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The major markets for 1,4-butanediol are tetrahydrofuran, polybutylene terephthalate,
gamma-butyrolactone and polyurethanes. Total world consumption amounted to
more than 1.3 million metric tons in 2006. About two-thirds of 1,4-butanediol
is used captively; about half of the noncaptive use of 1,4-butanediol is tied
up in long-term contracts ranging from five to seven years. The industry is
moving away from sole sourcing and long-term contracts beyond ten years.
The following chart shows regional consumption of 1,4-butanediol by end use:
1,4-Butanediol’s potential for abuse has led some states to consider
regulating it as a controlled substance. 1,4-Butanediol producers have established
distribution and storage security systems to meet such regulations. The Food
and Drug Administration has declared 1,4-butanediol a Class 1 health hazard,
which means it poses a potentially life-threatening risk if ingested. 1,4-Butanediol
is a chemical that, in cases of intentional abuse, can cause dangerously low
respiratory rates, unconsciousness, vomiting, seizures and death.
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