Chemical Additives

Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₁₆H₂₂O₄. It is an ester of phthalic acid and isobutanol, consisting of a phthalate backbone with two isobutyl groups (-CH₂CH(CH₃)₂) attached. This structure makes it a plasticizer, commonly used to improve the flexibility and durability of plastics.

Diisobutyl phthalate is widely used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, such as cables, flooring, and coatings. It is also employed in the formulation of adhesives, inks, and cosmetics. However, due to environmental and health concerns, its use is increasingly regulated in many regions.

The compound is typically a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild odor. It is relatively stable but can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon prolonged exposure. Proper handling, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), is essential. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat and incompatible materials.

Key Properties

Physical and Chemical Properties of DIBP

Property	Value
Molecular Formula	C₁₆H₂₂O₄
Molecular Weight	278.35 g/mol
Boiling Point	327°C
Melting Point	-50°C
Solubility in Water	0.01 g/L (low)
Appearance	Clear, oily liquid

Primary Applications

DIBP is widely used in:

Plastics manufacturing (PVC, adhesives, coatings)

Printing inks

Consumer products (flooring, synthetic leather)

Comparison of DIBP with Other Common Phthalates

Property	DIBP	DBP	DEHP
Flexibility	High	High	Very High
Volatility	Moderate	High	Low
Toxicity	Moderate	High	High

Safety and Environmental Concerns

Health Risks: Potential endocrine disruptor, linked to reproductive toxicity.

Regulatory Status: Restricted in toys, childcare products (EU REACH, US EPA).

Environmental Impact: Poor biodegradability, bioaccumulation risk.

Regulatory Limits for DIBP Exposure

Region	Permissible Limit	Regulated Products
EU	≤ 0.1% (weight)	Toys, childcare items
USA	Restricted (EPA)	Consumer plastics
China	Restricted (GB)	PVC materials

 

Category	Details
Chemical Formula	C₁₆H₂₂O₄; phthalic acid ester
Key Applications	– Plasticizers: PVC flexibility enhancer – Adhesives: Nitrile-based formulations – Lubricants: Low-temp oil additive – Cosmetics: Nail polish binder
Physical Properties	– Boiling Point: 340°C – Flash Point: 182°C (closed cup) – Viscosity: 45cSt @20°C – Solubility: <0.1% in water
Safety Concerns	– Toxicity: Reproductive/developmental effects – Regulatory Status: REACH Annex XVII restricted – Exposure Routes: Inhalation, dermal contact – Handling: Avoid heat/sparks
Environmental Impact	– Persistence: Low biodegradation potential – Bioaccumulation: Log Kow=4.9 – Aquatic Toxicity: LC50 (Daphnia)=18mg/L – Soil Mobility: Moderate (Koc=320)
Alternatives	– Non-phthalate: DINCH, DOTP – Bio-based: Epoxidized soybean oil – Regulatory Compliance: RoHS, CPSIA restrictions
Market Dynamics	– Demand Shift: Declining in toys/childcare products – Growth Areas: Automotive underbody coatings – Price Drivers: Phthalic anhydride feedstock costs
Sustainability Trends	– Circular Economy: Recycling PVC containing DIBP – Product Stewardship: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs – Green Chemistry: Enzymatic synthesis research

Note: Traditional plasticizer facing regulatory pressures. Transitioning to specialty applications with stricter exposure controls.

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