyestuffs, fuels, and so on. Ethanol with a volume fraction of 70% to 75% is also commonly used as a medical disinfectant. It is widely used in chemical industry, health care, food industry, industrial and agricultural production and other fields.
What Is Isobutanol (CAS 78-83-1)?
Isobutanol (C₄H₁₀O) is a colorless, transparent liquid with a characteristic odor and high chemical reactivity, widely used in industrial and consumer products. Its main applications include:
- Solvent: Used as a highly efficient solvent in the manufacture of paints, inks, resins, and adhesives due to its excellent volatility and solubility.
- Chemical Intermediate: Used in the synthesis of isobutyl acetate (fragrance and solvent), plasticizers (such as phthalates), and intermediates for pharmaceuticals and pesticides.
- Fuel Additive: When mixed with gasoline, it can increase the octane rating and reduce engine knocking.
- Chemicals and Cleaning Agents: Used in the production of detergents, cosmetic fragrances, and industrial cleaning agents.
- Other Applications: Isobutanol is used as an auxiliary agent in the rubber, textile, and electronics industries, or in the extraction of biofuels.
Chemical Structure & Properties
| Item | Ethanol | Isobutanol |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Ethyl Alcohol | Isobutyl Alcohol |
| CAS No. | 64-17-5 | 78-83-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₆O | C₄H₁₀O |
| Structure | Linear | Branched |
| Molecular Weight | 46.07 | 74.12 |
Safety & Storage Considerations
Both are flammable liquids
Isobutanol has:
- Lower vapor pressure
- Reduced inhalation risk in industrial environments
- Ethanol requires stricter fire and evaporation control
Why Choose Gneebio as Your Supplier?
As a leading manufacturer and exporter of fine chemicals, Henan Gneebio provides ethanol and isobutanol that meets both industrial and laboratory-grade standards. We supply to customers across the chemical, pharmaceutical, and materials industries, ensuring consistent quality, reliable logistics, and professional technical support.
Our Advantages:
- We run advanced ISO9001, ISO14001, and GMP-certified production lines.
- Our products reach over 60 countries with long-term partners in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Ample inventory ensures fast, reliable bulk delivery.
- Gneebio provides personalized technical and business support from inquiry to after-sales.
Click here to get the latest ethanol and isobutanol Supplier market prices for 2026.
