Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
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.
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) Uses
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.
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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