Gamma-Butyrolactone

Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) is a hygroscopic colorless liquid with a weak characteristic odor and profoundly bitter taste. It is a common solvent and reagent in chemistry and is used as an aroma compound, as a stain remover, as a superglue remover, as a paint stripper, and as a solvent in some wet aluminium electrolyte capacitors.

History

GBL was first synthesized in the late 19th century by the French chemist Auguste Laurent. It was initially used as a solvent for cellulose acetate and was later used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins and other polymers.

Production

GBL is produced industrially by dehydrogenation of 1,4-butanediol at high temperatures over a copper catalyst. It can also be obtained from the oxidation of tetrahydrofuran (THF).

Uses

GBL is used as a solvent and reagent in many chemical reactions. It has a wide range of applications, including as a cleaning agent, a paint stripper, a superglue remover, and a solvent in some wet aluminium electrolyte capacitors. In the pharmaceutical industry, GBL is used in the production of pyrrolidones, which are widely used in many kinds of pharmaceuticals.

Health effects

GBL is a prodrug for gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), which means it is converted into GHB in the body after ingestion. GHB is a substance with psychoactive effects, and its use can lead to harmful health effects such as respiratory arrest, coma, and death.

Legal status

The production, sale, and use of GBL are regulated in many countries due to its potential for misuse as a recreational drug and its health risks. In some countries, it is classified as a controlled substance.

See also

• 1,4-Butanediol
• Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid
• Tetrahydrofuran