1,3-Butanediol

1,3-Butanediol (CAS 107-88-0), also known as 1,3-Butylene glycol, is a short-chain diol.

Where is 1,3-Butanediol used?

• Personal care: humectant that conditions and retains moisture in skin creams, serums and hair products
• Polymer manufacturing: chain extender and cross-linking agent in polyurethane synthesis, influencing hardness and flexibility of the final elastomer
• Coatings and adhesives: improves film flexibility and substrate adhesion in solvent-borne and waterborne systems
• Specialty sealants and elastomers: plasticizer for controlled softness and elongation
• It also functions as a reactive intermediate.

Good to know: Often preferred over propylene glycol for its lighter skin feel and safety profile in topical applications. Cosmetic-grade material meets purity requirements for leave-on and rinse-off personal care formulations; technical-grade supply serves polymer and industrial coating applications where cosmetic-grade purity is not required.

Commercial specifications

• Drum and IBC quantities; bulk tanker options for high-volume buyers