1,4-Dichlorobutane

1,4-Dichlorobutane is a chloroalkane with the molecular formula (CH2CH2Cl)2. It is one of several structural isomers of dichlorobutane. They are all colorless liquids of low flammabiltity and of interest for specialized synthetic uses.

Preparation and reactions
1,4-Dichlorobutane can be obtained from 1,4-butanediol as well as from tetrahydrofuran.

1,4-Dihalobutanes are well suited for the synthesis of 5-membered ring heterocyces. For example, treatment with sodium sulfide gives tetrahydrothiophene. Treatment with lithium wire gives 1,4-dilithiobutane.

1,4-Dichlorobutane can be used, among others, as a precursor for nylon 6,6 (via adiponitrile).