isobutylene

American  

[ahy-suh-byoot-l-een] / ˌaɪ səˈbyut lˌin /

Also isobutene

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, very volatile liquid or flammable gas, C 4 H 8 , used chiefly in the manufacture of butyl rubber.

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Etymology

Origin of isobutylene

First recorded in 1870–75; iso- + butylene

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, isobutylene is a flammable gas used to make O-rings, window seals and bottle stoppers.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2023

One car carrying isobutylene, a flammable gas with a petroleum-like odor, did not appear to be breached in the derailment, according to Norfolk Southern.

From New York Times • Feb. 15, 2023

Also being transported on the ill-fated train were ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylhexyl acrylate and isobutylene.

From Washington Times • Feb. 14, 2023

Exposure to large amounts of the other three chemicals, two of them liquid and one, isobutylene, a flammable gas, is also known to cause headaches, nausea and respiratory problems.

From Washington Post • Feb. 14, 2023

Authorities said a transfer line ignited in the area of a tank of isobutylene — a flammable colorless gas used in the production of high octane gasoline — which then caught on fire.

From Fox News • Apr. 2, 2019