Butyl glycolate

Butyl glycolate (CAS 7397-62-8) is an ester-based solvent derived from glycolic acid and n-butanol, commercially known under the trade name Polysolvan O. It carries no assigned E-code and is also referenced as butyl glycollate or butyl hydroxyacetate in technical and regulatory documentation.

In coatings and printing inks, butyl glycolate functions as a coalescing solvent and surface modifier, improving substrate wetting and film formation by reducing interfacial tension between the resin and the substrate. In adhesive and sealant formulations, it acts as a carrier solvent that controls viscosity and open time during application.

Butyl glycolate is supplied as a colorless to light yellow liquid and falls under REACH registration requirements for European market supply. It is available in standard industrial drum and IBC packaging formats. Buyers should confirm grade specifications and SDS documentation with the supplier prior to procurement.