Arcosolv PNB - (Mono) Propylene Glycol Normal Butyl Ether - is a colorless combustible liquid with an ether-like odor. It has low water solubility and good coupling and demonstrates good solvency for coating resins. The properties of Arcosolv PNB support its use in agricultural, coating, cleaning, ink, textile and adhesive products. It is a good substitute for ethylene glycol ethers including ethylene glycol butyl ether (EB).
Benefits and Applications
Coatings: Arcosolv PNB can be used as a coalescent with various resins including acrylics, styrene-acrylics, and polyvinylacetates. It has superior film forming characteristics.
Cleaners: Arcosolv PNB has a moderate odor, good coupling ability, and good surface tension lowering in water-based cleaners. It is compatible with a wide range of cleaning components. Arcosolv PNB is also partially water soluble and the water solubility can be increased by adding low molecular weight alcohols or other propylene glycol ethers.
Other Applications: The properties listed in the previous section also support the use of Arcosolv PNB in agriculture, cosmetics, electronics, ink, textile and adhesive products. Specific end uses may require approval by appropriate regulatory agencies.
Toxicology/Regulatory
Arcosolv PNB has a low degree of toxicity following acute oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure. It is moderately irritating to eyes and may cause skin irritation. While not particularly hazardous, repeated exposures to high levels of Arcosolv PNB have been reported to cause liver injury in experimental animals. Arcosolv PNB did not cause developmental toxicity in experimental animals and is not considered teratogenic.
Regulatory Status:
Please refer to the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for additional information.
Arcosolv PNB, like all other propylene glycol ethers, is not included under the category glycol ethers as defined under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. It is not subject to the reporting requirements of CERCLA or the reporting requirements established by SARA Title 111, section 313 and 40CFR372.
The major isomer of Arcosolv PNB is listed on the following: U.S. TSCA, EEC EINECS, Canadian DSL, Australian, Japanese and Korean Chemical inventories. The minor isomer is not listed but is exempt as an impurity. Based upon the information currently available this product is not known to contain any chemicals currently listed as carcinogens or reproductive toxins under California Proposition 65 at levels which would be subject to the proposition.
Storage and Handling
General industry practice is to store Arcosolv ethers in carbon steel vessels. Avoid contact with air when storing for long periods of time. Glycol ethers should never be stored or handled in copper or copper alloys. This product may absorb water if exposed to air.
Store only in tightly closed, properly vented containers away from heat, sparks, open flame or strong oxidizing agents. Use only non-sparking tools. Ground containers before transfer. Electrical equipment should conform to national electric code.
Unnecessary exposure or spillage should be strictly avoided as a matter of good practice. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet for Arcosolv PNB for more specific information.
Arcosolv is a trademark owned or used by LyondellBasell group companies. Trademark Arcosolv is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.