Commercial 1,2-, 1,3-, 1,4-, and 2,3-butanediols are clear,
viscous liquids that are miscible with water and alcohol. They
all have a molecular weight of 90.12.
Butanediols are not used extensively commercially, but
there is considerable interest in them as intermediates for
polyester resins. Because of its low toxicity, the 1,3-isomer,
has been proposed for cosmetic and pharmaceutical
applications.
1,2-Butanediol is a relatively new product that is produced
commercially by hydrating the corresponding 1,2-butylene
oxide in a manner similar to that described for other simple
glycols .
According to Curme and Johnston , 1,3-butanediol
is prepared commercially by the catalytic reduction of
acetaldol but may be produced by other routes as well. 1,4-
Butanediol is produced in Germany by hydrogenating 2-
butyne-1,4-diol, but other methods can also be used. 2,3-Butanediol
is produced by fermentation, and the distribution of
optical isomers depends on the species of bacteria used.
