Butyl Glycol (2-Butoxyethanol) Supplier South Africa

What Is Butyl Glycol?

Butyl Glycol (BG), also known as 2-butoxyethanol or ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (EGMBE), is a short-chain glycol ether solvent widely used in cleaning product and coatings formulation. Its molecular structure — an ethylene glycol core with a butyl ether end group — gives it dual solubility: the ether oxygen provides water miscibility while the butyl chain provides grease and oil solvency. This dual character, combined with a moderate boiling point (~171°C) and flammable but not highly volatile character, makes BG the most cost-effective and widely used glycol ether co-solvent in cleaning product manufacturing.

Role in Cleaning Formulations

Butyl glycol is the primary co-solvent and coupler in all-purpose cleaning concentrates, glass and window cleaners, hard surface degreasers, and multi-purpose sprays. As a coupler, it maintains a clear, stable solution in formulations that combine water-soluble surfactants with oil-soluble fragrances or active ingredients that would otherwise phase-separate. As a grease solvent, BG penetrates and dissolves hydrocarbon and animal fat soils on hard surfaces, particularly on kitchen equipment and floors. Its partial water miscibility allows it to be formulated at a wide range of concentrations for products from dilute (spray-and-wipe) to concentrated (industrial degreaser) applications.

Supply and Safety Notes

Terracore Chemicals supplies technical-grade butyl glycol in drums and IBCs. We advise on safe handling practices, as BG can be absorbed through skin and its use in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces requires adequate respiratory protection. Maximum workplace exposure limits (OELs) apply. We can advise on substitution with BDG for applications where skin and vapour exposure are a concern.