[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, safety technical specifications of n-propyl ester

Properties of n-Propyl Ester

n-propyl ester, chemical formula C4H8O2, is a colorless transparent liquid with aromatic odor. It has a molecular weight of 88.11, a boiling point of 101.6°C, a flash point of 14°C, and a density of 0.88g/cm³. N-propyl ester is insoluble in water, but it is miscible with most organic solvents such as ethanol and ether. These properties make n-propyl ester has its unique position in industrial applications.

n-Propyl use

N-propyl ester is widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical, paint, ink and other industries. In coatings and inks, n-propyl ester is often used as a solvent because of its good solubility and volatility, which can improve the leveling and gloss of the coating. In the pharmaceutical industry, n-propyl ester is used as an intermediate to participate in the synthesis of a variety of drugs. n-propyl ester is also used in the manufacture of cleaning agents, degreasers and other chemicals.

Upstream raw materials

The main upstream feedstocks for the production of n-propyl ester are propanol and propionic acid. Propanol is obtained by hydrogenation of propionaldehyde or catalytic hydrogenation of propylene, while propionic acid is produced mainly by oxidation of alkanes or fermentation of carbohydrates. Propanol and propionic acid are esterified in the synthesis reactor to produce n-propyl ester and water. The reaction is as follows: [\text{C3H7OH} \text{C2H4COOH} \rightarrow \text{C4H8O2} \text{H2O}]

Downstream Products

As an important chemical intermediate, n-propyl ester can be further processed into various downstream products. For example, in the coating industry, it can be used as a solvent or plasticizer to adjust the performance of the coating; in the pharmaceutical industry, it can be used as an intermediate in the synthesis of drugs; in the fragrance industry, it is an ingredient or intermediate for certain fragrances. N-propyl ester can also be used in the production of plastics, resins and other polymer materials.

Production process

The production of n-propyl ester usually uses esterification reaction process. Propanol and propionic acid are mixed in a certain ratio, and an appropriate amount of catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or p-toluenesulfonic acid, is added. The mixture is reacted by heating in a reactor, and n-propyl ester and water formed by the reaction are separated by a distillation column. The separated n-propyl ester is further purified to remove impurities, and finally a high purity product is obtained. The entire process requires strict control of temperature, pressure and reaction time to ensure product quality and yield.

market demand analysis

With the development of paint, ink, medicine and other industries, the market demand for n-propyl ester is increasing. Especially in the context of increasingly stringent environmental regulations, n-propyl ester as a low toxicity, low volatility solvent, gradually attracted attention. The potential application of n-propyl ester in the field of new materials and new energy also provides a new growth point for its market demand. Overall, the n-propyl ester market will maintain steady growth in the next few years.

storage method

N-propyl ester needs to be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from fire and heat sources. Because n-propyl ester is volatile and flammable, its storage environment should avoid direct sunlight and keep the container sealed to prevent leakage. The warehouse should be equipped with suitable fire extinguishing equipment, and the storage containers must be made of corrosion-resistant materials and should be inspected regularly to ensure safety.

Safety Precautions

N-propyl ester has certain toxicity and flammability, so it is necessary to pay attention to safety during use and storage. Operators should wear protective gloves, goggles and protective clothing to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. Workplaces should be well ventilated to prevent the risk of explosion due to the accumulation of vapours. In case of leakage, sand or other inert materials shall be used for adsorption and timely cleaning.

Environmental impact

The production and use of n-propyl ester may have a certain impact on the environment, such as the discharge of waste gas, waste water and waste residue. In order to reduce environmental pollution, production enterprises should take effective environmental protection measures, such as waste gas treatment devices, waste water treatment systems and solid waste recovery devices. The packaging and transportation of n-propyl ester should also meet environmental protection requirements to prevent leakage and pollution.

future development trend

With the progress of science and technology and the change of industrial demand, the application field of n-propyl ester will continue to expand. Especially in the fields of new materials, new energy and green chemical industry, n-propyl ester is expected to play a greater role. With the enhancement of environmental awareness and the improvement of laws and regulations, the production process of n-propyl ester will pay more attention to green environmental protection and promote the sustainable development of the industry. In the future, n-propyl ester has broad market prospects and great development potential.

As an important chemical product, n-propyl ester has a wide range of uses and good market prospects. Its production and application require strict process control and safety management to ensure product quality and environmental friendliness. With the progress of science and technology and the change of market demand, the application field of n-propyl ester will continue to expand, providing new impetus for the development of related industries.