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