Dibutyl Phthalate

Whatsapp Order

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is a colorless, oily liquid with a faint aromatic odor, belonging to the phthalate ester family. It is primarily used as a plasticizer to impart flexibility, durability, and softness to rigid polymers like polyvinyl chloride (PVC). DBP is valued for its excellent compatibility with polymers, good plasticizing efficiency, low volatility, and resistance to extraction by water and oils. Besides plastics, DBP is utilized in coatings, adhesives, printing inks, cosmetics, and other industrial applications. Its moderate cost and versatile performance make it a key chemical in various manufacturing sectors.

Add to compare

Add to wishlist

Category: Plasticizers Tags: Clear liquid plasticizer, Coatings and adhesives, DBP, Dibutyl Phthalate, Plasticizer chemical, Plastics Industry, Specialty Chemicals

Description

Table of Contents

Dibutyl Phthalate

Primary Uses

Plasticizer in Polymer Industry

PVC and Vinyl Products: DBP is widely used to plasticize rigid PVC, making products flexible and durable. Applications include wires and cables, flooring, synthetic leather, inflatable products, and coated fabrics.
Cellulose Esters: Used in cellulose acetate and cellulose nitrate plastics to improve flexibility and processability.
Other Polymers: Applied in making flexible polymers for seals, gaskets, and hoses.

Coatings and Inks

Printing Inks: Serves as a plasticizer and solvent in nitrocellulose-based printing inks to enhance flexibility, adhesion, and gloss.
Surface Coatings: Used in lacquers and varnishes to improve film flexibility, adhesion, and durability.

Adhesives and Sealants

Acts as a plasticizer in solvent-based adhesives, improving tackiness, flexibility, and longevity of bonds.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Historically used in nail polishes and other cosmetic formulations to impart flexibility and durability. (Note: Use in cosmetics is regulated or banned in some regions due to health concerns.)

Pharmaceutical Industry

Employed as a plasticizer for film coatings of tablets and capsules to improve mechanical properties.

Secondary Uses

Textile Industry

Used as a softener and plasticizer for synthetic fibers and fabrics to improve feel and flexibility.

Rubber Industry

Acts as a processing aid and plasticizer in synthetic rubber formulations.

Specialty Chemicals

Utilized in manufacturing specialty phthalate derivatives and intermediates.

Laboratory Use

Sometimes used as a solvent or plasticizer in experimental polymer blends and formulations.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Dibutyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate
Common/Trade Name: Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
CAS Number: 84-74-2
HS Code: 2917.33.00
Molecular Formula: C16H22O4
Synonyms:
- DBP
- Di-n-butyl phthalate
- Phthalic acid dibutyl ester
- Di-n-butyl orthophthalate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Colorless oily liquid
Odor: Mild aromatic
Boiling Point: 340°C (644°F)
Melting Point: −35°C
Flash Point: 145°C (closed cup)
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like alcohols, ethers, and oils
Density: 1.05 g/cm³ at 20°C
Vapor Pressure: Low volatility (~4.3 x 10⁻⁵ mmHg at 25°C)

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Reproductive toxicity category 1B; flammable liquid category 4
Toxicity: Suspected endocrine disruptor; potential reproductive toxicant (regulated in many jurisdictions)
Flammability: Combustible liquid with high flash point
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL and ACGIH TLV vary; generally limited due to reproductive health concerns

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers, away from heat, sparks, and oxidizing agents
Container Type: Steel drums or chemical-grade HDPE containers
Shelf Life: Stable for several years under proper storage
Handling Precautions: Use PPE; avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Regulatory Status: Restricted or banned in cosmetics in EU, USA, and other regions due to reproductive toxicity concerns
Transportation: Classified as hazardous for transport; follow flammable liquid regulations
Environmental Compliance: Subject to environmental release controls; monitored for aquatic toxicity

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Moderately biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid environmental release
Bioaccumulation: Potential to bioaccumulate in aquatic species
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; reproductive toxicity is primary concern

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required:
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Protective clothing
- Use adequate ventilation or respiratory protection if needed
Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid inhalation of vapors and skin contact
- Prevent environmental release
- Follow strict hygiene practices after handling
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly closed and in cool, dry, ventilated area
- Separate from oxidizers and strong acids

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation occurs
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; get medical help if irritation persists
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth; seek immediate medical attention

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; moderate fire risk
Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing
Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, phthalic anhydride, and other toxic fumes