How Is Butyraldehyde Formed?

Butyraldehyde can be produced by the catalytic dehydrogenation of n-butanol. At one time, it was produced industrially by the catalytic hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde, which is derived from acetaldehyde. Upon prolonged exposure to air, butyraldehyde oxidizes to form butyric acid.

Where is butanal found?

Outside of the human body, Butanal is found, on average, in the highest concentration within cow milk and carrots. Butanal has also been detected, but not quantified in several different foods, such as hard wheats, borages, ostrich ferns, skunk currants, and fennels.

Where is butyraldehyde used?

Butyraldehye is used mainly as an intermediate in the production of synthetic resins, rubber vulcanization accelerators, solvents, and plasticizers. It is also an intermediate for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, crop protection products, pesticides, antioxidants, tanning auxiliaries, and perfumes.