2,3-Epoxy-2-methylbutane

Chemical Properties

clear colorless liquid

Physical properties

2-methyl-2-butene oxide, 2,3-epoxy-2-methylbutane, C₅H₁0O, M_r 86.14, is a clear, colorless liquid with a stringent, ether-like odor; color (Hazen scale) 5; bp 73℃ (101.3 kPa); mp -83℃; flash point (Seta flash) < 15℃; n²⁰_D 1.3860; 8 % soluble in water (unstable) and soluble in polar organic solvents .

Uses

Isoamylene oxide is used commercially for stabilizing the chlorinated hydrocarbons 1,1,1- trichloroethane and trichloroethylene. These hydrocarbons are frequently used in metal cleaning (including light metal alloys) and must, therefore, be stabilized against decomposition and formation of acidic substances during storage and application. The basic stabilizer system consists of either an organic amine or a nitro compound and a low-molecular mass epoxide, to which additional components may be added.

Preparation

2,3-Epoxy-2-methylbutane can be prepared by various methods, e.g., via the chlorohydrin route, with percarboxylic acid, or with hydrogen peroxide in a catalyzed reaction.