Dibutyl phthalate

CAS 84-74-2C16H22O4278.34 g/mol

Dibutyl phthalate is a phthalate ester that is the diester obtained by the formal condensation of the carboxy groups of phthalic acid with two molecules of butan-1-ol. Although used extensively as a plasticiser, it is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant that poses a risk to humans. It has a role as a metabolite, a teratogenic agent, an EC 3.2.1.20 (alpha-glucosidase) inhibitor, an environmental contaminant and a plasticiser. It is a phthalate ester and a diester. It is functionally related to a butan-1-ol.

IUPAC: dibutyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate

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Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical and chemical properties
Melting Point	-31 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point	644 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density	1.049 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
Solubility	less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Flash Point	315 °F (NTP, 1992)
Vapor Pressure	1 mmHg at 297 °F ; 1.1 mmHg at 302 °F (NTP, 1992)
Appearance	N-butyl phthalate is a colorless oily liquid. It is insoluble in water. The primary hazard is the threat to the environment. Immediate steps should be taken to limit its spread to the environment. Since it is a liquid it can easily penetrate the soil and contaminate groundwater and nearby streams. It is combustible though it may take some effort to ignite. It is used in paints and plastics and as a reaction media for chemical reactions.