It is a colourless, hygroscopic solid that is soluble in water and polar organic solvents.

It is a commercially significant compound in its own right and as a precursor to other products.

1,4-Butynediol can be produced in the Reppe synthesis, where formaldehyde and acetylene are the reactants:[3] Several patented production methods use copper bismuth catalysts coated on an inert material.

It is also used in the manufacture of certain herbicides, textile additives, corrosion inhibitors, plasticizers, synthetic resins, and polyurethanes.

1,4-Butynediol is corrosive and irritates the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.