Dibutyl ether

Dibutyl Ether

Chemical structure of Dibutyl Ether

Dibutyl ether is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8H18O. It belongs to the class of compounds known as ethers, which are characterized by the presence of an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups. Dibutyl ether is a colorless liquid with a faint, sweet odor.

Properties

Dibutyl ether has a molecular weight of 130.23 g/mol and a boiling point of approximately 142 °C (288 °F). It is insoluble in water but miscible with most organic solvents. The compound is highly flammable and should be handled with care.

Synthesis

Dibutyl ether can be synthesized through the Williamson ether synthesis, which involves the reaction of an alkoxide ion with an alkyl halide. In this case, the reaction would typically involve the reaction of sodium butoxide with dibromobutane. The resulting product is then purified through distillation.

Uses

Dibutyl ether finds applications in various industries. It is commonly used as a solvent for various organic reactions, particularly in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It is also used as an extractant in the production of antibiotics and as a fuel additive to improve the combustion efficiency of gasoline.

Safety

Dibutyl ether is considered to be a hazardous substance and should be handled with caution. It is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. Proper safety precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and working in a well-ventilated area, should be followed when handling this compound.

See Also

• Ethers
• Organic Solvents
• Williamson Ether Synthesis