1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Heavy Alcohols (Fusel Oil) is an oily liquid with a pungent, unpleasant odor, obtained as a by-product from the alcoholic fermentation of molasses and grains. This mixture consists mainly of amyl alcohols (isoamyl, n-amyl), isobutanol, and propanol. The substance is used as a low-cost industrial solvent, a raw material for producing acetate solvents (like isoamyl acetate), and a defoaming agent in the mining and petrochemical industries.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Standard Solvent Grade | Refined High Purity Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Heavy Alcohols | ≥ 99.0 | ≥ 99.5 | % |
| Isoamyl Alcohol (3-Methyl-1-butanol) | 50 – 70 | 60 – 80 | % |
| Water | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.2 | % |
| Density (20°C) | 0.810 – 0.820 | 0.810 – 0.820 | g/cm³ |
| Distillation Range | 105 – 132 | 110 – 132 | °C |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 30 | ≤ 15 | Pt-Co |
| Flash Point | ≈ 43 | ≈ 43 | °C |
3. Features & Benefits
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Selective Solvency Power: Excellent dissolution of resins, oils, and greases, similar to butyl glycol but at a much lower price point.
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Precursor for High-Value Acetates: The isoamyl acetate produced from this product is a key solvent in the printing and cellulosic coating industries.
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Effective Defoamer: Delivers excellent performance as an antifoam in fermentation, mineral processing, and drilling operations.
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Renewable Source: A by-product of biotechnology processes, consistent with the principles of green chemistry.
4. Industrial Applications
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Solvent Production: A raw material for the synthesis of amyl acetate, isoamyl lactate, and other ester solvents.
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Defoamers: Formulation of industrial antifoams in mineral processing (flotation).
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Paint & Resin Industry: A thinner in some slow-drying solvent-based formulations.
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Extraction & Chemical Synthesis: An extraction carrier in pharmaceuticals and fine chemical synthesis.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This material is flammable (Flash Point ~43°C) and an irritant. Its vapors are toxic and narcotic at high concentrations. The Arnico MSDS file must be obtained.
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Storage Conditions: Store in carbon steel or 316 stainless steel tanks, sealed, in a cool, ventilated environment, away from sparks.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The use of Viton gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator with an A-type filter is required.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico Heavy Alcohol shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing the distillation curve and the percentage composition of the alcohols.
