Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
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Description
What is Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)?
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is a phthalate ester derived from phthalic acid derivatives and butanol. It belongs to the broader family of phthalate plasticizers, which formulators use to modify the flexibility, workability, and processing characteristics of polymeric materials.
Manufacturers and formulators have used DBP across various industrial applications, including polymers, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and printing-related formulations. Its plasticizing properties make it suitable for selected formulations that require improved flexibility and processing performance.
Key Features
- Functions as a plasticizer in selected polymer and industrial formulations.
- Helps formulators modify flexibility in compatible systems.
- Supports selected PVC, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and polymer applications.
- Provides a phthalate-based plasticizing option for suitable formulations.
- Can influence formulation processing depending on the polymer and formulation system.
- Requires evaluation against the specific formulation, end use, and applicable regulatory requirements.
The role of DBP in a formulation depends on the polymer system, concentration, processing conditions, compatibility requirements, and applicable regulatory restrictions.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
| Product Name | Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) |
| Chemical Name | Dibutyl Phthalate |
| Other Names | Di-n-Butyl Phthalate; n-Butyl Phthalate; Butyl Phthalate; Phthalic Acid Dibutyl Ester; Dibutyl 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate |
| CAS Number | 84-74-2 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₂₂O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 278.34 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to faint-yellow oily liquid / Colorless, hygroscopic liquid |
| Odour / Taste | Odourless with a sharp sweet taste |
| Purity | Min 99.80% |
| Moisture Content | Max 0.05% |
| Relative Density | 1.118 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.118 |
| Solubility in Water | Slightly soluble |
| Melting Point | -6.5°C |
| Crystallizing Point | -10.45°C |
How Dibutyl Phthalate DBP functions as a plasticizer in polymer systems?
DBP vs DOP vs DOA – Comparison
| Parameter | DBP | DOP | DOA |
| Chemical name | Dibutyl Phthalate | Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate | Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Adipate |
| Chemical family | Phthalate ester | Phthalate ester | Adipate ester |
| Molecular weight | 278 | 390 | 370 |
| Specific gravity at 27°C | 1.030–1.041 | 0.980–0.986 | 0.922–0.926 |
| Viscosity at 20°C | 23 ± 2 cP | 82 ± 2 cP | 14 ± 2 cP |
| Boiling point | 346 ± 3°C | 231°C at 7 mbar | 335°C |
| Flash point | 189°C | 218°C | Not specified in provided sheet |
| Pour point | Not specified | −47°C | −75°C |
| Ester value | 376–394 mg KOH/g | 284–290 mg KOH/g | 302–306 mg KOH/g |
| Moisture | 0.10% max. | 0.10% max. | 0.10% max. |
| Ester content | 99.50% min. | 99.50% min. | 99.50% min. |
| Plasticizing efficiency | 0.86 | Not specified in the provided sheet | 0.93 |
| Primary positioning in TDS | PVC, PVC copolymers; coatings and cellulose-based systems | PVC and PVC copolymers | PVC and PVC copolymers |
| Low-temperature positioning | Lower freezing point than comparable DBP according to TDS | Pour point −47°C | Strong low-temperature flexibility positioning; pour point −75°C |
| Shelf life | 24 months | 24 months | 24 months |
Plasticizer Selection Guide: Which Plasticizer should I use for my application?
Applications of Dibutyl Phthalate
DBP applications vary according to the polymer, formulation chemistry, regulatory requirements, and desired performance characteristics.
Plastics & Polymer Formulations
Manufacturers can use DBP as a plasticizing component in selected polymer systems to modify flexibility and processing characteristics.
PVC and Vinyl Formulations
Manufacturers have used phthalate plasticizers in flexible PVC formulations. Formulators should evaluate DBP according to the specific PVC system and the regulatory requirements that apply to the finished product.
Adhesives & Sealants
Formulators may incorporate DBP into selected adhesive and sealant systems when they require plasticization and flexibility modification.
Coatings
Coating formulators can use DBP as a plasticizing component in certain systems, depending on resin compatibility and formulation requirements.
Printing Inks
Selected printing ink systems use plasticizers to influence flexibility and film properties. Ink formulators should assess DBP compatibility with the ink chemistry and intended end use.
Industrial Formulations
Manufacturers may evaluate DBP in other industrial formulations that require a compatible plasticizing component.
Advantages
The potential formulation benefits of DBP depend on the specific polymer and application.
Plasticization
DBP can function as a plasticizing component in suitable polymer systems.
Flexibility Modification
Its use can help modify the flexibility characteristics of compatible polymer formulations.
Formulation Versatility
DBP can be considered across selected plastics, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and related industrial formulations.
Processing Considerations
Plasticizers can influence the processing behavior of polymer systems, although the actual effect depends on the complete formulation.
Formulation Optimization
DBP can be evaluated alongside other plasticizers when formulators are optimizing flexibility, compatibility, processing, and cost.
Packaging
- 220 Kgs Sealed Intact Barrel
Storage & Handling
DBP should be handled as an industrial chemical and stored according to the recommendations provided in its current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and supplier documentation.
General good-practice considerations include:
- Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
- Store the material in a suitable, well-maintained chemical storage area.
- Minimize unnecessary exposure during handling.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment based on the SDS and workplace risk assessment.
- Follow applicable chemical-handling procedures and consult the current SDS for detailed storage, incompatibilities, exposure controls, and emergency measures.
Industries Served
Dibutyl Phthalate may serve manufacturers and formulators across several industrial sectors:
- Plastics & Polymer Manufacturing – Manufacturers use DBP in plasticized polymer and flexible material formulations.
- PVC & Vinyl Products – Producers use DBP in selected flexible PVC applications, subject to applicable regulatory requirements.
- Paints & Coatings – Formulators incorporate DBP where the formulation requires compatible plasticization.
- Adhesives & Sealants – Manufacturers use DBP in selected formulations to modify flexibility.
- Printing Inks – Ink manufacturers incorporate DBP into certain systems that require plasticizing components.
- Specialty Chemical Manufacturing – Producers use DBP as a raw material in selected phthalate-based formulations.
- Chemical Processing – Chemical manufacturers use DBP as a plasticizer raw material in downstream formulations.
Why Choose Chemex Chemicals?
Chemex Chemicals is an importer, distributor, and supplier of industrial and specialty chemical raw materials in India. With operations in the chemical industry since 1986, the company supplies raw materials to a wide range of industrial sectors.
For buyers sourcing Dibutyl Phthalate, Chemex Chemicals provides:
- Reliable industrial chemical sourcing
- Product and technical documentation
- Enquiry-based commercial support
- Supply-chain and logistics coordination
- Product availability confirmation
- Technical information for formulation evaluation
- Support for industrial and bulk requirements
- Assistance throughout the sourcing process
Frequently Asked Questions About Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
What is Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)?
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is a phthalate ester that manufacturers use primarily as a plasticizer in industrial and polymer formulations.
What are the main applications of DBP?
Manufacturers use DBP in selected PVC, plastics, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and printing ink formulations.
What does DBP do in PVC formulations?
DBP improves flexibility, workability, and processing characteristics in compatible PVC systems.
Is DBP used in coatings?
Yes. Formulators use DBP as a plasticizing component in selected coating systems.
Is DBP used in adhesives and sealants?
Yes. DBP provides plasticization and can support compatibility within suitable adhesive and sealant formulations.
Is DBP used in printing inks?
Yes. Ink manufacturers use DBP in selected formulations where they require a plasticizing effect.
What is the difference between DBP and DOP?
DBP and DOP are different phthalate plasticizers with distinct molecular structures and formulation characteristics. Their performance can vary depending on the polymer and end-use system.
Can DBP directly replace DOP?
No. Formulators should evaluate any DBP-to-DOP substitution through compatibility, dosage, performance, processing, and regulatory testing.
What factors determine the suitability of DBP?
Polymer compatibility, formulation requirements, processing conditions, intended end use, and applicable regulations determine whether DBP suits a particular application.
How can I enquire about DBP from Chemex Chemicals?
Contact Chemex Chemicals with your required quantity, application, grade requirements, packaging preference, and delivery location. Our team can review your requirements and assist with the appropriate product details.
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