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.

Description

Dicumyl Peroxide Uses

Primary Uses 
  1. 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.

  1. Polymerization Initiator

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

  1. 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 
  1. Adhesives & Sealants

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

  1. Coatings Industry

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

  1. Composite Materials

  • Used in polymer composite manufacturing for enhanced cross-linking and mechanical performance.

  1. Laboratory & Research Applications

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

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Classified as hazardous under most transportation regulations

  • Subject to strict handling, storage, and disposal regulations due to explosive potential

  1. 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