Trans-2-butene | Metro Welding Supply Corp.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT

Trans-2-butene gas, also known as 2-Butene (E)-isomer, is a colorless, flammable hydrocarbon gas with a sweet, faintly fruity odor. It is an essential component in various industrial processes due to its versatility and unique chemical properties. Trans-2-butene is a key monomer in the manufacturing of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It also serves as a valuable starting material in the production of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, solvents, and plasticizers. Additionally, Trans-2-butene gas is used as a precursor in the synthesis of flavors and fragrances, adding unique olfactory characteristics to a wide range of consumer products.

10 KEY CHARACTERISTICS

1. Chemical Structure: Trans-2-butene, also known as (E)-2-butene, is an isomer of butene. It has a linear, four-carbon structure with a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms.
2. Isomerism: Trans-2-butene is one of two isomers of butene, the other being cis-2-butene. The trans-isomer has a trans arrangement of substituents around the double bond, leading to different chemical properties.
3. Physical State: At standard temperature and pressure (STP), Trans-2-butene is a colorless, flammable gas with a faintly sweet, fruity odor.
4. Boiling Point: Trans-2-butene has a boiling point of approximately -6.3°C 313-450-9300°F), which makes it a gas at room temperature.
5. Flammability: It is highly flammable and should be handled with care, following proper safety protocols for flammable gases.
6. Reactivity: Trans-2-butene is reactive due to the presence of the double bond. It can undergo various chemical reactions, including addition reactions and polymerization.
7. Polymerization: It is a crucial monomer in the production of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), contributing to the plastic's desirable properties like toughness and chemical resistance.
8. Solubility: Trans-2-butene is sparingly soluble in water, but it can dissolve in organic solvents.
9. Industrial Applications: It is used in various industries, including petrochemicals, plastics, flavors, and fragrances. It serves as a starting material for the synthesis of numerous chemicals.
10. Odor Threshold: Trans-2-butene has a low odor threshold, meaning it can be detected by smell at relatively low concentrations, even in the presence of other gases.

10 COMMON USES

1. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Production: Trans-2-butene serves as a key monomer in the production of high-density polyethylene, a widely used plastic known for its toughness, chemical resistance, and suitability for various applications including packaging, pipes, and containers.
2. Flavor and Fragrance Synthesis: It is employed as a precursor in the synthesis of flavors and fragrances, imparting unique olfactory characteristics to a wide range of consumer products like perfumes, food, and beverages.
3. Chemical Intermediates: Trans-2-butene is used as a starting material in the production of various chemicals including pharmaceuticals, solvents, plasticizers, and other specialty chemicals.
4. Catalyst in Chemical Reactions: It can act as a catalyst or a reactant in chemical reactions, facilitating the formation of more complex molecules in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals.
5. Gas Chromatography: In analytical chemistry, Trans-2-butene can be used as a calibration standard in gas chromatography, aiding in the separation and identification of different chemical compounds.
6. Research and Development: It finds applications in research labs for experimental purposes, such as studying reaction kinetics, exploring new synthetic pathways, and investigating the behavior of chemical compounds.
7. Refrigerant and Heat Transfer Fluids: In some specialized applications, Trans-2-butene may be utilized as a component in refrigerant and heat transfer fluid formulations, though it is not as common as other compounds like ethylene or propylene.
8. Fuel Additives: Trans-2-butene may be used as a component in fuel additives, where it can improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions in certain engine types.
9. Plastic Additives and Modifiers: It can be used as a component in plastic additives and modifiers to enhance specific properties, such as impact resistance, flexibility, and chemical resistance.
10. Laboratory Applications: Trans-2-butene may find applications in laboratories for experiments, calibrations, and research involving chemical reactions and polymerization processes.