Butyl levulinate
What is Butyl levulinate?
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.
Where is Butyl levulinate used?
- Plastics and polymer formulations: plasticizer and softener that improves flexibility and processability in PVC and biopolymer compounds
- Coatings, inks and adhesives: solvent and carrier with moderate evaporation rate and good solvency
- Food and beverage: flavoring agent under FEMA 2207 contributing fruity, caramel-like notes to confectionery, baked goods and beverages
- Lubricant and metalworking formulators incorporate it as a bio-based carrier fluid or diluent in specialty blends.
Good to know: Food-grade material meets FEMA specifications; technical-grade product serves industrial solvent and plasticizer applications.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 98% and upward
- Certificate of analysis documentation standard across both grades
- Clear liquid in standard drum and IBC quantities, with bulk tanker options
Other Names (Synonyms)
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