| Names | |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC name | Butane-1,4-diol |
| Other names | 1,4-Dihydroxybutane Tetramethylene glycol 1,4-Butylene glycol BDO Butane-1,4-diol |
| Pronunciation | /ˈwʌn.fɔːr.bjuːˈteɪnˌdiː.ɒl/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 110-63-4 |
| Beilstein Reference | 635873 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:16987 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL1357 |
| ChemSpider | 7107 |
| DrugBank | DB02188 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03eafc78-4815-4bc8-b6a9-b5664b940819 |
| EC Number | 203-786-5 |
| Gmelin Reference | 15970 |
| KEGG | C01574 |
| MeSH | D017192 |
| PubChem CID | 8030 |
| RTECS number | EP2975000 |
| UNII | W9C6140U7J |
| UN number | UN 2810 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C4H10O2 |
| Molar mass | 90.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless, oily liquid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.017 g/cm³ (at 20 °C) |
| Solubility in water | Miscible |
| log P | -0.96 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.01 mmHg (20°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 14.52 |
| Basicity (pKb) | Insoluble in water, pKb: 15.0 (estimated) |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -7.74 × 10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.445 |
| Viscosity | 80 mPa·s (at 25 °C) |
| Dipole moment | 2.39 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 198.0 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | –569.2 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -2432.6 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | V03AB18 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS07, GHS08 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H302: Harmful if swallowed. |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P264, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P337+P313, P370+P378, P403+P235, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-3-0 |
| Flash point | 230°F (110°C) |
| Autoignition temperature | 370°C |
| Explosive limits | 2.0–14.0% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 (oral, rat): 1,525 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): Oral, rat: 1,525 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | WS560 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 50 ppm (230 mg/m³) |
| REL (Recommended) | 5 mg/m³ |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | 200 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | Tetrahydrofuran (THF) γ-Butyrolactone (GBL) Succinic acid Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) Butyric acid 1,2-Butanediol 2,3-Butanediol |
| Property | Manufacturer Commentary |
|---|---|
| Product Name / IUPAC Name | 1,4-Butanediol; Butane-1,4-diol. Specification and final naming may reflect end-use or national regulatory requirements. We reference IUPAC conventions for our specifications to facilitate cross-market acceptance. |
| Chemical Formula | C4H10O2. Our production team monitors molecular ratios closely in intermediate and final purification steps to ensure the final batch meets stoichiometric quality requirements for high-purity and technical grades. |
| Synonyms & Trade Names | 1,4-BDO, tetramethylene glycol, BD, BDO. Naming conventions may shift for regulatory, end user, or region-required labelling purposes. Direct supply contracts usually refer to common trade abbreviations for logistical documentation. |
| HS Code & Customs Classification | HS Code: 290539. International shipping requires accurate declaration under this harmonized code. Customs procedures may specify further sub-classification based on purity grade, solution/suspension status, or designated industrial application. Interpretation of HS code depends on destination country regulations and the exact composition or mixture being shipped. |
Chemical identification on our site prioritizes absolute correlation between production lot, shipping paperwork, SDS, and internal QC records. Our process engineers enforce naming consistency from raw material booking through finished stock release. Discrepancies in naming or classification present significant regulatory risk, especially at international borders. Operations managers coordinate with business units to address periodic HS code reclassifications initiated by customs authorities based on new compliance guidance or product re-purposing.
For every batch, traceability extends from documented receipt of upstream feedstocks through every purification and blending step to finished material disposition. Master records are revised immediately if there are regulatory changes in the IUPAC structure recognition or customs code attribution. Any variance between typical industry synonyms and local trade or regulatory designations is resolved during transport document preparation, not after shipment, to safeguard against seizures or customs delays.
1,4-Butanediol is supplied as a clear, colorless, viscous liquid in standard industrial practice. Minor color variation can occur depending on grade and trace impurity profile, but tightly managed purification minimizes this. Odor is typically faint and characteristic for glycols. Melting point and boiling point show dependency on purity and atmospheric pressure in the work area, so real production lots follow a narrow range confirmed by batch-specific analysis. Density varies slightly between grades, with the value confirmed during QC release for each shipment.
The material remains stable in neutral, dry conditions when exposure to air, light, and elevated temperatures is limited during bulk storage and handling. Contact with strong oxidizers and acids can initiate slow degradation or discoloration, especially outside of typical warehouse conditions. Batch traceability remains crucial due to the moderate hygroscopic nature of this compound, which influences stored product if moisture ingress is poorly controlled.
Water solubility is complete at typical temperatures across all grades; solubility in organic solvents (including alcohols, esters, and ketones) depends on grade purity, temperature, and solvent composition. For downstream blending, careful attention to temperature and agitation reduces the risk of local oversaturation or exothermic dissolution. Customers blending BDO for polyester or polyurethane synthesis benefit from source traceability on solution clarity and microbial bioburden.
Specification limits reflect intended use: polymer grade demands extremely low impurities, industrial grade tolerates slightly higher levels. Water, organic acids, and stabilizer residuals receive special focus in specification tables. Parameters such as refractive index, color (APHA), and heavy metal content are included, but the exact limits and test methods are aligned with grade and end-use. Routine batch releases only occur after internal QC confirms compliance to defined product grade specifications.
Profile monitoring includes focus on aldehydes, acetals, peroxides, and specific trace metals inherited from raw materials or process catalysts. Chloride content gains special attention where chlorinated routes or recycled raw materials are involved. By-product alcohols and cyclic ethers are typical impurities, reduced through distillation and purification steps. Precise impurity limits are grade-specific and reviewed periodically based on customer feedback and regulatory developments.
Key analytical methods include gas chromatography for purity and impurity profiling, Karl Fischer titration for water, UV/VIS for color, and ICP-MS or AAS for metal traces. These are standardized according to agreed protocols with accredited laboratories for batch release. Customers in pharmaceutical or electronic applications might request expanded certificate-of-analysis sections, referencing recognized international or national standards when relevant.
Feedstock selection rests heavily on reliability and purity. Common sources include acetylene, formaldehyde, and butadiene, each with their own performance and cost tradeoffs. Origin traceability is logged to support downstream regulatory and customer audits.
Several industrial routes exist, including acetylene-formaldehyde condensation (Reppe Process) or butadiene-based conversion (hydroformylation to butyraldehyde followed by hydrogenation). Choice of route depends on energy costs, intended purity, and regional raw material availability. Reaction conditions require pressurized reactors, carefully selected catalysts (copper, nickel, or mixed oxides), and rigorous moisture/contaminant control.
Critical control parameters include feedstock molar ratios, reaction temperature, pressure, and real-time monitoring of key impurity markers. Multi-stage distillation and vacuum stripping remove heavy by-products and light-end contaminants, backed by online analytical feedback. Recycled solvents or unreacted intermediates are kept under tight material balance closure to minimize waste and variation.
In-process controls track purity, color, water content, and catalyst carryover at strategic process points. Each batch requires successful QC test completion, comparison against historical data, and verification of traceability records before release. Off-spec material is segregated immediately and reviewed by the quality team for possible reprocessing or controlled downgrade on request.
As a bifunctional diol, BDO undergoes esterification, etherification, and polycondensation with both inorganic and organic partners. It provides a backbone for polyesters (eg. PBT, polyurethanes) and is frequently converted by dehydration or oxidation depending on downstream value stream priorities.
Most modifications operate under controlled temperature, catalyst presence, and low-oxygen conditions to suppress side reactions. Esterification benefits from suitable acid scavengers or molecular sieves, whilst hydrogenation tightens specifications on oxygen content and vapor phase control. Placement and type of catalyst vary with targeted transformation—companies often keep catalyst identity and loadings proprietary.
Key downstream products include tetrahydrofuran (THF), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), and N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP). Product grade and impurity levels set by BDO supply chain feed directly into manufacturing reliability and customer application yield.
BDO stores best between ambient and cool temperatures, dry conditions, and minimal exposure to sunlight. Nitrogen blanketing helps preserve color and purity for materials intended for sensitive polymer or electronic uses. Bulk storage tanks typically require regular bottom sampling and moisture check, as elevated humidity can alter material profile.
Mild steel and stainless steel tanks with compatible gaskets avoid leaching and incompatibility. For smaller volumes, high-density polyethylene drums or intermediate bulk containers offer excellent compatibility and minimize risk of polymerization or contamination.
Shelf life reflects product application, container material, and warehouse environment. Observed changes include color darkening, viscosity rise, and detectable off-odor—all signaling potential degradation. Internal guidelines define re-inspection period, especially for stock over six months or from reclaimed packaging.
BDO falls under GHS guidelines as a hazardous liquid, with labeling required for acute toxicity and potential health effects. Package labeling must include required labelling elements under local chemical regulations.
Handling protocols focus on avoiding inhalation, prolonged skin contact, and accidental ingestion. Customers are warned about irritation and CNS effects, emphasizing good ventilation and proper PPE at transfer points, especially in drum filling or bulk unloading.
Oral and dermal exposure pose recognized health risks; chronic and acute safety profiles are grade-specific. MSDS and safety instructions provide reference data for occupational exposure limits established by regulatory agencies, with additional caution for co-exposures or process intermediates.
Operational limits derive from national and regional occupational safety authorities. Process handling includes local exhaust at filling stations, emergency eye wash, and routine air monitoring. Staff receive regular training on chemical handling, spill response, and first aid. End users should always consult detailed SDS/EHS documentation as handling procedures depend on local law and plant-specific risk assessment.
Production output for 1,4-Butanediol responds directly to upstream feedstock logistics and operational run rates. Most facilities operate on a large-scale, continuous basis, configured around either the Reppe process or Davy process, both of which require secure long-term sourcing of acetylene, formaldehyde, or maleic anhydride. Bottlenecks arise from planned shutdowns, raw material disruptions, or changes in regulatory compliance for process emissions. Capacity utilization hinges on both plant reliability and local policy around hazardous chemical management.
Grade and purity requirements—such as technical, polymer, or pharmaceutical grade—define batch segregation and affect overall availability. Production for higher-purity grades typically entails additional purification stages, lower throughput per batch, and stricter release protocols, which inevitably narrows the supply margin for these segments.
Lead times are shaped by customer-specific requirements, particularly for customized grades or certified lots. Standard industrial orders ship from inventory or scheduled production within several business weeks, but made-to-order specifications see extension due to added in-process control, documentation work, or analytical certification. For bulk orders, MOQs reflect the batch production scale—partial-batch cut-off is impractical in continuous operations, so full-tanker or ISO-container volumes dominate MOQ policies.
Most direct-from-manufacturer supply formats fall into three categories: steel drums, IBC totes, and bulk tankers. Handling requirements for 1,4-BDO, due to its hydroscopicity and tendency to degrade in non-inert conditions, demand packaging in tightly sealed units with moisture barriers. Polymer and pharma grades receive additional protection, often under nitrogen blanketing or specialty linings, to limit contamination and byproduct formation during transit and storage.
Bulk logistics route selection relies heavily on regulatory permissions for hazardous cargo, especially for export from high-capacity APAC plants. Common trade terms include FOB or CIF from the nearest chemical port. Payment periods and document exchange vary: regular offtake agreements typically support net-30, but first-time and high-risk contracts lean on advance payment or irrevocable L/Cs. Documentation reflects both legal compliance and customer chain-of-custody requirements for sensitive end-uses.
Raw material procurement forms the largest portion of cost-of-goods for 1,4-BDO. Acetylene or maleic anhydride account for up to two-thirds of upstream cost allocation, with market shifts in natural gas, crude oil, or coal derivatives transmitting directly to finished price calculations. Variability grows during periods of supply-side shocks, including feedstock rationing, feedstock price volatility in regional hubs, and new trade policy interventions.
Grade requirements add complexity to the cost stack. Higher purity specifications, additional certification, and documented traceability introduce incremental utility and labor costs per ton, which show up as grade-based premiums. Packaging-configuration, value-added testing, and third-party audits further divide product bands and price points.
Base industrial grade offers the lowest price point, given reduced purification and minimal special certification. Shifts into polymer or electronic grades see step-changes in price due to more intensive downstream separation, closer trace-element control, and extended batch record audits. Specialty packaging—UN-certified drums, nitrogen-blanketed IBCs, pharmaceutical documentation—generates a clear structure of incremental mark-ups, reflecting true additional cost and labor.
Global capacity locates largely in East Asia and the US Gulf Coast, with China holding the majority share of merchant trade and deriving feed from a coal-based acetylene route. Consumption tracks high-volume polyurethane, PBT resin, and spandex fiber chains. Sudden downstream expansions trigger tightness and rapid price appreciation. Regional surpluses or new plant ramps lead to oversupply cycles and spot discounts.
2026 pricing for 1,4-BDO will mostly reflect the balance between new plant coming online in Asia and ongoing rationalization in legacy North American and European units. Feedstock cost direction—driven by oil/coal price cycles and energy policy intervention—acts as the primary external factor. As higher-grade demand in electronics, medical, and bioplastics applications grows, differential between technical and high-purity grades is expected to widen further.
Exporters with robust quality systems and demonstrated REACH or comparable certification will secure higher average realization. Trade friction, shipping costs, and certification bottlenecks may cause local spot premiums, especially during peak seasonal demand or force majeure events.
Sources: Regional industry reports, direct benchmarking with published futures, association data, and primary producer disclosures supplement internal operational analytics. Methodology focuses on cross-referencing actual contract settlements, reported capacity utilization, and policy trend analysis.
Regional capacity expansion announcements continue in both China and India, often fueled by government incentives and downstream project tie-ins. European operators respond with efficiency drives, emphasizing compliance and sustainability. Carbon footprint disclosures increasingly factor into large buyer RFPs.
Authorities in both the EU and US rolled out stricter reporting requirements for precursor chemicals and process emissions. REACH registration renewals and extended SVHC candidate lists drove up documentation requirements and slowed some cross-border deliveries. China issued new chemical standards aligning with GHS and occupational exposure management protocols, tightening quality release and shipment approval.
Production teams adjusted purification routes and documentation pipelines to maintain compliance and unrestricted shipment capabilities. In-process control points were expanded for trace residuals, and new packaging lines were installed to offer tamper-proof and moisture-barrier options for high-purity and export grades. Most manufacturers maintain flexible production scheduling to absorb feedstock interruptions and regulatory checks, supporting both short lead times and large-volume contract coverage where allowed by policy.
1,4-Butanediol serves as a fundamental intermediate for a range of chemical manufacturing sectors. Each segment draws on distinct physicochemical properties. Major application fields include:
Polymer manufacturing – Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resins, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), spandex fibers (PTMEG).
Solvent and cleaning agents – Formulations for specialty solvents, paint removers, industrial degreasers.
Pharmaceutical synthesis – Precursors for active and intermediate compounds.
Electronic chemicals – Solvents, photoresist stripping, specialty lithography formulations.
Other uses – Adhesives, elastic coatings, personal care intermediates.
| Product Grade | End-Use Applications | Key Performance Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Grade | Polyester polyols, plastics, solvent blending | Water, aldehyde content, color (Hazen), iron |
| High-Purity (Electronic) Grade | Semiconductor process, precision electronics | Trace metals, particles, organic contaminants |
| Pharmaceutical Grade | API intermediates, excipients | Residual solvents, microbiological, heavy metals |
| Reagent Grade / Lab Grade | Analytical, research | Purity profile, batch consistency |
The mapping above reflects our production and QC logic: industrial grade prioritizes throughput and broad property windows, high-purity rounds out trace-level impurity control through targeted purification, and pharmaceutical batches follow lot-specific compliance verification with multi-point quality checks.
Raw material selection and process tuning change by field. Polyester and plastics often tolerate specific grades of water or aldehyde contamination, focusing on color stability and predictable reactivity. Electronics and pharma routes operate on drastically narrower contaminant tolerances – here, process design features closed-loop purification and tool-endpoint monitoring. Reagent-grade applications stress consistency between lots, and batch release tightly correlates with analytical verification.
Map out the downstream process conditions, including polymer condensation, solvent blending, or pharmaceutical synthesis. Each sector sets different priorities for color, impurity profile, and trace element control.
Regulatory needs place strict control on several contaminants – heavy metals, residual solvent, or other specific banned substances. Pharmaceutical and electronic uses always require precise documentation and audit trails for each batch.
Align the grade against your final product’s sensitivity to trace water, aldehydes, and metals. Polymeric and solvent markets often absorb slight variations, but precision electronics and pharmaceuticals do not accept out-of-range impurity spikes.
Select based on annual requirement, internal formulation economics, and downstream yield. Large-volume users may select broader specifications for cost balance, but must factor in batch-to-batch process reproducibility.
Technical verification at the formulation or pilot scale confirms compatibility. QC release involves property verification, and support for customer-side method harmonization is often necessary before large-scale adoption.
Raw material quality and process route selection determine the initial impurity profile—our multi-stage purification targets problem contaminants at each phase. Key control points include moisture stripping, organic volatile removal, and targeted metal extractant polishing for high-purity routes. In-process indicators (e.g., color, pH, trace content) flag any off-batch events; consistency management relies on real-time data trending. Release decisions factor both in-house and customer-specific criteria.
Storage and material handling practices vary: higher grades require dedicated transfer lines and inerting, while industrial grades run under bulk handling protocols. Formulation impacts arise from grade-specific reactivity and stability, especially in high-value or regulated downstream formulations.
Every production batch of 1,4-Butanediol follows an internal quality management framework that aligns with recognized international and regional standards. Core operations run under formal quality system protocols. Certification coverage depends on plant location and customer profile, typically including widely accepted quality management systems. Periodic audits by external agencies and customer-side audits verify ongoing adherence. Quality system scope generally extends from raw material approval, reaction monitoring, and product isolation, through to final packing.
Requests for regulatory, application-specific, or sector-defined documentation often arise, particularly in pharma, electronics, and high-purity segments. Certification for certain grades—such as food-contact compliance, electronic grade, or pharmaceutical support documentation—depends on the customer’s regulatory or performance requirements and the process route used. Material declarations (such as heavy metal content, allergen status, or residual solvent levels) reflect test results from approved laboratories on representative production lots. Export-oriented shipments may include region-targeted documents as required by local authorities.
Typical quality documentation available with each batch includes certificate of analysis, manufacturing date, batch number linkage, and test method references. For technical and regulatory submissions, support extends to safety data sheets, stability reports, and process-specific inspection records. Composite samples are retained per standard archival policies, and additional analytical data—such as impurity profile, moisture content, or specific trace element measures—can be provided on request. Final release documentation reflects the grade, route, and customer-defined acceptance standards.
Manufacturing scheduling accounts for both long-term contractual partners and flexible spot purchase requests. Core production runs are planned based on confirmed demand forecasts and historic consumption patterns to limit risk of supply interruption. Buffer stock strategies, campaign planning, and modular capacity allocation support both volume stability and adaptation to urgent orders, seasonal surges, and project-based logistics. Dedicated account managers coordinate schedule adjustment for contract partners and trial-scale requests.
1,4-Butanediol output planning synchronizes upstream raw material reliability with downstream logistics integration. Actual available capacity depends on feedstock continuity, equipment maintenance intervals, and route-specific constraints, particularly for high-purity or special grade requirements. Production lots originate from continuous or batch reactors; grade separation—such as industrial, technical, or high purity—follows inline purification and quality gatekeeping. Routine process review identifies potential bottlenecks and risk sources for both product consistency and delivery timelines.
Sample requests for qualification—whether for new application development, formulation testing, or third-party certification—proceed via standard protocol. Sample lot, batch record, and analytical data are provided in conjunction with the customer’s technical information requirements. Packing, handling, and transport arrangements reflect the grade and intended test use, including support for statutory shipping requirements. Feedback from sample evaluation informs technical support for scaleup and commercial supply.
Business cooperation adapts to project needs through customized supply agreements, forecast-based scheduling, or ad hoc allocation for one-off requirements. Volume flexibility, split shipments, and destination-based logistics can be negotiated to match distribution complexity or local regulatory clearance. The production, quality, and supply chain teams align contract structure to secure ongoing product availability, reducing potential interruption from upstream raw material risk or logistics delay. Documentation, pricing, and technical support terms reflect risk profile, contractual duration, and the grade’s application context.
Direct hydrogenation of maleic anhydride and Reppe processes remain the leading routes in industrial production, driven by access to feedstocks and process sustainability. Plants selecting maleic anhydride routes typically prioritize regional supply chain security, while acetylene-based routes serve regions with abundant, cost-effective acetylene infrastructure. R&D teams are focusing on minimizing catalyst deactivation and improving selectivity to 1,4-BDO, targeting byproduct reduction and longer catalyst lifespan.
Manufacturers supplying copolyester (PBT) and polyurethane (PU) markets track application-specific purity demands—low aldehyde levels for PU to avoid downstream polymerization issues, and controlled water content to limit hydrolysis in polyesters. Advanced solvents, elastic fibers, and biodegradable plastics (PBS, PBAT) drive interest in even tighter control of trace impurities. Rapid growth in these segments challenges production facilities to enhance real-time monitoring and secondary purification steps.
Ongoing technical hurdles include balancing purification cost with the removal of structurally similar alcohols and esters. Breakthroughs have come from integrating membrane-based separations and continuous distillation, enabling flexible response to batch variations and evolving customer specifications. Operational strategies adapt to process-route-specific impurity profiles—acetylene-based plants observe typical higher levels of C3 and C5 alcohols, which require tailored control measures compared to maleic anhydride-based operations.
Polymer and solvent sectors project steady demand, coupled with mid-term volatility linked to policy shifts on green chemistry. New consumer markets for biodegradable plastics are outpacing traditional consumption rates, amplifying the need for grade-flexibility and rapid process adaptation. Plants that invest in modular purification and advanced analytics are more likely to meet shifting customer requirements and benefit from specialty-grade premiums.
Hydrogen sourcing and catalyst recycling stand as core focus areas, with internal R&D collaborating closely with both catalyst suppliers and downstream processors. Technological shifts in catalyst formulation and reactor design (high-efficiency packed beds, monolithic reactors) are shortening cycle times and cutting energy loads. Data integration from real-time analytics supports tighter control and earlier detection of upsets, which reduces off-spec batches and improves raw material cost efficiency.
Increased use of bio-derived succinic acid and green hydrogen aligns with downstream brand commitments to environmental benchmarks. Manufacturers investing in traceability and low-carbon process validation position themselves to supply higher-margin applications, particularly in regions with mandated carbon reporting. Process teams prioritize closed-loop water and solvent recovery, reporting solvent loss rates and waste minimization achievements in both internal performance analysis and customer-facing sustainability audits.
Application engineers address end-user challenges by correlating typical impurity patterns with downstream process compatibility. Facilities provide guidance on storage protocols and handling for different grades, highlighting the impact of moisture sensitivity and volatility on product stability over time. For example, grades intended for solvent applications require detailed temperature and humidity management plans, which technical support staff validate through site visits and scenario-based advice.
Production and QC teams work directly with customer engineers to map impurity profile to process performance, particularly in polymerization and resin-blending operations. Support includes streamlining filtration and additive selection to match product grade, identifying sources of blend instability or property drift, and recommending adjustment parameters based on real-world batch data. Tailored support programs often include pilot-scale trials and joint troubleshooting of in-plant quality excursions attributed to feedstock variability.
Consignment lots follow rigorous traceability and batch-release protocols, with final acceptance criteria referenced against both standard test methods and customer-defined tolerances. Response teams prioritize remediation of off-spec issues and support root-cause analysis for production incidents. Documentation packages include full QC data, route disclosure, transportation compatibility notes, and shelf-life recommendations based on grade and supply chain configuration. Long-term partnerships rely on transparent deviation management and proactive specification review as applications and regulatory standards evolve.
Decades of experience in organic synthesis and continuous process enhancement back our production of 1,4-Butanediol. Each batch originates from proprietary technology that integrates efficient hydrogenation and purification steps to control impurities and deliver a consistent chemical profile. Our facility manages feedstock intake, key reaction parameters, and downstream refining on-site, resulting in reliable composition and physical properties for every shipment.
Major polymer producers, solvent blenders, and specialty chemical manufacturers rely on bulk quantities of 1,4 BDO for a wide range of end uses. This intermediate serves as a building block in polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resins, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), and spandex fibers. Chemical synthesis teams apply it directly for tetrahydrofuran (THF) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) production. Each downstream sector requires raw materials with tightly controlled specifications to avoid downstream production failures or costly off-grade waste.
Quality management extends throughout our entire site. On-line instrumentation checks critical parameters, including moisture, color, and key trace residue content, before product release. We review all analytical results against strict internal benchmarks. Retained production samples and digital batch tracking support ongoing traceability and customer audits. Regular upgrades to our quality lab offer new capabilities for detection to meet rising compliance demands from industry.
Direct access to both bulk and packaged logistics allows us to meet needs across the supply chain. Our team fills road tankers for major manufacturers and ships drum lots for downstream blenders or time-sensitive projects. Packaging uses certified drums or ISO tanks, handled under closed conditions that prevent contamination and reduce handling risks. Our own logistics management shortens lead times and adapts to urgent order schedules, minimizing interruptions to production planning.
Customers request application guidance, troubleshooting, and detailed use recommendations that reflect real operating conditions. Our technical staff works directly with plant managers and R&D teams on integration strategies, efficiency improvements, and process troubleshooting. This support ranges from raw material compatibility checks to tailored advice for new product development using our BDO as a key intermediate.
Direct access to BDO from the manufacturing source cuts supply risks by eliminating indirect mark-ups and opaque lead chains. Distributors, procurement teams, and converters benefit from the ability to verify origin, specification, and handling directly at source. Full supply visibility, advanced notice of any issues, and responsive technical dialogue support long-term, transparent partnerships. We engage with buyers on project cost modeling and large-volume planning, optimizing industrial consumption and driving down total cost of operation.
As the direct producer of 1,4-Butanediol, we know that our customers expect a compound with dependable purity, controlled moisture levels, and reliable bulk handling characteristics. This feedback shapes every aspect of our work, starting from the selection of raw materials through to the final filling of each drum or bulk tank. There’s no substitute for on-site manufacturing controls if you want to meet demanding downstream applications in polyurethanes, plastics, and specialty chemicals.
Our production output targets high chemical purity, minimizing the presence of residual aldehydes, peroxides, and other trace byproducts. Purity isn’t just a figure on a certificate. We achieve documented high levels with continuous monitoring, high-precision analytical instruments, and integrated purification steps. These precautions directly impact our customers’ operational yields and finished product consistency. Actual purity requirements tend to hover above 99.5% by weight, and we maintain this as a benchmark, always pushing to limit minor contaminants so downstream users get a clean starting point for their synthesis or formulation.
Moisture is an ongoing challenge in glycol production and storage. 1,4-Butanediol readily absorbs water, and excess water content alters reactivity in polymerization, increases corrosion risk during handling, and impacts shelf life. Our process engineering team keeps water content typically below 0.1% by weight by introducing controlled drying steps and maintaining sealed transfer systems during both filling and transport. Reliable dryness provides real value to operations that rely on predictable BDO quality without complications from excess water.
Specific gravity is a straightforward but important metric, especially for customers who meter the product by volume or require accurate dosing in automated systems. 1,4-BDO’s typical specific gravity hovers around 1.015 to 1.017 at ambient temperature. Our batch records provide consistent documentation of this parameter, and our logistics protocols ensure tanks and containers are labeled and checked accordingly. On the manufacturing side, this metric also acts as a simple verification tool, flagging abnormality in a raw material load or final tank batch.
Repeated experience shows that deviations in purity or moisture content, even at fractions of a percent, introduce losses and complications in industrial processing. Years of incremental improvements, both in automation and human inspection, have given us the ability to control these values and support demanding syntheses at scale. For formulators and processors, steady quality means improved throughput, fewer off-spec batches, and better cost predictability. Our in-house technical support can provide further product property details, and we routinely collaborate to define customized quality figures suited to specialized operations.
We continue to invest in analytical infrastructure and closed-system handling to give reliability batch after batch. Every outgoing shipment, whether drum, ISO tank, or container, reflects not only verified analysis but also decades of accumulated operational know-how and attention to the practical matters faced by real-world industrial users.
Any discussion about sourcing 1,4-Butanediol rarely gets far before the topic of packaging and minimum order requirements comes up. As the direct manufacturer, we spend a good share of our time helping customers find the right fit for their needs—whether it is a large multinational producing spandex, or a smaller plant starting with a fresh polybutylene terephthalate line. Mistakes in packaging lead to headaches on the shop floor, bottlenecks in blending, and unnecessary costs during transfer or storage. That’s why we’ve tailored our packaging options based on real experience with logistics, storage safety, and the run-rates of our end users’ operations.
Our product moves in three main formats: 200 kg steel drums, 1,000 kg intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and full bulk ISO tanks. Over the years, we’ve handled just about every conceivable request. For those processing lower volumes or running pilot-scale batches, 200 kg drums provide simple handling, safe storage, and manageable stock rotation with minimal risk of contamination. The drum option also fits the needs of buyers who require regulatory paperwork matched to each discrete unit, as contents are tightly traceable.
For intermediates, coatings, or elastomer producers seeking to streamline their raw material flow, we supply 1,000 kg IBCs. These give a strong balance between efficient logistics and reduced frequency of replenishment. The reduced drum-handling cuts down on labor, reduces waste, and minimizes external contamination risks. Being able to move a full metric ton to the dispensation area at once proves efficient for contract manufacturers and plants using moderate batch sizes.
Bulk ISO tanks come into play for large-scale operations—facilities making solvents, polyurethanes, or advanced polymers in high volumes. These stainless-steel tanks (usually carrying around 20-24 metric tons) suit buyers with the infrastructure to offload and store liquid chemicals at scale. Besides transport efficiency, bulk tank supply often works out best where production needs run continuously, and downtime from raw material shortage is not an option.
We do not lock small- or mid-sized buyers out of the market by imposing excessive minimum order levels. Standard orders typically start at a single drum (200 kg), but for commercial pricing and direct-to-factory logistics, we encourage buyers to consider palletized quantities—usually eight or sixteen drums per pallet. IBCs move by the unit or in multiples fitting standard trucks or containers, depending on customer location and storage set-ups. Bulk ISO tank deliveries typically start at the full tank, ensuring product integrity, cost-effective freight, and compliance with transportation regulations.
Our production scheduling runs 24/7. This helps us support everything from samples up to full vessel loads. We place strong emphasis on transparency and reliability, keeping clients up to speed with real-time inventory, delivery lead times, and any key regulatory documentation tied to the shipment. Our technical team remains available to discuss best practices for handling, transfer, and bulk storage, helping partners maximize throughput and minimize incident risk.
We have years of hands-on experience working across the full scope of industries using 1,4-Butanediol. From that, we have learned that flexible, direct-from-factory packaging and clearly communicated minimums serve customers best. The goal is frictionless integration into downstream operations. We stand behind every shipment, large or small, from the drum line to the largest bulk contract. Flexibility, reliability, and a direct line to our technical and sales support enable us to respond quickly when requirements shift. For further details on how our 1,4-BDO packaging can be aligned to your specific process, our commercial team is available to engage directly, backed by the full technical resources of our production facility.
From production to delivery, the journey of 1,4-Butanediol demands close attention to shipping classifications. 1,4 BDO falls under UN 2810, which is classified as a toxic liquid, organic, n.o.s., with an IMDG hazard class 6.1. National and international transport is subject to ADR, IMDG, and IATA regulations. Our bulk shipments use approved, tested containers marked with all required hazard labels in line with the dangerous goods codes. The classification brings in specific packing group requirements as well, and we follow guidelines for Packing Group III substances, matching both physical and chemical properties.
Moving chemical intermediates like 1,4 BDO comes with significant documentation. We issue a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) with every shipment and include the appropriate transport classification and emergency response instructions. The consignor declaration clearly states the proper shipping name, UN number, hazard class, and packing group accompanied by our manufacturer's batch numbers for traceability. Commercial invoices are complete, specifying net and gross weights, packaging type, and country of origin as demanded by customs. Certificate of analysis, product specification sheets, and evidence of hazard communication accompany consignments entering regulated markets. Export shipments require additional documentation, such as export permits, where applicable. We also support our partners by generating multilingual documentation when requested, reducing customs hold-ups and inspection times.
Our experience with 1,4 BDO storage has shown that chemical stability depends on environment and vessel choice. We recommend storing 1,4 BDO in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers, such as drums lined or made of stainless steel or HDPE. The product should be kept in a dry warehouse, away from strong acids, bases, oxidizing agents, and moisture. Temperature control plays a role, since the material remains liquid at room temperature but solidifies below 20°C. To handle this, our operations team maintains heated storage facilities in cooler climates and uses jacketed transport tanks for bulk deliveries, keeping the product flowable. Preventing static discharge and including proper ventilation are integral to warehouse design, as outlined in our site safety audits and risk assessments.
Our training programs for warehouse and shipping staff stress the importance of using appropriate PPE—chemical goggles, gloves, and aprons—when handling either raw material or finished goods. Emergency protocols, including quick-response spill kits and eyewash stations, are present throughout our storage and distribution points.
Staying at the front line of chemical transport means keeping up with regulatory changes. Our team routinely updates compliance practices on the back of REACH, TSCA, and other jurisdictional regulations. Regular internal audits check every aspect: container labeling, SDS accuracy, vehicle compatibility, and driver certification according to ADR standards. For many of our large volume customers, we tailor safety seminars and storage assessments based on their own site setups, passing along manufacturing insights directly to their plant managers and EHS teams.
Safe transport and storage is not only a regulatory requirement—it is fundamental to safeguarding people, protecting property, and supporting ongoing business partnerships. Using the manufacturer’s expertise at every stage, we deliver 1,4-Butanediol with the transparency and reliability demanded in an increasingly regulated landscape.
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales3@ascent-petrochem.com, +8615365186327 or WhatsApp: +8615365186327
