Butyral

/ˈbjuːtərəl/ noun

Definition

A polymer made by reacting polyvinyl alcohol with butyraldehyde, used in safety glass and adhesives.

Etymology

From butyraldehyde (butyric aldehyde) + -al suffix. The compound's name reflects its chemical origin in the reaction between two parent chemicals.

Kelly Says

Polyvinyl butyral is the invisible safety glass in your car windshield—it holds glass together when it shatters, preventing the deadly sharp spray that once injured passengers in crashes.

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