Dicumyl Peroxide

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Dicumyl Peroxide (DCP) is a widely used organic peroxide with powerful free radical initiator properties. It appears as a white crystalline solid with a characteristic odor and is primarily employed as a cross-linking agent and polymerization initiator in the plastics and rubber industries. Due to its ability to generate free radicals upon thermal decomposition, it facilitates curing and cross-linking of polymers, improving mechanical properties and heat resistance. Dicumyl Peroxide is a key component in manufacturing processes for polyethylene, polypropylene, EPDM rubber, and other elastomers.

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Categories: Catalysts, Vulcanizing Agents Tags: Crosslinking agent, Dicumyl Peroxide, Industrial chemical, Organic peroxide, Rubber industry

Description

Table of Contents

Dicumyl Peroxide

Primary Uses

Polymer Cross-Linking & Curing Agent

Rubber Industry: Used extensively to cross-link EPDM, polyethylene, and other elastomers, enhancing tensile strength, elasticity, and thermal stability of rubber products.
Plastic Industry: Initiates polymerization and cross-linking in polyethylene and polypropylene, improving chemical resistance and mechanical durability of plastics.
Cable & Wire Industry: Utilized in insulation and jacketing materials for wires and cables to enhance heat resistance and mechanical integrity.
Polymerization Initiator

Employed as a free radical initiator in the synthesis of polymers and copolymers, especially for manufacturing polyethylene and polypropylene with specific properties.
Manufacture of Foams & Thermosets

Used in production of polyethylene foams, hot melt adhesives, and thermosetting plastics to control curing and polymer network formation.

Secondary Uses

Adhesives & Sealants

Facilitates curing and hardening in specialty adhesives and sealant formulations, especially those requiring thermal curing.

Coatings Industry

Acts as a curing agent in powder coatings and specialty coatings to improve durability and chemical resistance.
Composite Materials

Used in polymer composite manufacturing for enhanced cross-linking and mechanical performance.
Laboratory & Research Applications

Applied as a radical initiator in experimental polymerization and organic synthesis studies.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2,2'-Azobis(2-methylpropionitrile) alternative name; but actually: 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-peroxyphenylpropane (Dicumyl Peroxide)
Common/Trade Name: Dicumyl Peroxide (DCP)
CAS Number: 80-43-3
HS Code: 2916.31.00
Molecular Formula: C18H22O2
Synonyms:
- Dicumyl Peroxide
- DCP
- 2,2'-Di(phenylmethyl)peroxide

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: White crystalline solid or powder
Melting Point: Approx. 39–43°C
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents such as benzene, toluene
Stability: Stable under cool, dry storage; decomposes violently on heating above 150°C releasing oxygen and free radicals

Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Explosive organic peroxide; fire and explosion hazard
Reactivity: Highly reactive, especially under heat or contamination
Toxicity: Harmful if inhaled or ingested; irritant to skin and eyes
Exposure Limits: Strict occupational exposure limits apply

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (<30°C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials
Container Type: Use original sealed containers made of suitable materials
Shelf Life: Typically 6–12 months under ideal storage
Handling Precautions: Avoid friction, shock, heat, and contamination; use PPE

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Classified as hazardous under most transportation regulations
Subject to strict handling, storage, and disposal regulations due to explosive potential

Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms; avoid environmental release
Persistence: May degrade in environment but with caution due to toxicity
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required:
- Flame-resistant lab coat or protective clothing
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Respiratory protection if dust or fumes generated
Handling Guidelines:
- Minimize exposure to heat, sparks, and static electricity
- Use explosion-proof equipment and grounding
- Avoid contamination with metals, accelerators, or reducing agents

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical help if symptoms develop
Skin Contact: Wash affected area thoroughly with water and soap; seek medical attention if irritation persists
Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; get medical attention
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical care

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Highly combustible and explosive under heat or contamination
Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide; do not use water jets directly
Special Precautions: Evacuate area; wear full protective gear including self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, phenolic compounds, and other toxic gases