Sub-Product

1,2-Butadiene is an organic compound with the molecular formula C₄H₆, and it is one of the isomers of butadiene. It is a cumulated diene, meaning it has two adjacent double bonds, making it part of the allene family. Its structure is CH₂=C=CH−CH₃, and it is also known as methylallene.

It is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature and atmospheric pressure that can be easily liquefied under pressure and it has a characteristic odor.

1,2-Butadiene is a minor byproduct in the cracking of hydrocarbons to produce other C₄ compounds like 1,3-butadiene and butenes. It typically constitutes less than 1% of the C₄ fraction obtained during this process and can be partially purified through extraction methods such as using N-methylpyrrolidone.

Although it has limited industrial applications compared to 1,3-butadiene, 1,2-butadiene is used in:

• Specialty gas mixtures.
• Organic synthesis for research purposes.
• Instrument calibration.

The toxicity of 1,2-butadiene has not been thoroughly investigated, but it likely acts as a simple asphyxiant and may have anesthetic properties. Due to its flammability and potential health risks, it must be handled with care under controlled conditions. Stabilizers like tert-butylcatechol (TBC) are often added to prevent unwanted reactions during storage or transport. This compound's unique cumulated diene structure makes it chemically distinct from other butadiene isomers, though its lack of extensive industrial use limits its broader significance.

A.I. generated description.