Uses
Diisodecyl Phthalate is a phthalate plasticizer. Not only are pthalate plasticizers widely used in the plastics industry, but they have also been detected in soft drinks, pharmaceuticals and food products
Definition
ChEBI: Diisodecyl phthalate is a phthalate ester and a diester. Used as plasticizer for polyvinyl chloride in calendered film, coated fabrics, building wire jackets, wire and cable extrusion, and other applications.
Preparation
Diisodecyl phthalate is prepared from propylene and butenes through an oligomerisation process forming hydrocarbons with 8 to 15 carbon atoms. After distillation (in view of obtaining nonene), oxonation forms aldehydes with one more carbon atom ("isodecanal"). The latter are hydrogenated and distilled to form monohydric alcohols (mainly C10). These are reacted with phthalic anhydride (PA). The first reaction step, alcoholysis of PA to give the monoester, is rapid and goes to completion. By charging in excess alcohol and by removing the water which is formed, the equilibrium can be shifted almost completely towards the products side.
General Description
Diisodecyl phthalate appears as colorless liquid. May float or sink inwater. (USCG, 1999)
Air & Water Reactions
bis(8-methylnonyl) phthalate is insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
bis(8-methylnonyl) phthalate is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides. Can generate electrostatic charges. [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980. p. 250].
Health Hazard
No symptoms reported for any rate of exposure.
Fire Hazard
bis(8-methylnonyl) phthalate is combustible.
Toxics Screening Level
The initial threshold screening level (ITSL) for diisodecyl ester phthalate 30 is μg/m3
based on an annual averaging time.
