Di(3-methoxybutyl) peroxydicarbonate (CAS 52238-68-3), known as 过氧化二碳酸双(3-甲氧基丁酯) in Chinese and commercially branded as Initiator LQ-MOBPC, is a cutting-edge organic peroxide revolutionizing vinyl polymerization. With its unique balance of reactivity, safety, and efficiency, this compound has become indispensable in producing PVC, acrylics, and specialty polymers. Here’s everything you need to know about its chemistry, applications, handling, and market potential.
1. Chemical Identity and Key Properties
Di(3-methoxybutyl) peroxydicarbonate (C₁₂H₂₂O₈, MW 294.3 g/mol) belongs to the peroxy dicarbonate family. Its structure features two 3-methoxybutyl ester groups linked by a peroxydicarbonate bridge (–O–(C=O)–O–O–(C=O)–O–), enabling radical generation at moderate temperatures. Critical properties include:
Theoretical Active Oxygen: 5.44% – driving high initiation efficiency.
Physical State: Clear, low-viscosity liquid at room temperature.
Thermal Stability:
Half-life in chlorobenzene: 0.1 hr at 72°C, 1 hr at 57°C, 10 hr at 43°C.
Self-Accelerating Decomposition Temperature (SADT): 10°C – mandating sub-zero storage.
Safety Parameters:
Flash point: 139.1°C
Critical Temperature (Tem): 0°C; Control Temperature (Tc): -10°C.
2. Industrial Applications: Powering Polymer Synthesis
LQ-MOBPC’s controlled decomposition kinetics make it ideal for synthesizing thermoplastics with precise molecular weights and low residual monomers. Key uses include:
A. Vinyl Chloride Polymerization
Enables suspension/emulsion PVC production for pipes, films, and medical devices. Its 43–72°C activation range aligns perfectly with industrial reactor temperatures (50–70°C).
B. Acrylic Copolymerization
Drives methyl methacrylate (MMA) and acrylate copolymerization for adhesives, coatings, and impact modifiers. Delivers low polydispersity (Đ < 2.0) and high conversion rates.
C. Functional Monomer Systems
Used in vinylidene chloride (food packaging films) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer synthesis.
3. Handling and Safety Protocol
Extreme caution is required due to its thermally unstable peroxide bond:
Storage: At -20°C to -10°C in vented containers, away from light and ignition sources.
Incompatible Materials: Avoid contact with:
Reducing agents (amines, metal ions)
Acids/bases (risk of explosive decomposition)
Heavy metals (copper, iron) and their salts.
Decomposition Response: For fires, use CO₂ or dry chemical extinguishers followed by water spray to prevent reignition.
Shelf Life: 3 months under recommended conditions; discard if discolored or precipitated.
4. Technical Specifications and Quality Control
Commercial LQ-MOBPC must meet stringent benchmarks:
Parameter Specification Test Method
Appearance Clear, colorless liquid Visual
Assay (Purity) 49.0–51.0% HPLC/iodometric titration
Hydrolyzable Chloride ≤500 mg/kg ASTM E256
Active Oxygen Content ≥5.40% Ph Eur 2.5.38
Data sourced from manufacturer technical sheets.
5. Supply Chain and Market Dynamics
China dominates production, with key players like:
Shandong Do Sender Chemicals Co.,Ltd. (shandong, China): Specializes in high-purity batches for export.
Global demand is rising at 6.2% CAGR (2024–2030), driven by construction and packaging sectors.
6. Regulatory and Compliance Landscape
CAS Number: 52238-68-3
UN Number: 3115 (Organic peroxide, Type E).
Transport Classification: Class 5.2 (Oxidizing Agent), requiring "dangerous goods" labeling.
Customs HS Code: 2909 60 0000 (peroxycarbonates; VAT 17%, MFN duty 5.5%).
7. Future Outlook: Innovations and Sustainability
Research focuses on:
Encapsulation Technologies: Embedding peroxides in silica or polymer matrices to enhance safety and dosing precision.
Hybrid Initiator Systems: Combining with azo-compounds for tailored kinetics in block copolymer synthesis.
Green Chemistry: Developing bio-based 3-methoxybutanol routes to reduce carbon footprint.
Conclusion: Why Di(3-Methoxybutyl) Peroxydicarbonate Dominates Polymer Chemistry
Di(3-methoxybutyl) peroxydicarbonate sets the gold standard for low-temperature vinyl polymerization. Its unparalleled ability to generate radicals uniformly at 40–70°C ensures high-yield, energy-efficient production of PVC, acrylics, and copolymers. While its reactivity demands rigorous safety protocols (–20°C storage, impurity avoidance), advancements in stabilization and delivery systems will cement its role in next-generation polymer plants.
Keywords: Di(3-methoxybutyl) peroxydicarbonate, 过氧化二碳酸双(3-甲氧基丁酯), CAS 52238-68-3, vinyl polymerization initiator, organic peroxide, PVC production, peroxydicarbonate synthesis, polymer chemistry, safety protocol for peroxides.