The Medium-Volatility Ester Solvent Reshaping Coatings, Printing Inks, and Agrochemical Formulations: Sec-Butyl Acetate (CAS# 105-46-4)

Sec-Butyl acetate (CAS# 105-46-4), also known as 2-butyl acetate, 1-methylpropyl acetate, or butan-2-yl acetate, is an organic ester with the molecular formula C₆H₁₂O₂ and a molecular weight of 116.16 g/mol. Its molecular structure features a branched sec-butyl group attached to an acetate moiety, which distinguishes it from its three structural isomers—n-butyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, and tert-butyl acetate. This branched architecture imparts a unique combination of physical properties, most notably a lower boiling point (112.3°C) and a significantly faster evaporation rate than n-butyl acetate, making it a medium-volatility solvent with a distinct performance profile for industrial applications. The compound is a clear, colorless, flammable liquid characterized by a pleasant, fruity odor and is miscible with alcohol and ether, but only slightly soluble in water (0.8 g/100 mL at 20°C).

Sec-Butyl acetate is a strategically important ester solvent that serves as a drop-in replacement for toluene, xylene, and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) in a wide range of coating and ink formulations. Its balanced evaporation rate—approximately 80% faster than n-butyl acetate—provides optimal open time and tack development for adhesives, while its strong solvency power makes it a workhorse in nitrocellulose and acrylic lacquers. As regulatory pressure intensifies on hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and aromatic solvents, sec-butyl acetate has emerged as a cost-effective and environmentally preferable alternative, particularly in architectural coatings, flexographic and gravure printing inks, and agrochemical formulations. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important ester solvent.

Key Properties and Reactivity Profile

Sec-Butyl acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) is a medium-volatility ester solvent whose value derives from its branched molecular architecture and balanced evaporation profile.

Key physicochemical parameters include:

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol
• CAS Number: 105-46-4
• EINECS Number: 203-300-1
• MDL Number: MFCD00009328
• Synonyms: 2-Butyl acetate; 1-Methylpropyl acetate; Butan-2-yl acetate; Acetic acid sec-butyl ester
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Pleasant, fruity
• Boiling Point: 112.3°C
• Melting Point: −99°C
• Flash Point: 17°C (closed cup)
• Density: 0.866–0.878 g/cm³ at 20°C
• Refractive Index: 1.389
• Vapor Pressure: 1.33 kPa at 20°C
• Solubility: Miscible with alcohol and ether; slightly soluble in water (0.8 g/100 mL at 20°C)
• Log P (octanol/water): 1.51
• Explosive Limits: 1.7–9.8 vol% in air
• Storage: Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse at ≤37°C, away from fire and heat sources; keep container sealed; separate from oxidizers, acids, and bases
• GHS Classification: Danger; H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness)
• Transport Classification: UN 1123, Class 3, Packing Group II

The compound’s reactivity is defined by its ester functional group, which can undergo hydrolysis, transesterification, and reduction. The branched sec-butyl group provides steric hindrance that slows hydrolysis relative to linear esters, while the balanced volatility (faster than n-butyl acetate but slower than ethyl acetate) enables controlled drying and film formation in coating applications. The compound is chemically stable under recommended storage conditions but reacts with strong oxidants, strong acids, and strong bases to generate fire and explosion hazards.

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for sec-butyl acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) is concentrated in four primary sectors: coatings and paints (approximately 55–65% of global consumption), printing inks (approximately 20–25%), adhesives and sealants (approximately 5–10%), and agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other applications (approximately 5–10%). Its balanced volatility, strong solvency, and compatibility with nitrocellulose and acrylic resins serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth. The global market for sec-butyl acetate was estimated at approximately USD 400–500 million in 2025, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4–6% through 2030.

In coatings and paints, sec-butyl acetate is a key solvent for nitrocellulose lacquers, acrylic coatings, and polyurethane paints. The compound’s medium evaporation rate provides optimal flow and leveling, reducing the risk of coating defects such as orange peel and sagging. Its strong solvency for cellulose esters, acrylics, and alkyd resins makes it a versatile solvent in automotive coatings, industrial finishes, and architectural paints. In nitrocellulose-based lacquers, sec-butyl acetate can replace n-butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, and MIBK, offering formulators a cost-effective and lower-toxicity alternative. The compound is particularly valuable in high-solids coatings, where its balanced volatility ensures proper film formation while minimizing solvent retention.

In printing inks, sec-butyl acetate is widely used in flexographic and gravure inks for films and foils. Its faster evaporation rate (80% faster than n-butyl acetate) maximizes press speeds in high-speed printing operations. The compound also provides optimal open time and tack development for contact and pressure-sensitive adhesives, ensuring consistent print quality and adhesion. In ink formulations, sec-butyl acetate can replace toluene and xylene, supporting HAPs reduction initiatives and improving workplace safety.

In adhesives and sealants, sec-butyl acetate serves as a solvent for contact adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and laminating adhesives. Its balanced evaporation profile ensures proper tack development and open time, which are critical for bonding performance. The compound is also used as a coalescing solvent in industrial paint and as a component in industrial cleaning agents.

In agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, sec-butyl acetate is used as a solvent in pesticide formulations and as a reaction medium in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Its moderate volatility and good skin penetration make it suitable as a drug absorption enhancer, and it is used in the purification of penicillin. The compound also serves as a gasoline anti-knock agent and as a component in fragrance formulations, where its fruity aroma contributes to fruit-flavored essences.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for sec-butyl acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) features a pattern of “specialized ester manufacturers, integrated petrochemical producers, and Chinese producers serving distinct market segments.” The global market is characterized by a mix of large chemical corporations and regional producers, with Mainland China accounting for almost all of the nameplate capacity for this product as of 2021.

In the global high-purity and branded segment, key international suppliers include Eastman Chemical Company, Dow Chemical Company, BASF SE, INEOS, Celanese Corporation, and LyondellBasell Industries. These companies offer high-purity sec-butyl acetate for coatings, inks, and specialty applications, with comprehensive quality documentation and global distribution networks.

In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as the dominant force in global supply. XinChem is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-purity sec-butyl acetate from China, offering the compound with stringent quality standards for use in coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and agrochemical formulations. XinChem provides the compound with comprehensive quality documentation, batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (COA), customizable packaging, and globally compliant REACH, ISO 9001, and GMP-aligned manufacturing. The company emphasizes that sec-butyl acetate is a versatile ester solvent with a balanced evaporation rate and strong solvency power, suitable for a wide range of industrial applications including nitrocellulose and acrylic lacquers, printing inks, and adhesives. XinChem offers custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial tons. Other Chinese suppliers are concentrated in major chemical manufacturing regions including Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces, offering the compound at various purity grades (typically 99% to 99.9%) and packaging options—from 180 kg drums to 1,000 kg IBC containers. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at prices ranging from approximately RMB 3,280 per ton for 1-ton orders to RMB 2,265 per ton for 10-ton orders.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global sec-butyl acetate market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the coatings, inks, and agrochemical industries in these regions.

The Asia-Pacific region is the dominant force in the global sec-butyl acetate market, with China serving as the world’s manufacturing hub. Mainland China accounts for almost all of the nameplate capacity for sec-butyl acetate, and the compound is used mainly for coatings, pesticides, and gasoline blending in the region. The region’s competitive advantages include integrated acetic acid and sec-butanol supply chains, cost-effective production, and proximity to rapidly growing coatings and printing ink industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at competitive prices and in various packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing coatings, printing, and agrochemical sectors in China, India, and Southeast Asia continue to drive regional consumption growth.

North America remains a key market for high-purity sec-butyl acetate, driven by demand from the automotive coatings, industrial finishes, and flexible packaging industries. The United States hosts major coatings manufacturers and printing ink producers that require high-quality ester solvents for their operations. The region’s well-established regulatory framework, including EPA oversight of solvent emissions, supports demand for lower-toxicity alternatives to aromatic solvents.

Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements, including REACH registration and VOC emission limits, and a strong focus on sustainability in coatings and inks. European coatings manufacturers and printing ink producers demand high-purity sec-butyl acetate with comprehensive documentation. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are key markets in the region. The European market is at the forefront of the shift toward lower-toxicity solvents and HAPs reduction, driving demand for sec-butyl acetate as a replacement for toluene and xylene.

Japan represents a specialized market where sec-butyl acetate is supplied for high-precision coatings, electronics materials, and specialty inks. The region’s advanced manufacturing base supports demand for high-purity ester solvents.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a flammable ester solvent with industrial applications in coatings, inks, and agrochemicals, sec-butyl acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.

GHS classification and handling: Sec-butyl acetate is classified with the signal word ”Danger”. Hazard statements include H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness). The compound is classified as Flam. Liq. 2, Eye Irrit. 2, and STOT SE 3. Precautionary statements include P210 (Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources; no smoking), P233 (Keep container tightly closed), P240 (Ground and bond container and receiving equipment), P241 (Use explosion-proof electrical equipment), P242 (Use only non-sparking tools), P243 (Take action to prevent static discharges), P261 (Avoid breathing vapours), P264 (Wash skin thoroughly after handling), P271 (Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area), P280 (Wear protective gloves, eye protection, and face protection), P303+P361+P353 (IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing; rinse skin with water/shower), P304+P340 (IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing), P305+P351+P338 (IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing), P312 (Call a POISON CENTER or doctor if you feel unwell), P337+P313 (If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention), P370+P378 (In case of fire: Use dry sand, dry chemical, or alcohol-resistant foam to extinguish), P403+P235 (Store in a well-ventilated place; keep cool), P405 (Store locked up), and P501 (Dispose of contents/container to an approved waste disposal plant). The WGK Germany classification is 2 (moderate hazard to water). The compound is a highly flammable liquid and should be stored in a cool, ventilated warehouse at ≤37°C, away from fire and heat sources, and separated from oxidizers, acids, and bases.

Occupational exposure limits: The TLV is 50 ppm as TWA and 150 ppm as STEL. The EU-OEL is 241 mg/m³ (50 ppm) as TWA and 723 mg/m³ (150 ppm) as STEL. The vapour is mildly irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract, and exposure may cause effects on the central nervous system.

Regulatory compliance: In the European Union, sec-butyl acetate is registered under REACH (EINECS 203-300-1) and must comply with CLP classification requirements. In the United States, the compound is regulated under TSCA and is subject to OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requirements. The compound has an FDA UNII of UVH2QII6CG.

Transport information: Sec-butyl acetate is classified as a dangerous good for international transport under UN 1123, Hazard Class 3 (Flammable liquids), Packing Group II. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and IATA/ADR standards for flammable liquids.

Environmental considerations: Sec-butyl acetate is hydrolytically stable at neutral pH, with a hydrolysis half-life of 12.6 years at pH 7. The compound is not classified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB). However, it may be harmful to the aquatic environment and requires responsible handling and disposal.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for sec-butyl acetate is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. The global market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4–6% through 2030, driven by the ongoing shift toward lower-toxicity solvents and the expansion of coatings and printing ink industries in emerging economies.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Replacement of toluene, xylene, and MIBK: Regulatory pressure on hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and aromatic solvents drives demand for sec-butyl acetate as a safer alternative in coatings, inks, and adhesives. The compound’s balanced volatility and strong solvency power make it a drop-in replacement without compromising performance.
2. Expansion of the coatings and printing ink industries: The growing global demand for architectural coatings, automotive finishes, and flexible packaging drives consumption of sec-butyl acetate as a medium-volatility solvent. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is the fastest-growing market for these applications.
3. Growth in agrochemical formulations: The increasing use of sec-butyl acetate as a solvent in pesticide formulations and as a reaction medium in pharmaceutical manufacturing supports steady demand from the agrochemical and pharmaceutical sectors.
4. Shift toward sustainable solvents: The coatings and inks industries are increasingly prioritizing greener solvents to minimize environmental impact and enhance workplace safety. Sec-butyl acetate’s favorable toxicological profile and lower environmental persistence position it as a preferred alternative to aromatic solvents.
5. Cost-effectiveness: Sec-butyl acetate offers a cost-effective alternative to n-butyl acetate and other ester solvents, providing formulators with a balance of performance and economy. The compound’s competitive pricing, particularly from Chinese producers, supports its adoption in price-sensitive markets.

Challenges and considerations:

• Flammability and handling requirements: The compound’s classification as a highly flammable liquid (H225, UN 1123) requires specialized handling, packaging, and shipping procedures that may increase costs.
• Feedstock price volatility: Fluctuations in the prices of acetic acid and sec-butanol, the primary feedstocks for sec-butyl acetate production, may impact production costs. In Q2 2026, China’s sec-butyl acetate prices rose 4.2% to USD 1,365/MT due to an unplanned outage at a coal-based acetic acid facility.
• Competition from alternative solvents: The market faces competition from other ester solvents, including n-butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, and bio-based solvents.
• Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent VOC emission regulations may require ongoing investment in solvent recovery and emission control systems.

To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for coating, ink, and adhesive applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and ester solvents, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and agrochemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality Sec-Butyl Acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for coatings manufacturers, ink producers, and industrial formulators seeking this versatile medium-volatility ester solvent.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its sec-butyl acetate products. The production process incorporates advanced esterification technologies—including the reaction of acetic acid with sec-butanol in the presence of acid catalysts, and the direct esterification of acetic acid with butene using heteropolyacid catalysts—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥99% and ≥99.9% to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent product quality, minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in coating, ink, and adhesive formulations.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (GC), density (0.866–0.878 g/cm³), refractive index (1.389), boiling point (112.3°C), and impurity profiles. XinChem offers batch-specific COA, customizable packaging, and globally compliant REACH, ISO 9001, and GMP-aligned manufacturing.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers sec-butyl acetate with purity ≥99% (GC) and ≥99.9% (GC) available, ensuring optimal performance in coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and agrochemical formulations. The product’s high purity minimizes the risk of unwanted side reactions and coating defects, making it suitable for demanding applications in automotive coatings, flexible packaging inks, and industrial adhesives. The compound is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant, fruity odor, consistent appearance, and defined physicochemical properties.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol
• CAS Number: 105-46-4
• EINECS Number: 203-300-1
• Synonyms: 2-Butyl acetate; 1-Methylpropyl acetate; Butan-2-yl acetate; Acetic acid sec-butyl ester
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Pleasant, fruity
• Purity: ≥99% (GC) / ≥99.9% (GC) available
• Boiling Point: 112.3°C
• Melting Point: −99°C
• Flash Point: 17°C (closed cup)
• Density: 0.866–0.878 g/cm³ at 20°C
• Refractive Index: 1.389
• Solubility: Miscible with alcohol and ether; slightly soluble in water (0.8 g/100 mL at 20°C)
• Storage: Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse at ≤37°C, away from fire and heat sources
• GHS Classification: Danger; H225, H319, H336
• Transport Classification: UN 1123, Class 3, Packing Group II

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities to industrial-scale 180 kg drums, 1,000 kg IBC containers, and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation with appropriate protection from moisture and ignition sources.

3. Application Fields

As a versatile medium-volatility ester solvent, Sec-Butyl Acetate (CAS# 105-46-4) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Coatings and Paints:

• Key solvent for nitrocellulose lacquers, acrylic coatings, and polyurethane paints
• Provides optimal flow and leveling, reducing coating defects
• Replaces n-butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, toluene, and MIBK
• Used in automotive coatings, industrial finishes, and architectural paints
• Coalescing solvent in high-solids coatings and industrial paint

Printing Inks:

• Solvent for flexographic and gravure inks for films and foils
• 80% faster evaporation than n-butyl acetate for high-speed printing
• Replaces toluene and xylene, supporting HAPs reduction
• Provides optimal open time and tack development for adhesives

Adhesives and Sealants:

• Solvent for contact adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and laminating adhesives
• Balanced evaporation profile for proper tack development
• Component in industrial cleaning agents and metal cleaners

Agrochemicals and Pharmaceuticals:

• Solvent in pesticide formulations
• Reaction medium in pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Drug absorption enhancer with good skin penetration
• Used in penicillin purification

Other Applications:

• Gasoline anti-knock agent
• Fruit-flavored essence and fragrance formulations
• Reaction medium for chiral synthesis

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of solvent blends, guidance on evaporation rate adjustment, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial tons are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations (UN 1123, Class 3, PG II), customs clearance, and documentation, with appropriate protection from moisture and ignition sources for product stability.

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, TSCA, OSHA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in ester solvent synthesis and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, high purity (≥99% to ≥99.9%), and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including custom synthesis and packaging.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation including batch-specific COA.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

Email: sales1@xinchem.com

WhatsApp: +86 18049800532