Gamma-Butyrolactone
γ-Butyrolactone (GBL) is a hygroscopic colorless, water-miscible liquid with a weak characteristic odor. It is the simplest 4-carbon lactone. It is mainly used as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals, e.g. methyl-2-pyrrolidone. In humans GBL acts as a prodrug for γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), and it is used as a recreational CNS depressant with effects similar to barbiturates.
- Synonyms
- 1,2-butanolide I 1,4-Butanolide I 1,4-Lactone I 4-Butyrolactone
- Chemical Formula
- C4H6O2
- CAS Number
- 96-48-0
Characteristics
- Melting Point
- −45 °C
- Boiling Point
- 204°C
- Flash Point
- 98 °C
- Density
- 1.12 g/mL at 25 °C
Uses and Applications
Industries
- Cleaning
- Beauty & Personal Care
- Water Treatment