Diisobutyl phthalate

Chemical properties

clear liquid

The Uses of Diisobutyl phthalate

Diisobutyl Phthalate is a Dialkyl phthalate ester phthalate plasticizer which can be used as a substitute of dibutyl phthalate. Diisobutyl Phthalate as well as other phthalates have genotoxic effects and studies shown an increase in its monoester metabolite in human urine over the years.

Definition

ChEBI: A phthalate ester that is the diester obtained by the formal condensation of the carboxy groups of phthalic acid with two molecules of isobutanol.

Production Methods

Diisobutyl phthalate is manufactured by esterifying phthalic anhydride and isobutanol in the presence of sulfuric acid.

General Description

Diisobutyl phthalate has been used as a solvent-blender-diluent but is now of little interest since Diethyl phthalate is available in an odourless grade and at a very low cost.

General Description

Oily colorless liquid with a slight ester odor. Denser than water. Insoluble in water. Low toxicity.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Diisobutyl phthalate reacts with acids to liberate heat along with isobutyl alcohol and phthalic acid. May react sufficiently exothermically with strong oxidizing acids to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by interaction with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing with alkali metals and hydrides. Can generate electrostatic charges in handling [Handling Chemicals Safely, 1980. p. 250].

Health Hazard

Vapors from very hot material may irritate eyes and produce headache, drowsiness, and convulsions.

Fire Hazard

Diisobutyl phthalate is combustible.

Safety Profile

Moderately toxic by intraperitoneal route. Mdly toxic by ingestion and skin contact. Experimental teratogenic and reproductive effects. Combustible when exposed to heat or flame. To fight fire, use foam, CO2, dry chemical. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes.