Chlorobutanol (trichloro-2-methyl-2-propanol) is an organic compound with the formula CCl3C(OH)(CH3)2. The compound is an example of a chlorohydrin. The compound is a preservative, sedative, hypnotic and weak local anesthetic similar in nature to chloral hydrate. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Chlorobutanol is typically used at a concentration of 0.5% where it lends long term stability to multi-ingredient formulations. However, it retains antimicrobial activity at 0.05% in water. Chlorobutanol has been used in anesthesia and euthanasia of invertebrates and fishes. It is a white, volatile solid with a camphor-like odor.

Synthesis

Chlorobutanol was first synthesized in 1881 by the German chemist Conrad Willgerodt (1841–1930). Chlorobutanol is formed by the reaction of chloroform and acetone in the presence of potassium or sodium hydroxide. It may be purified by sublimation or recrystallisation.

Parthenogenesis

Chlorobutanol has proven effective at stimulating parthenogenesis in sea urchin eggs up to the pluteus stage, possibly by increasing irritability to cause stimulation. For the eggs of the fish Oryzias latipes, however, chlorobutanol only acted as an anesthetic.

Pharmacology and toxicity

It is an anesthetic with effects related to isoflurane and halothane. Chlorobutanol is toxic to the liver, a skin irritant and a severe eye irritant.