Butyl levulinate
Description
Butyl levulinate (CAS 2052-15-5), also known by its FEMA 2207 designation, is a levulinic acid ester used commercially as a plasticizer, solvent, and flavoring agent.
Derived from renewable feedstocks, it bridges bio-based chemistry with industrial performance across multiple end-use sectors. In plastics and polymer formulations, it functions as a plasticizer and softener.
It improves flexibility and processability in PVC and biopolymer compounds. As a solvent and carrier, it supports coating, ink, and adhesive formulations where moderate evaporation rate and good solvency are required.
Food and beverage manufacturers use it as a flavoring agent under FEMA 2207, where it contributes fruity, caramel-like notes to confectionery, baked goods, and beverages.
Lubricant and metalworking formulators also incorporate it as a bio-based carrier fluid or diluent in specialty blends targeting sustainability requirements for modern industrial applications.
Butyl levulinate is supplied as a clear liquid in standard drum and IBC quantities, with bulk tanker options available for larger procurement volumes across global supply chains.
Food-grade material is available meeting FEMA specifications, while technical-grade product serves industrial solvent and plasticizer applications with high efficiency and reliability.
Purity levels typically range from 98% upward, with certificate of analysis documentation standard across both grades to ensure compliance with rigorous internal quality control protocols.
Physical Properties
| Boiling Point | 248 °C @ Press: 750 Torr |
| Density | 0.974 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C; Press: 750 Torr |
| Flash Point | 197 °F |
| Appearance | CLEAR YELLOW TO ORANGE-BROWN LIQUID |
| Color | Colorless to Almost colorless |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. fruity herbal waxy caramel savory |
| Form | clear liquid |
| Water Solubility | Slightly soluble in water. |
| Vapor Pressure | 5Pa at 25℃ |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.427(lit.) |
| Log P | 1.435 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29183000 |
| Storage Class | 10 - Combustible liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Documentation
Other Names
Butyl 4-oxopentanoate|Pentanoic acid, 4-oxo-, butyl ester|n-Butyl levulinate|Butyl laevulinate|n-Butyl laevulinate|LEVULINIC ACID, BUTYL ESTER|Butyl 4-ketovalerate|Butyl acetylpropionate
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