Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC)
CAS Number: 108-11-2
HS Number: 29051900
What is Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC)?
Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC), also known as 4-methyl-2-pentanol, is a branched C6 alcohol used primarily as a froth flotation frother in mining and mineral processing, where it helps generate consistent bubble size and stable froth to improve recovery and selectivity. Beyond flotation, MIBC is also used as an industrial solvent in coatings, adhesives, and process applications where controlled evaporation and good solvency are required. Chemicals United can supply MIBC in drums, IBCs, and bulk/ISO (subject to origin and availability), with documentation provided in our standard format.
Which industries use Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC)?
Mining & mineral processing (froth flotation) — commonly used in copper, molybdenum, lead–zinc, and selected gold/non-metallic flotation circuits. Also relevant as a solvent for paints & coatings and adhesives & sealants, and for lubricant/degreasing process applications where solvency and controlled evaporation are useful.
What are the applications and properties of Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC)?
Primary application: flotation frother to promote bubble formation, stabilize froth, and support recovery performance in flotation cells. Secondary application: industrial solvent/diluent used in coatings, adhesives, and general chemical processing, including cleaning and degreasing use-cases where a polar protic solvent is suitable.
FAQs
Who manufactures MIBC in Europe?
MIBC is produced by major oxygenated-solvent manufacturers and supplied through their distribution networks. In Europe, companies such as Shell Chemicals Europe BV is an established manufacturers in the MIBC value chain.
Why is MIBC used as a flotation frother?
MIBC helps form and stabilize bubbles at the water–air interface, supporting consistent froth quality and helping maximize recovery in flotation circuits (often in copper, molybdenum, and lead–zinc ores).
Where can I buy MIBC?
You can purchase MIBC from specialty solvent suppliers and chemical distributors. Chemicals United has MIBC for sale with flexible logistics—drums, IBCs, and ISO tanks