Dibutyl phthalate is a chemical commonly used as a plasticizer in various products, such as plastics, adhesives, and cosmetics. It helps increase flexibility and durability.
| IUPAC Name | Dibutyl Phthalate |
| Molecular Formula | C16H22O4 |
| CAS Number | 84-74-2 |
| Synonyms | DBP, Di-n-butyl phthalate, n-Butyl phthalate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C16H22O4/c1-3-5-11-17-15(13-9-7-8-10-14(13)16(11)17)12-6-4-2/h7-10H,3-6,11-12H2,1-2H3 |
Dibutyl Phthalate Properties
Dibutyl Phthalate Formula
The chemical formula of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is C16H22O4. It consists of 16 carbon atoms, 22 hydrogen atoms, and 4 oxygen atoms. The formula represents the specific arrangement of these atoms in the molecule of DBP.
Dibutyl Phthalate Molar Mass
The molar mass of dibutyl phthalate is calculated by adding the atomic masses of all the atoms in its formula. The molar mass of DBP is approximately 278.34 grams per mole. It is useful in determining the amount of DBP in a given sample.
Dibutyl Phthalate Boiling Point
DBP has a boiling point of around 340 degrees Celsius. This temperature indicates the point at which DBP changes from a liquid to a gas under standard atmospheric pressure. The boiling point of DBP is relatively high, making it suitable for applications where heat resistance is required.
Dibutyl Phthalate Melting Point
The melting point of DBP is about -35 degrees Celsius. It denotes the temperature at which DBP changes from a solid to a liquid. The low melting point of DBP allows it to be easily processed and used in various industries.
Dibutyl Phthalate Density g/mL
DBP has a density of approximately 1.05 grams per milliliter. Density represents the mass of a substance per unit volume. The density of DBP indicates its compactness and is important for understanding its physical properties and behavior in different environments.
Dibutyl Phthalate Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of DBP is approximately 278.34 grams per mole. It is calculated by adding the atomic weights of all the atoms present in one molecule of DBP. Molecular weight is significant for understanding the chemical and physical properties of DBP.
Dibutyl Phthalate Structure
The structure of DBP consists of two butyls (C4H9) groups attached to the two benzene rings of phthalic acid. The butyl groups act as substituents in the molecule, contributing to its overall structure and properties.
Dibutyl Phthalate Solubility
DBP is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. This solubility behavior makes DBP suitable for various applications, such as being used as a plasticizer in polymers or as a solvent in chemical processes.
| Appearance | Clear liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.05 g/mL |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Faint, sweet |
| Molar Mass | 278.34 g/mol |
| Density | 1.05 g/mL |
| Melting Point | -35 °C |
| Boiling Point | 340 °C |
| Flash Point | 160 °C |
| Water Solubility | Sparingly soluble |
| Solubility | Highly soluble in organic solvents |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.0001 mmHg |
| Vapor Density | 9.6 (air = 1) |
| pKa | 4.1 |
| pH | Neutral (7) |
Dibutyl Phthalate Safety and Hazards
DBP (DBP) poses certain safety concerns and hazards. It can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or comes into contact with the skin or eyes. DBP may cause irritation or sensitization of the skin and eyes. Prolonged or repeated exposure to DBP can have adverse effects on human health, including potential damage to the reproductive system. It is important to handle DBP with caution and use appropriate protective measures, such as gloves and goggles, when working with it. Proper ventilation should be ensured to minimize the risk of inhalation. Spills or leaks of DBP should be promptly and properly cleaned up to prevent environmental contamination.
| Hazard Symbols | Warning |
| Safety Description | Harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or in contact with skin or eyes. |
| UN IDs | UN 3082 |
| HS Code | 2917.32.0000 |
| Hazard Class | 9 (Miscellaneous dangerous substances) |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | May cause skin and eye irritation. Prolonged or repeated exposure may harm the reproductive system. |
Dibutyl Phthalate Synthesis Methods
Various methods can synthesize DBP (DBP).
One common method involves the esterification of phthalic anhydride with butanol. In this process, phthalic anhydride reacts with butanol in the presence of a catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or p-toluene sulfonic acid. The reaction proceeds through an esterification reaction, resulting in the formation of DBP.
Another method involves the reaction of phthalic acid with butanol. In this process, phthalic acid is first converted to its acid chloride derivative using a reagent like thionyl chloride or oxalyl chloride. It involves reacting the acid chloride with butanol in the presence of a base catalyst, such as pyridine or triethylamine, resulting in the production of DBP.
Another method involves the transesterification of dimethyl phthalate with n-butanol, where dimethyl phthalate reacts with n-butanol in the presence of a catalyst, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide, yielding DBP.
These synthesis methods allow for the production of DBP on an industrial scale. It is important to note that safety precautions and appropriate process controls are necessary during the synthesis to ensure the efficiency and quality of the final product.
Dibutyl Phthalate Uses
DBP (DBP) has various uses across industries. Here are some key applications of DBP:
- DBP serves as a plasticizer in the production of plastics, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), enhancing their flexibility, durability, and workability.
- Adhesives and sealants utilize DBP as a plasticizer, improving their adhesive properties and enhancing the flow and spreadability of these products.
- Cosmetics, including nail polishes, hair sprays, and lotions, contain DBP to maintain the desired consistency and improve the adherence and performance of these products.
- Inks and dyes incorporate DBP to enhance their solubility and stability, aiding in the dispersion of colorants and improving the overall quality of printing inks.
- Various industrial applications, such as lubricants, coatings, and hydraulic fluids, employ DBP for flexibility and viscosity control, contributing to the performance of these products.
- Pesticides and herbicides utilize DBP in their formulation to improve effectiveness and stability in agricultural applications.
- The production of medical devices, such as blood bags and tubing, incorporates DBP to provide flexibility and durability to these devices.
- Consumer goods like toys, footwear, and flexible films also contain DBP for various purposes.
It is important to note that while DBP has various industrial uses, there are regulatory restrictions and guidelines in place to ensure its safe handling and use in order to protect human health and the environment.
Questions:
Q: What is dibutyl phthalate?
A: DBP is a chemical compound commonly used as a plasticizer in various products, such as plastics, adhesives, and cosmetics.
Q: Where is formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene found?
A: Formaldehyde can be found in building materials, cosmetics, and household products. DBP is found in plastics, adhesives, and personal care products. Toluene is found in paints, solvents, and gasoline.
Q: Where can dibutyl phthalate be found?
A: DBP can be found in a wide range of products, including plastics, adhesives, cosmetics, and personal care items.
Q: DBP and butyl benzyl phthalate, what household cleaners?
A: DBP and butyl benzyl phthalate are not typically found in household cleaners as they are more commonly used in plastics and personal care products.
Q: Does opi have dibutyl phthalate?
A: OPI, a nail polish brand, does not use DBP in their nail polishes.
Q: Does LA Colors have dibutyl phthalate?
A: LA Colors, a cosmetics brand, does not use DBP in its products.
Q: Is Dibutyl Phthalate flammable?
A: DBP is not considered flammable under normal conditions.
Q: Is benzene soluble in dibutyl phthalate?
A: Benzene is generally soluble in DBP due to their similar non-polar nature.