The two isomeric butanals,
n
‐ and isobutyraldehyde, C
4
H
8
O, are produced commercially almost exclusively by the Oxo reaction of propylene. They also occur naturally in trace amounts in tea leaves, certain oils, coffee aroma, and tobacco smoke. The butanals are highly flammable, colorless liquids of pungent odor. These aldehydes are miscible with most organic solvents, eg, acetone, ether, ethanol, and toluene, but are only slightly soluble in water. The reactions of
n
‐ and isobutyraldehyde are characteristic aldehyde reactions of oxidation, reduction, and condensation. The majority of the butyraldehyde produced in the United States is converted into 1‐butanol and 2‐ethylhexanol (2‐EH). The remaining
n
‐butyraldehyde production of the United States goes into (in decreasing order): poly(vinyl butyral), 2‐ethylhexanal, trimethylolpropane, methyl amyl ketone, and butyric acid. A large portion of the total U.S. consumption of isobutyraldehyde goes into the production of isobutyl alcohol and isobutyraldehyde condensation and esterification products. The other principal isobutyraldehyde derivative markets are neopentyl glycol, isobutyl acetate, isobutyric acid, isobutylidene diurea, and methyl isoamyl ketone. The merchant market for the two aldehydes is relatively insignificant, most of the production being employed captively. The most active
n
‐butyraldehyde derivatives were expected to be PVB, as more regions require automotive safety glass, and trimethylolpropane. Although tests have shown that
n
‐butyraldehyde causes some adverse physiological effects, there is no danger to health in normal plant practice. Both aldehydes have a pungent, penetrating odor. Their vapors as well as the neat liquids can cause skin, eye, and respiratory organ irritation. Stainless steel, baked phenolic‐lined steel, or aluminum are often used for storage and handling of
n
‐ and isobutyraldehyde. Storage of the aldehydes under nitrogen preserves the integrity of the material.