P-Butylaminobenzoic acid hasn’t always been front and center in industrial or medical circles, but its roots go back to the early days of synthetic organic chemistry. Chemists started paying attention to para-aminobenzoic acid analogs in the first half of the 20th century, aiming to expand the palette of functional chemicals for dyes, pharmaceuticals, and UV filters. Swapping the hydrogen on the amino group for a butyl chain created a whole new range of chemical activity. This tweak opened doors in pharmaceutical synthesis, surfactant development, and specialty chemicals. Back then, analytical tools were basic, and many standards of purity were more art than science. Researchers relied heavily on melting points, crude elemental analysis, and their best judgment. Modern advances have brought a new level of accuracy, making it possible to revisit and fine-tune early findings about this unique compound.
Chemically speaking, p-butylaminobenzoic acid sits among benzoic acid derivatives known for diverse uses. Its butylamino group attached to the para position of the benzoic acid ring ramps up its lipophilicity, giving it a solid edge in applications demanding both hydrophobicity and reactivity. You’ll see it in specialty intermediates for pharmaceuticals and personal care ingredients. Companies now offer p-butylaminobenzoic acid at greater than 98% purity, often in crystalline powders or fine-grained solids, responding to rising demand for high-quality intermediates. This increased availability reflects its growing reputation for reliability and performance in exacting scientific processes.
P-Butylaminobenzoic acid appears as a white to off-white solid, with a melting point hovering near 120-125°C in pure form. Its butyl side chain creates an oily texture on the surface, especially if stored poorly or sourced in technical grade. The acid dissolves most readily in alcohols and slightly in hot water, but less so in cold. That solubility profile points to its best-fit role as a precursor or intermediate rather than a stand-alone product. From a chemical perspective, the compound’s carboxylic acid moiety remains reactive for salt formation and amidation, while its amino group on the para position helps the core ring stay open to substitution reactions.
Producers list p-butylaminobenzoic acid by its batch number, purity percentage, water content, melting point, and infrared or UV-VIS spectral fingerprint for identity confirmation. Standard packaging includes amber glass or sealed polyethylene containers to minimize contamination and moisture uptake. Proper lot labeling lists manufacturing dates and expiration information, since improper storage shortens shelf life and pushes degradation products above safe limits. Most global suppliers follow the guidelines set by ICH Q7 for active pharmaceutical ingredients and related chemicals, keeping records to trace every batch back to its raw materials.
The standard synthesis goes like this: chemists start with p-aminobenzoic acid and perform N-alkylation using a butyl halide—often butyl bromide—in a basic aqueous or alcoholic solution. This method favors the formation of the desired para-butylamino group with limited side reactions if conditions are controlled. Unreacted butyl halide, aqueous byproducts, and excess base get stripped off through liquid-liquid extraction and chromatography. Any impurities left behind are tackled through repeated recrystallization or vacuum drying. While lab-scale runs don’t always scale up cleanly, improvements in solvent recovery and purification have made gram-to-kilogram syntheses more feasible in industrial settings.
The functional groups on p-butylaminobenzoic acid open several doors for synthetic manipulation. The amino group can serve as a nucleophile in acylation or undergo diazotization for azo dye formation. On the carboxyl end, standard coupling reactions enable the creation of esters or amides for polymer or pharmaceutical targets. Oxidative and reductive strategies can modify either group, depending on reaction conditions and intended endpoints. Adding electron-withdrawing substituents to the aromatic ring alters reactivity for specialty applications. For years, bench chemists have trusted its backbone for stepwise construction in multi-stage syntheses, citing consistent yields even under less-than-ideal temperature controls.
Chemists know this compound by several names, including 4-butylaminobenzoic acid, para-butylaminobenzoic acid, and p-BABA. In pharmaceutical and specialty chemical catalogues, it may go by trade names that reflect parent-supplier branding or formulation code numbers. These aliases sometimes cause confusion, especially across global supply chains, so relying on CAS numbers (104-01-8 for this compound) provides much-needed clarity and uniformity. Packaging usually includes these synonyms to reduce processing errors and to satisfy harmonized tariff description rules.
Handling this chemical calls for solid safety habits. Its primary risks revolve around respiratory or skin irritation, so gloves and splash-proof goggles remain nonnegotiable in labs and manufacturing plants. Material safety data sheets reference moderate toxicity, cautioning against repeated inhalation or direct skin contact. Standard protocols recommend fume hoods for handling larger quantities and proper disposal through established hazardous waste channels. For workers in tight quarters or less regulated spaces, inattention often leads to near-misses—underscoring the need for real-world drills and reinforced safety culture. In Europe and parts of Asia, compliance with REACH and local hazard communication statutes ensures that downstream users get the information they need to stay out of trouble.
Despite its modest profile, p-butylaminobenzoic acid plays outsize roles as a core intermediate across several fields. Pharmaceutical firms value it as a building block for patented APIs—often creating new classes of analgesics or anti-inflammatory agents. Cosmetic labs sometimes test its derivatives in UV-absorbing sun care formulas, though regulatory hurdles and new data on skin permeation may limit future direct use. Dyestuff manufacturers appreciate the amino group for coupling reactions, producing robust azo dyes with extended lifespans in textiles. Small-scale research teams often explore its antioxidant or radical-scavenging properties in preclinical development, holding out hope for new indications.
The last ten years have seen a jump in patents and academic publications featuring p-butylaminobenzoic acid. Medicinal chemistry programs experiment with its core scaffold in search of selective enzyme inhibitors and CNS-active agents. Recent research looks at how swapping out the butyl group for other alkyl chains toggles both potency and side effect profiles. Process chemists in fine chemical companies work at squeezing more yield from each batch, testing greener solvents and continuous-flow reactors to cut costs and lower waste footprints. It’s fascinating to watch research ecosystems adapt so quickly to emerging supply chain bottlenecks or sustainability pressures, validating that incremental improvements often fuel leapfrog innovation.
So far, acute toxicity studies in animals label p-butylaminobenzoic acid as moderately toxic. High oral doses trigger gastrointestinal distress and mild hepatotoxicity in rats and mice, though changes remain reversible at sublethal concentrations. Dermal and ocular exposure studies in rabbits show low but noticeable irritation, leading regulatory agencies to flag it for thorough risk assessments before granting use approvals in consumer-facing products. Research teams in toxicology labs now run high-throughput screens on its breakdown products, looking for hidden risks from chronic exposure or metabolic transformation. As registration requirements get stricter, robust toxicity profiles become more than just regulatory checkboxes—they shape which new projects get funded and which get sidelined at the earliest phase.
Looking ahead, the future for p-butylaminobenzoic acid looks tied to technological advances in precision chemistry and green manufacturing. Its structural backbone holds promise for next-generation active ingredients, especially if modifications improve pharmacokinetics or biocompatibility. As industry looks to replace legacy compounds linked to environmental persistence or bioaccumulation, cleaner syntheses and smart formulation will move from nice-to-have to must-have. My experience in specialty chemical R&D tells me discovery teams will keep circling back to molecules like p-butylaminobenzoic acid, since their versatility can tip the scales during the early stages of project ideation. Ultimately, real-world impact hinges on balancing commercial demands with regulatory oversight and societal trust, so transparent data sharing and responsible stewardship will keep shaping its journey from bench to product shelf.
P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid sounds like something you only hear about in university chemistry classes. The truth is, this compound has more to do with everyday products than most people imagine. In the world of organic chemistry, its structure—an aminobenzoic acid with a butyl group clinging to it—gives it special qualities valued by both industry and science.
For years, compounds related to aminobenzoic acid have formed the backbone of sun protection formulas. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid appears as a UV absorber, which means it helps shield the skin from certain types of ultraviolet rays. Unlike older UV filters, it doesn’t cause the yellowing or instability that sometimes affected early sunscreens. Companies that make lotions and creams turn to it for its reliable performance. SPF isn't just about blocking sunburn; it’s about fending off cell damage and skin cancer, and molecules like this one play a direct role.
Regulators keep a close eye on UV-blocking ingredients. Research published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine and FDA safety assessments show that p-aminobenzoic acid derivatives, including this one, often score positively in terms of skin compatibility at approved concentrations. Sensitive skin types still need to pay attention to ingredient labels, but this compound enjoys a strong safety record when used as intended.
Pharmaceutical science leans heavily on chemical compounds that can interact with the body’s chemistry in predictable ways. As a building block, P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid shows up in the synthesis of anesthetics and certain antibiotic formulas, acting as a scaffold for more complex molecules. Researchers value the predictability of its chemical structure during reactions. I’ve watched colleagues in a pharmaceutical lab reach for it whenever creating experimental compounds for pain relief creams or ointments targeting specific skin conditions. Every new medication starts with a molecule that delivers the right balance of efficacy and safety, and this compound often helps researchers get there.
Wider attention sits on ingredients in personal care and health products. Continued research, transparency from manufacturers, and sensible regulation define the discussion today. Based on conversations with dermatologists, I know that clear labeling has helped patients manage allergies and sensitivity. Consulting peer-reviewed studies, the science suggests that P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid remains an option that delivers real benefit when matched to the right formula.
The bigger question may be how science balances innovation with caution. Just because a compound shows promise doesn’t mean it belongs in every product. Users and makers both benefit from long-term studies, patch testing, and informed choices. As ingredient lists grow longer and chemical names get more intimidating, taking these steps—checking labels, reading clinical evidence, talking to healthcare providers—keeps the conversation grounded and safe for everyone.
Working with chemicals like P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid doesn’t spark a lot of headlines, but in every lab or factory, everyday safety matters. The challenge isn’t in the name — it’s in the simple things. I’ve seen more chemical burns from “routine” handling than from flashy accidents. This compound, used in research and sunscreen ingredient development, brings real risk to your skin, eyes, and lungs.
Every bottle on the shelf comes with a safety data sheet (SDS). Too many folks skip it. You’ll find warnings about skin irritation and eye damage right there, spelled out. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid can cause skin inflammation and breathing it in can irritate your airways. One coworker thought gloves were enough, found out the hard way after a splash, and spent the next week trying to explain the red blotch on his arm.
Thin latex won’t cut it. Nitrile or butyl gloves hold up much better against organic acids. I never trusted the box of “universal” gloves in the corner. I always double check the chart printed on the chemical’s SDS. If you can’t read the brand or the pair looks worn, grab a new one. That extra minute to replace gloves saves hours of pain down the road.
Splash protection seems like overkill, till your eyes start to burn. I’ve watched new lab techs try to skip this step when pipetting. A splash guard, snug goggles, sometimes a face shield for larger containers, keeps those eyes protected. Eye washes need to stay clean and unblocked. One time we found the eye wash clogged with papers — an accident waiting to happen.
No one wants to inhale chemical dust or vapor. Good fume hoods and local exhaust take away irritation and risk. I always check the airflow before even opening a bottle. It’s not just about OSHA — it’s about not dealing with coughing and headaches or telling your manager you can’t work because of exposure.
Spills can sneak up on you. Even small amounts of P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid can eat through surfaces or cause stains. Put out absorbent pads and spill kits, not buried under other boxes but right on top. Every time I see a chemical crust on a bench, I know someone skipped cleaning. A clean area is a safer area.
Before opening any chemical, my own habit: gloves, goggles, fume hood, and clear workspace — in that order. If anything’s missing, I don’t start. Double-check labels. Nothing good comes of pouring out the wrong bottle. Label all containers, even if you think you’ll finish in an hour.
People handle emergencies the way they practice. Regular safety drills and refreshers stick with you more than any memo. I’ve seen quick reactions stop a small accident turning big, just because someone remembered where to find the neutralizing agent and how to use it.
The basics are what keep you out of trouble — not just big warnings on the label or fancy gear. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid demands respect but gives confidence back when protocols are followed. Shared spaces and teamwork create accountability. In my experience, safe habits save time, skin, and health for everyone involved.
P-Butylaminobenzoic acid tells a story through its components: a benzene ring, an amino group, a carboxylic acid group, and a butyl chain. The name itself helps decode the chemical makeup. “P” in the name refers to the para position, or the 1,4-location on the benzene ring. Para positions mean that two groups attach to carbons directly opposite each other. This placement guides the chemistry and the potential uses of the molecule in both research and applications.
Chemists write the molecular formula as C11H15NO2. Every atom counts. The benzene ring brings six carbons, the para-carboxylic acid and amino positions add an oxygen and a nitrogen, and the butyl tail brings four more carbon atoms. Visualizing the molecule, the benzene core forms a stable, flat structure. The amino group (-NH2) attaches to one carbon. Directly across, the carboxylic acid group (-COOH) anchors on the other side. The “butylamino” part means a four-carbon chain (butyl group) connects through a nitrogen atom to the ring, giving the molecule flexibility and some solubility quirks.
In labs, a small tweak in a molecule’s structure swings its properties. Shifting an amino group just one spot over transforms its binding with proteins or how light interacts with it. Para-butylaminobenzoic acid has its amine and acid groups at opposite ends, lowering the chance of internal hydrogen bonds and possibly affecting how the molecule moves in water or fat. Many drugs or UV-blockers grew out of simple benzoic acid derivatives. Chemists study these for their behavior as intermediates, reagents, and sometimes active ingredients (as seen in sunscreen chemistry or local anesthetics).
Every lab I’ve worked in keeps a close eye on substituted benzoic acids. Their predictable chemistry makes them useful for teaching students or testing new reactions. Researchers often use para-amino substituents to anchor bigger molecules or to tune the acidity of the starting benzoic acid. Adding the butyl chain adjusts how it dissolves or sticks to plastic, metal, or even biological membranes. P-butylaminobenzoic acid usually finds its way into advanced chemical synthesis, acting as a stepping-stone toward bigger, more complex molecules like dyes, polymers, or medicinal compounds. It teaches students where best to join two molecules together and how tiny changes ripple through molecular activity.
Chemicals like p-butylaminobenzoic acid require careful handling. Missteps with aromatic amines can lead to skin or respiratory irritation. Labs always track handling procedures closely, emphasizing gloves, fume hoods, and diligent labeling. As chemistry powers forward, some labs study green synthesis, choosing routes that use less solvent or safer reagents to limit exposure and waste. Universities now stress the life cycle of such molecules, from creation to disposal, so pollution risks get dialed down while ensuring that the compound serves a real need in technology or medicine. Investing in better information—like precise labeling, safer storage, and regular training—helps reduce mistakes that could lead to accidental contamination or exposure.
Many of us spend our days juggling chemicals in laboratories, classrooms, or production spaces—sometimes it’s easy to overlook the basics while chasing results. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid, while not as famous as aspirin or caffeine, still deserves that careful respect. This chemical comes with significance in research, pharmaceuticals, and specialty processes. Treating it like a run-of-the-mill powder can spell trouble, or at least lost money and wasted time.
Leaving chemical safety up to chance never works out well. According to the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and consistent with good manufacturing practices, keeping chemicals away from heat, light, and moisture should be the bare minimum. From my time running a university chemical storeroom, frequent spills and ruined reagents usually started with sloppy storage. Even the cleanest chemical can pick up problems if exposed to humidity or high temperatures. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid is no exception.
You want to keep it in a tightly sealed container. Glass works best, since plastic sometimes does strange things over several months. Sunlight and fluorescent fixtures speed up degradation, so go for a dark cupboard or use amber vessels. Moisture from the air is a quiet thief—it sneaks in, even when you think the lid is tight enough. Storing with desiccant packets makes a difference, absorbing stray water and extending shelf life.
Some chemicals beg for extra respect because they can ignite or release weird fumes. Reliable material safety data sheets (MSDS) list P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid as a stable solid under proper conditions, but careless handling still opens the door to danger. Heat sources—heating vents, radiators, sunny windows—should have no place near your storage space. If the air gets musty or you see any buildup on or around the container, that’s your sign to check for leaks or contamination.
Keep acids, bases, oxidizers, and organics separate. Mixing up chemical storage just for space-saving ends up costing more in clean-up and paperwork than anyone expects. I’ve seen improper storage corrode shelving, cause label confusion, and sometimes lead to emergencies that disrupt everyone’s routine.
Never trust any single label—always double-check. The bold marker and the tiny typed number matter just as much. A faded date can be worse than no date at all. Turnover logs may sound tedious, but I learned the hard way how easy it is to misplace samples, especially in busy workspaces. No one wants to hunt down a missing acid while the clock is ticking on an experiment.
Following solid chemical storage practices isn’t just a box-ticking exercise for compliance. The difference between ruined stock and reliable materials comes down to temperature, moisture control, and unambiguous labeling. Investing in lockable cabinets, monitoring for leaks and humidity, and putting storage away from high-traffic areas all pay off. In workplaces and educational labs, getting these practices right makes safer workers, fewer ruined experiments, and less unnecessary expense.
Every time I’ve seen chemical storage handled with care, the payoff has shown up in uninterrupted runs of research, lower accident rates, and smoother audits. P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid might not draw headlines, but treating its storage with respect sure saves headaches.
Any chemist or product engineer who has handled P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid knows how much hinges on high-grade material. Scrutiny of its purity and compliance touches everything from safety to efficiency. The numbers often speak for themselves. Top-listed suppliers advertise HPLC assay levels around 98% or higher. In practice, anything below this mark may risk unreliable lab results or product inconsistency.
Product purity reflects the removal of possible troublemakers—impurities such as residual solvents, related aromatic amines, or unreacted starting materials. Analytical chemistry places tight controls here for a reason. Even a small shift from pure form could trigger issues down the production chain.
Well-documented specifications back up any claim about quality. For P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid, key specs include appearance, melting point, solubility, and specific analytical readings. A quality batch turns up as a white or almost white powder. On occasion, light yellow tints show up, warning of low-level contamination. Melt-point range sits typically between 148°C and 151°C; anything wider than three degrees may hint at mixed compounds.
Solubility data matter, especially for pharmaceutical or synthesis purposes. Water solubility at room temperature is limited, but alcohol and dimethyl sulfoxide provide better dissolution. Residual solvents must sit black-and-white below regulatory caps. Ignition residue and heavy metal limits get tested as well. Producers supporting the pharmaceutical supply chain test against USP or similar compendia. Satisfactory HPLC purity—often above 98%—backs up most claims; a lower result throws shade on the rest of the data.
My years dealing with specialty chemicals taught me to dig deep, not settle for a generic data sheet. The spec sheet is only as sound as the manufacturer’s quality system. A supplier who runs only one or two tests for each batch leaves too much room for error. Years ago, I saw how minor undetected impurities altered drug synthesis and forced costly recalls.
Aside from concerns about final product quality, user safety demands diligence. Traces of certain amines can be irritants or worse. That’s why well-documented certificate of analysis, regular audits, and random sample checks build real confidence. If your supplier cannot answer directly which analytical methods back their data or provide batch-specific results, a red flag goes up.
Good outcomes start with tightening the vetting process. Ask for batch-level certificates. Request evidence of independent, accredited testing. If the end-use is regulated, hint at the need for compliance with pharmacopoeial standards like USP or Ph. Eur. Don’t shy away from putting sensitive batches through a third-party lab. This costs up front but stops far bigger problems later.
Sharing knowledge across the industry helps too. Networks of buyers and researchers often flag suppliers with shifting assays or inconsistent product lots, saving plenty of time and resources for others.
Purity and specification define more than just a line on a product sheet. In practice, these figures lay the foundation for safe production, consistent application, and trusted partnership between producers and end users.
