3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (MMB) | Solvent | CAS# 56539-66-3

• Origin: Japan
• CAS Number: 61849-72-7

3-Methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (MMB) MMB is an organic solvent belonging to the glycol ether group, also known as 3-Methyl-3-methoxybutanol or MethoxyMethylButanol. Its molecular formula is C₆H₁₄O₂. MMB typically exists as a clear, colorless liquid that is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents.

Thanks to its molecular structure containing both hydroxyl and ether groups, MMB is able to interact with both polar components and some organic components in formulations. This property makes MMB a versatile solvent for a wide range of product systems, from detergents and paints/inks to fragrances and air care products.

1. Description and characteristics of MMB

MMB is a clear, colorless liquid with good solubility in water and a relatively mild odor. Some reference parameters for MMB include a boiling point of approximately 173–175°C, a density of approximately 0.926 g/mL at 20°C, and a refractive index of approximately 1.428.

A notable characteristic of MMB is its controlled volatility, falling between that of many fast-evaporating solvents and those with slower evaporation rates. This allows MMB to be used to regulate drying, solvent release, or fragrance dispersion in various formulations.

2. What is the purpose of MMB?

MMB is primarily used as a solvent and formulation aid, helping to dissolve, disperse, or improve the processability of various components.

Common MMB roles include:

• Solvent: It dissolves many types of organic materials and aids in mixing with water systems.
• Supporting solvents in aqueous systems: Thanks to its water solubility, MMB is suitable for many water-based formulations.
• Cleaning aid: It increases the ability to dissolve and remove oil, grease, dirt, or other substances adhering to surfaces.
• Solvents for paints and inks: It helps dissolve resin components and adjust formulation properties.
• Solvents for flavorings: It is used in a number of fragrance formulations and scented products.
• Evaporation control agent: It helps to adjust the drying speed or dispersion rate of the formulation.

3. Applications of MMB in the Fragrance Industry

MMB is used as a solvent for fragrances and scented products. Its water solubility combined with its relatively unique volatility makes MMB a suitable choice for formulations requiring a balance between solubility, evaporation rate, and fragrance longevity. Technical sources indicate that MMB is used as a solvent for fragrances and air fresheners.

Specifically, in the air care category, MMB is used in products such as room sprays and reed diffusers. According to Kuraray, MMB can support the evaporation process of fragrance in diffusers, helping the product disperse better into the remaining solvent/fragrance and mitigating some issues related to the product's appearance.

Therefore, MMB can be used in formula research:

• Room spray
• Air freshener
• Reed diffuser
• Fragrance oil
• Liquid fragrance products
• Some industrial fragrance formulas