Indole Butyric Acid (IBA): Properties, Applications, and Market Value
Indole butyric acid, commonly abbreviated as IBA, is one of the most important synthetic auxins used in agriculture, horticulture, and plant biotechnology. Identified by cas 133 32 4, this compound is widely recognized for its effectiveness in promoting root formation and improving plant establishment. Alongside other auxins such as 3-indoleacetic acid, IBA plays a crucial role in regulating plant growth and development. This article provides an in-depth discussion of indole butyric acid, its relationship with other auxins, its practical uses, and insights into the indole butyric acid price in the global market.
Chemical Identity and Relationship with 3-Indoleacetic Acid
Indole butyric acid is an organic compound derived from the indole structure, consisting of an indole ring attached to a butyric acid side chain. It is chemically related to natural auxins and is often compared to 3-indoleacetic acid, the primary naturally occurring auxin found in plants. While 3-indoleacetic acid is produced naturally within plant tissues, IBA is considered a synthetic or semi-synthetic auxin, although some plants may convert IBA into IAA internally.
The compound is officially registered under cas 133 32 4, which ensures its consistent identification across scientific research, regulatory documentation, and commercial trade. In its pure form, indole butyric acid appears as a white to pale yellow crystalline solid. It has limited solubility in water but dissolves well in alcohols and other organic solvents, making it suitable for various formulations such as powders, solutions, and gels.
One of the key advantages of IBA over 3-indoleacetic acid is its chemical stability. IAA tends to degrade rapidly under light and high temperatures, while IBA remains active for longer periods after application. This stability allows indole butyric acid to provide more predictable and sustained effects in agricultural and horticultural settings. Because of this, many growers prefer IBA when consistent rooting and growth regulation are required.
Indole Butyric Acid Uses in Plant Growth and Agriculture
The indole butyric acid uses in plant production are extensive, with root induction being the most well-known application. IBA is widely used to stimulate adventitious root formation in stem and leaf cuttings. Ornamental plants, fruit trees, shrubs, and forest species all respond positively to treatment with indole butyric acid, showing higher rooting percentages and stronger root systems.
In commercial nurseries, IBA is a standard component of rooting powders and gels. These products help ensure uniform root development, reduce propagation time, and improve the survival rate of young plants. Compared with 3-indoleacetic acid, IBA is less likely to cause tissue damage at effective concentrations, making it safer for routine use.
Beyond propagation, indole butyric acid also supports early plant establishment after transplanting. Application of IBA encourages rapid root growth, allowing plants to absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. This reduces transplant shock and improves overall plant vigor, especially in vegetables and young fruit trees.
In plant tissue culture, indole butyric acid is frequently used as a growth regulator in culture media. Together with cytokinins, it helps control organ differentiation, particularly root formation in regenerated plantlets. Although 3-indoleacetic acid is also used in tissue culture, IBA is often preferred because of its stability and lower rate of degradation during sterilization and storage.
Additionally, IBA contributes to improved stress tolerance by enhancing root architecture. Stronger and more extensive root systems enable plants to better withstand drought, nutrient deficiency, and environmental stress. These benefits highlight why indole butyric acid uses extend far beyond simple rooting and play a broader role in sustainable crop production.
Indole Butyric Acid Price and Market Considerations
The indole butyric acid price varies depending on several factors, including purity, formulation, packaging size, and regional market conditions. Technical-grade IBA used for manufacturing agricultural products is generally priced lower per kilogram than highly purified laboratory-grade material. Branded formulations designed for direct agricultural use tend to cost more due to formulation, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
Despite these variations, indole butyric acid is widely regarded as a cost-effective plant growth regulator. Because it is effective at very low concentrations, only small amounts are required to treat large numbers of plants. This keeps the overall cost per hectare or per batch of cuttings relatively low, making IBA accessible to both small-scale growers and large commercial operations.
When evaluating the indole butyric acid price, buyers should consider product quality and consistency rather than cost alone. Reliable concentration, proper labeling, and compliance with agricultural regulations are essential for achieving consistent results and avoiding crop damage. Products associated with cas 133 32 4 provide assurance that the compound meets recognized chemical standards.
Global demand for indole butyric acid continues to grow due to expanding horticultural industries and increased emphasis on efficient plant propagation. Compared with 3-indoleacetic acid, IBA often offers better value because of its longer shelf life and more stable performance under field conditions. These factors contribute to its strong and sustained presence in the global plant growth regulator market.
Indole butyric acid, identified by cas 133 32 4, is a highly effective and widely used auxin in modern agriculture and horticulture. Its close relationship with 3-indoleacetic acid highlights its biological relevance, while its superior stability and safety profile make it a preferred choice for many applications. From propagation and transplant establishment to tissue culture and stress management, the indole butyric acid uses are diverse and impactful. Combined with a generally affordable indole butyric acid price, IBA remains an essential tool for improving plant growth, productivity, and sustainability across a wide range of agricultural systems.
