Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (PNB): A Complete Guide for Coatings, Inks, and Industrial Cleaning

Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (PNB) is a high-purity, slow-evaporating glycol ether solvent widely used in coatings, printing inks, and industrial cleaning formulations. As a pure solvent with CAS number 15821-83-7, PNB offers excellent solvency, low toxicity, and good coupling properties, making it a preferred choice for formulators seeking to balance performance with regulatory compliance. This guide provides an in-depth look at the properties, applications, sourcing considerations, and supplier capabilities for PNB, with a focus on the supply from Yunjian (Guangzhou) Import & Export Trade Co., Ltd., a professional chemical supplier established in 2013.

What Is Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (PNB)?

Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (PNB), also known as 1-butoxy-2-propanol, is a colorless liquid with a mild odor. It is a pure solvent supplied in standard 180 kg (180L) carbon steel drums. The product is produced from pure PNB solvent, ensuring consistent quality for demanding industrial applications. According to Yunjian’s product documentation, PNB is intended for use in the electronics and semiconductor, cleaning agents and degreasers, and coatings and inks industries.

Industry Background: The Role of PNB in Modern Formulations

Glycol ethers are a class of solvents prized for their ability to dissolve both polar and non-polar substances. PNB, in particular, offers a unique balance of solvency power and evaporation rate. It functions as a coalescing agent in waterborne coatings, a degreasing solvent in industrial cleaners, and a viscosity reducer in printing inks. Its widespread use is driven by the need for low-volatile organic compound (VOC) formulations that still deliver high-performance end results.

Detailed Product Specification

Yunjian supplies PROPYLENE GLYCOL BUTYL ETHER (PNB) with the following characteristics:

• CAS Number: 15821-83-7
• Molecular Formula: C7H16O2
• Purity: High-purity (>99%) – derived from pure solvent
• Packaging: 180 kg per drum, carbon steel (180L)
• Material: Pure PNB solvent, no additives

The product is manufactured under controlled processes to ensure batch-to-batch consistency. Yunjian’s affiliated manufacturing entity, Jiangsu Yunjian Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. (established 2018), operates a 30,000 m² facility with an annual production capacity of 60,000 units, supported by an R&D team of 20 engineers. Approximately 20% of the company’s sales are exported, with key markets including the European Union and India.

Key Applications by Industry

PNB serves as a versatile solvent across multiple sectors:

A notable use case is in coating production lines, where PNB is used at normal temperature conditions. In a customer project for an OEM coatings client in China, 20 tons of PNB were supplied for coating formulations, with the project completed within one year.

Comparison with Other Glycol Ethers

Yunjian’s product portfolio includes multiple glycol ethers. The table below compares PNB with its close relatives:

Step-by-Step Procurement Considerations

1. Define application requirements – Identify the specific function (coalescent, degreaser, viscosity modifier).
2. Check specifications – Confirm CAS number, purity, and packaging compatibility with your handling equipment.
3. Evaluate supplier capabilities – Review production capacity, quality management, export experience, and R&D support.
4. Request technical documentation – Ask for batch analysis, safety data sheet (SDS), and certificate of analysis.
5. Clarify logistics and lead times – Discuss drum specifications, shipping terms, and minimum order quantities.

Yunjian, with its multi-location sales service points in Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shaoguan, and Jiangsu, provides support for domestic and international buyers. The company can be reached via email at hx@yunjianchem.com, phone +86 18318338888, or WhatsApp +86 181-489-99443.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (PNB) is a critical solvent for formulators in coatings, inks, and industrial cleaning. Understanding its specifications, applications, and source reliability is key to successful procurement. Yunjian (Guangzhou) Import & Export Trade Co., Ltd., with its established production capacity, R&D strength, and export experience, offers a dependable supply of high-purity PNB. For detailed product information or to discuss your specific needs, contact the Yunjian team today.

Download the company brochure for a full product overview: Yunjian Company Brochure (PDF)