Difference between butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde

In the chemical industry, butyraldehyde (succinaldehyde) and isobutyraldehyde (isobutyraldehyde) are two common aldehydes, which have significant differences in structure, physical properties and chemical reaction characteristics. Understanding their differences helps to correctly select and use these two important chemicals in production and application.

1. basic structure and composition

1. Structure of butyraldehyde Butyraldehyde is derived from the dehydrogenation of butane (C? H? 0). The molecular formula is C? H? O. It has four carbon atoms, two of which form an aldehyde group (-CHO). Its structure can be expressed as CH₂ = CH-CH-CHO. Butyraldehyde is a linear aldehyde compound with certain flammability.

2. Structure of isobutyraldehyde Isobutyraldehyde is derived from the dehydrogenation of isobutane (C, H, the structure is CH-CH(CH)), and the molecular formula is C, H, O. Its structure is CH₂ = CH-C(CH), which is an aldehyde compound with three methyl branches and a highly symmetrical structure.

Although butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde have the same molecular formula, their structures are different, resulting in differences in many properties.

2. physical property differences

1. Boiling Point Butyraldehyde has a boiling point of 163°C, while isobutyraldehyde has a boiling point of 139°C. The difference in boiling points is mainly due to the difference in intermolecular forces. Isobutyraldehyde has a symmetrical molecular structure and weak intermolecular hydrogen bonding ability, so its boiling point is lower than that of butyraldehyde.

2. Density The density of butyraldehyde is 1.21g/cm³, while that of isobutyraldehyde is 1.10g/cm³. The density of isobutyraldehyde is lower, which is related to the larger methyl branches in its molecular structure.

3. Color Both are colorless and transparent liquids, but in practical applications, the color of butyraldehyde may change slightly due to impurities or different storage conditions.

3. chemical differences

1. Solubility Butyraldehyde is sparingly soluble in water and readily soluble in organic solvents. The solubility of isobutyraldehyde is similar to that of butyraldehyde, but shows better solubility in some specific solvents.

2. reactivity There are differences in the activity of butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde in chemical reactions. The aldehyde group of butyraldehyde reacts easily with reducing agents, while the structure of isobutyraldehyde makes it more active in certain reactions, such as in polymerization.

3. chemical reaction characteristics Butyraldehyde is easily decomposed under acidic conditions, while isobutyraldehyde is slightly more stable. The decomposition products of butyraldehyde include butadiene and carbon dioxide, while isobutyraldehyde has less decomposition products and higher stability.

4. functional uses are different

1. Materials Science Butyraldehyde is commonly used in the manufacture of plastics, rubber and other resins, but in some special materials, the use of isobutyraldehyde is more common, which is related to its better processing performance.

2. Pesticide industry Butyraldehyde has been widely used in pesticide production, but it has been restricted due to its high toxicity. Isobutyraldehyde is still used in pesticide formulations because of its non-toxicity.

3. Plastic Manufacturing Because of its good processing performance and stability, isobutyraldehyde is often used as plastic additives, but the role of butyraldehyde in this field is relatively limited.

5. selection field considerations

In industrial applications, the following factors should be considered when selecting butyraldehyde or isobutyraldehyde:

1. Storage conditions Butyraldehyde needs to be stored in a cool, well-ventilated environment to prevent decomposition. Isobutyraldehyde has good stability and is suitable for long-term storage.

2. Use occasion Butyraldehyde is suitable for use where higher temperatures and pressures are required, while isobutyraldehyde is more stable at high temperatures.

3. Environmental requirements Isobutyraldehyde is preferred in modern industrial production because of its low toxicity and strict environmental protection standards.

6. summary

Butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde have significant differences in structure, physical properties and chemical reaction characteristics, which directly affect their applications in different fields. To select the appropriate aldehyde compounds, it is necessary to consider the molecular structure, boiling point, density, solubility and application scenarios. By understanding these differences, chemical workers can apply butyraldehyde and isobutyraldehyde more efficiently and contribute to industrial production and scientific research.