Butylene carbonate

Butylene carbonate (CAS 4437-85-8, EC 689-391-3) is a cyclic organic carbonate ester, also known commercially as Jeffsol BC and 1,2-butylene carbonate. It carries no E-code designation and is not classified as a food additive. It belongs to the cyclic carbonate solvent family alongside propylene and ethylene carbonate.

In electronics manufacturing, butylene carbonate functions as a high-boiling polar aprotic solvent for electrolyte formulations in lithium-ion batteries, where its low volatility supports stable ionic conductivity. In industrial cleaning and plastics processing, it solubilises resins and polymer coatings through dipole-dipole interactions, reducing the need for halogenated solvents.

Butylene carbonate is supplied as a technical-grade liquid and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU import and use. Standard packaging includes drums and IBC containers. Buyers should request a current Safety Data Sheet and confirm supplier REACH compliance documentation before procurement.