Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL): All You Need to Know

If you’ve ever heard of Gamma-Butyrolactone or GBL, you’re likely curious about what it is and how to use it. This blog post will provide a complete guide on GBL, its uses, and the potential dangers associated with its use. From what it is to its possible benefits and side effects, you can make an informed decision when deciding whether or not to purchase it.

What is Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL)?

What Is Gamma-Butyrolactone
What Is Gamma-Butyrolactone

Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₄H₆O₂, also known as gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) or 4-hydroxybutyric acid lactone. It is a colorless, odorless compound with a pleasant sweet taste. GBL is a naturally occurring compound that certain plants, fungi, and bacteria produce. It can also be artificially synthesized in the laboratory.

Due to its potential for misuse and abuse, GBL is tightly regulated in many countries and is available only through a prescription or with a valid license. People should also know the legal consequences of possessing or selling GBL, as the punishments can be severe.

Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) properties and structure

Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL), also known as 4-Butyrolactone, is a colorless, odorless, and slightly viscous liquid with the molecular formula C4H6O2. It is a versatile industrial chemical with various applications in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and industrial solvents. This article will explore the chemical and physical properties of GBL, its structure, and Cas # 96-48-0.

Chemical Properties

GBL has a molecular weight of 86.1 g/mol and is a hydroxy-functional lactone. It is a clear, colorless, hygroscopic liquid soluble in most organic solvents. GBL has a boiling point of 204°C and a melting point of -45°C. It is moderately volatile and stable in the presence of oxidizing agents.

Physical Properties

GBL has low toxicity but can be corrosive to metals and skin. It has a flash point of 53.9°C and a relative dielectric constant of 4.97. GBL is not considered a hazardous material and does not require special labeling or disposal procedures.

Structure and Reactions

gamma butyrolactone 96-48-0
gamma butyrolactone

GBL is a cyclic molecule with a five-membered ring structure. It is formed from the condensation of 1,4-butanediol with acetaldehyde. GBL undergoes several essential reactions, including esterification, hydrolysis, and oxidation. GBL can also be a precursor to gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB).

Uses

GBL is used in various pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and industrial solvents. It is commonly used as a solvent for coatings, inks, adhesives, and resins. GBL is also used in producing GHB, a psychoactive drug with several medical applications and a recreational drug.

Safety

It is important to take care when handling GBL due to its corrosive properties. It should only be stored in well-ventilated areas and away from heat sources. GBL should be kept away from incompatible materials and should never be ingested.

What is gamma-butyrolactone used for?

gamma butyrolactone gbl
gamma butyrolactone gbl

GBL is primarily used as an industrial solvent for cleaning oils, fats, and waxes from metal surfaces and removing textile adhesives. It is also used in the food industry as an extractant for flavors and fragrances, a solvent for dyes, and a chemical agent. GBL is used in the production of polymers, plastics, and resins, as well as in the production of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

In addition, GBL has a variety of medical uses. It is used as a sedative and hypnotic, as an anesthetic, and as an antidepressant. GBL is also used to treat narcolepsy and enuresis and to reduce muscular spasms. It has also been used in the treatment of alcohol and opiate addiction.

Due to its wide range of uses, GBL is a common chemical in many industries. It is also a popular recreational drug called “liquid ecstasy” or “fantasy.” GBL is also an adulterant in illicit drugs such as ecstasy, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. Using GBL as an adulterant can be very dangerous, producing adverse reactions such as vomiting, nausea, agitation, and even coma.

What is the benefit of gamma-butyrolactone?

GBL is used in many industries as a solvent, including paint and coatings, inks, adhesives, and printing. It also produces consumer products like plastics, resins, and rubber. GBL is even found in some pharmaceuticals.

The primary benefit of GBL is its ability to quickly break down cellulose and dissolve proteins and other organic compounds. This makes it a helpful solvent for paint, coating, and adhesive applications, as well as for delaminating layers of plastic. GBL is also useful for producing polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyacrylates and dissolving many other polymeric materials.

Another benefit of GBL is its low toxicity. GBL has a low oral LD50, the amount of a substance that must be consumed to cause death in 50% of the test population. This means GBL is relatively safe to use and handle compared to other industrial solvents.

Overall, GBL is a versatile industrial solvent with many benefits. Its ability to quickly dissolve proteins and other organic compounds and its low toxicity make it a valuable tool in many industries.

What is the side effect of gamma-butyrolactone?

When taken in large doses, GBL can cause various side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, vomiting, agitation, and in severe cases, coma and even death. Additionally, if abruptly stopped, GBL can cause physical dependency and addiction and lead to withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, GBL has been known to interact with other legal and illegal drugs and can cause serious health issues when taken with certain medications.

Other side effects of GBL include nausea, headache, blurred vision, rapid heart rate, and increased blood pressure. In addition, long-term abuse of GBL can lead to severe psychological and physical problems. This can include depression, anxiety, paranoia, and even psychotic episodes.

As with any drug, it is important to be aware of GBL’s potential risks and use it responsibly. If you are considering using GBL, speaking with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your circumstance is essential. Additionally, if you have a history of addiction or mental illness, seeking treatment before using GBL is essential.

How is gamma-butyrolactone synthesis?

Synthesizing gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), Cas #96-48-0, is a complex process that involves several steps. The most common approach to synthesizing GBL is through acidification or lipase reaction using 4-hydroxybutyrate (4-HB), prepared through microbial fermentation.

The process of making GBL through acidification begins with the preparation of 4-HB. This can be done through microbial fermentation, where microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi break down organic compounds into 4-HB. Once the 4-HB is prepared, it is reacted with an acid such as hydrochloric acid to yield GBL.

Alternatively, GBL can also be synthesized through a lipase reaction. Lipase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of fats and oils to produce glycerol and free fatty acids. When GBL is synthesized through a lipase reaction, the enzyme catalyzes the reaction between 4-HB and an alcohol such as ethanol. The resulting product is GBL.

The synthesis of GBL is an essential process in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, and other products. GBL is also used as a solvent in many industrial processes and as a reagent in organic synthesis. As such, it is essential to understand the chemistry behind the synthesis of GBL to ensure that it is produced safely and efficiently.

Where to buy gamma butyrolactone (GBL)?

Regarding where to buy gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), several options are available. One of the most popular places to buy GBL is online. You can purchase GBL from Amazon, eBay, and Anbu Chem sites. These sites offer reliable and secure services, so you can rest assured that your purchase will be safe and secure.

When purchasing GBL from Amazon or eBay, you’ll find that the prices are competitive and the shipping options are reliable. Furthermore, these sites offer a wide selection of GBL products. This means you can easily find the product that meets your needs and budget.

Anbu Chem is another excellent place to purchase GBL. Anbu Chem is one gamma-butyrolactone supplier in China known for providing quality GBL at competitive prices. Furthermore, Anbu Chem offers a variety of shipping options, meaning you can select the best method for you. Plus, Anbu Chem is known for providing excellent customer service, so you’ll see you’re in good hands.

No matter where you buy gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), research before purchasing. Read reviews and check customer feedback to ensure you’re getting a quality product. Once you’ve found the right place to buy GBL, you’ll be ready to start your project!

How to find gamma butyrolactone suppliers?

Are you looking for gamma-butyrolactone suppliers? Finding reliable suppliers can be difficult, but there are a variety of ways to locate suppliers.

Using Google: Using Google’s powerful search engine can be one of the quickest ways to find gamma-butyrolactone suppliers. Just enter “gamma-butyrolactone suppliers” into the search bar, and you’ll be presented with a list of potential suppliers.

Using Alibaba: Alibaba is one of the world’s largest online marketplaces and home to various suppliers offering gamma-butyrolactone. Simply search “gamma-butyrolactone suppliers,” and you’ll have access to many suppliers.

Using Linkedin: Linkedin also provides an effective way to find suppliers for gamma-butyrolactone. You can search for “gamma-butyrolactone suppliers” and contact them directly.

Using Youtube: Youtube can be a great place to find suppliers for gamma-butyrolactone. You can search for “gamma-butyrolactone suppliers” and see videos from suppliers detailing their products and services.

Using Canton Fair: The Canton Fair is the largest trade fair in China and offers an excellent opportunity to source gamma-butyrolactone suppliers. You can find a range of suppliers providing gamma-butyrolactone and other related chemicals.

You can find reliable gamma-butyrolactone suppliers using the above methods and get the quality products you need. You can find suppliers who can meet your needs through Google, Alibaba, Linkedin, Youtube, or the Canton Fair.

FAQs about gamma butyrolactone

Is gamma butyrolactone illegal?

Unfortunately, GBL is illegal in the United States and many other countries. It was classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance in 2000, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and is not approved for medicinal purposes. Possessing, purchasing, or distributing GBL in most places is illegal.

That being said, GBL still has several legal uses. It is used in various industrial solvents, such as those found in paint thinners and cleaning products. It can also be used to produce certain pharmaceuticals and is used in some beauty products.

What products contain gamma-butyrolactone?

Products containing GBL can be found in many industries, including:

Cosmetics: GBL is used as an emulsifier and solubilizer in lotions, creams, and makeup. It helps disperse the product’s oil and water, giving them a smooth texture. It also helps to preserve the product by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Pharmaceuticals: GBL is used in various medications, such as muscle relaxants, sedatives, and anti-seizure medications. It is also used in cough syrup as a preservative and flavoring agent.

Industrial Products: GBL is used in various products, such as lubricants, paint removers, and adhesives. It is also a metal degreasing agent and a solvent for plastics and rubber.

Other Products: GBL is used in some food and beverage products, such as energy drinks and sports supplements. It is also used as a solvent in paint and varnish, as a chemical intermediate in producing some flavors and fragrances, and for degreasing and cleaning purposes.

How to store gamma-butyrolactone properly?

Before we get into the specifics of how to store GBL properly, let’s first review some basic safety information. GBL is a colorless, odorless, highly flammable liquid that can be hazardous to human health. It’s essential to keep GBL away from any open flames or other heat sources and always to wear protective clothing, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a respirator when handling it.

Now, let’s discuss the best ways to store GBL. The most important thing to remember when storing GBL is to keep it away from sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the GBL to break down and become less effective. Furthermore, GBL should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably away from any other chemicals and away from any sources of heat or sparks.

Keeping the lid tightly sealed is also essential to ensure the GBL doesn’t evaporate. GBL is also highly soluble in water, so it should be kept from any excess moisture in the air. It’s best to keep GBL in its original container, as plastic containers may leach chemicals into the GBL, making it less effective. Additionally, plastic containers may not be able to withstand the pressure of GBL, so it’s best to stick with the original container.

Finally, GBL should be kept out of the reach of children and pets. GBL is a highly toxic chemical and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Therefore, it is best to keep GBL away from areas where children and pets can access it.

Dangers and Warnings for GBL Usage

GBL is a highly potent chemical; even small doses can be harmful. It can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and loss of consciousness. GBL can cause seizures, coma, and even death in large doses. It is also highly addictive, and long-term users may suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and cravings.

GBL is often adulterated with other substances, such as ketamine, GHB, and caffeine. These contaminants can cause serious health problems, including organ failure and death. It is also important to note that GBL is a controlled substance in many countries, and drug possession is illegal.

When buying GBL from a dealer or online, it is essential to know the risks involved. Ensure the product is from a reputable source and not adulterated with other substances. Further, never mix GBL with alcohol or other drugs, as this could lead to serious health complications.

The Final Thought

In conclusion, Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) is a powerful chemical used in many industries and products, from paint strippers to solvents. It is important to understand the risks associated with GBL, as it can be toxic if misused. It is also essential to be aware of the legal implications of possessing and using GBL, as it is a controlled substance in many countries. GBL can be a practical and helpful chemical by understanding these risks and regulations.

Maria Zhang

Maria Zhang

Maria Zhang, an experienced chemical industrial expert with more than 10 years of experience. She has worked with a range of industries, from large-scale manufacturing and research to smaller-scale projects. With her expertise, you can learn differently chemical knowledge!

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