What is butyraldehyde?

Butyraldehyde, also known as butanal, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C4H8O. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent odor. Butyraldehyde is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food products, as well as a precursor for the production of various chemicals such as butanol, butyric acid, and butyl alcohols.

Butyraldehyde is primarily produced through the hydroformylation of propylene, using a catalyst such as cobalt or rhodium. It can also be produced by the oxidation of butane or the dehydrogenation of butanol.

Butyraldehyde is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is a skin and eye irritant, and exposure to high concentrations can cause respiratory irritation and central nervous system depression. Proper safety precautions should be taken when handling butyraldehyde.