What Does
Isobutyl Isobutyrate (IBIB) Mean?
Isobutyl isobutyrate (IBIB) is a simple ester composed from isobutanol and isobutyric acid. Its chemical formula is C8H16O2 with a chemical structure of (CH3)2CHCO2CH2CH(CH3)2.
Like many simple esters, IBIB is most well known for its fruity aroma. It is produced naturally in plants such as bananas, melons, apricots, strawberries, olives, myrtle berries and hops.
In industry, IBIB is commonly used for insecticide manufacturing, as a retarder solvent for painting applications, and as a flavoring agent.
Corrosionpedia Explains Isobutyl Isobutyrate (IBIB)
At room temperature and pressure, isobutyl isobutyrate is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor, reminiscent of the taste of pineapple. It has the following basic properties:
- Molecular mass: 144.21 g/mol
- Density (at 0°C): 0.875 g/cm3
- Melting point: -80.7°C (-113.3°F)
- Boiling point 148.6°C (299.7°F)
- Vapor pressure (at 25°C): 4.3 mm Hg
IBIB is insoluble with water and mixes well with other organic liquids. It is safe for consumption when used as a flavoring agent or fragrance, but is moderately toxic when consumed in large amounts.
In the paints and coatings industry, IBIB is used as a retarder solvent, meaning its purpose is to slow the drying process. IBIB slows drying because its evaporation rate is lower than typical solvents. This property is due to its low volatility, which is related to having a higher molecular weight than most organic liquids. IBIB is used as a solvent for nitrocellulose lacquers and plastic resins.
Other properties of IBIB makes it a good candidate for painting applications. Its low water solubility make it a good retarder solvent for moisture-sensitive coatings. IBIB has low surface tension, which aids in creating a high quality application when using high-surface tension coatings. Also, its high electrical resistivity helps adjust the resistivity during a coating application.