Di-n-butyl Peroxydicarbonate (BPC, CAS 16215-49-9), a high-efficiency low-temperature initiator, is critical for optimizing vinyl chloride polymerization and specialty resin synthesis. With the molecular formula C₁₀H₁₈O₆ and molecular weight of 234.2 g/mol, this organic peroxide enables precise molecular weight control while minimizing defects like "fish eyes" in PVC, LDPE, and acrylic production . Its theoretical active oxygen content of 6.83% and decomposition temperature as low as 49°C make it indispensable for energy-efficient industrial processes .
Technical Specifications & Physicochemical Properties
Parameter
Value
Physical State
Clear liquid (50% solution in inert solvents)
Active Oxygen Content
3.41% (typical commercial grade)
Theoretical Active Oxygen
6.83%
UN Transport Class
UN 3115 (Type E organic peroxide)
Critical Safety Parameters:
- Self-Accelerating Decomposition Temperature (SADT): 5°C
- Half-Life (t₁/₂): 10h at 49°C, 1h at 65°C, 0.1h at 83°C
- Storage Stability: ≤3 months below -15°C; emergency threshold: -5°C
Decomposition Byproducts: Carbon dioxide + n-butanol — recyclable in solvent recovery systems .
Industrial Applications Driving Demand
1. PVC Suspension Polymerization
As a primary low-temperature initiator, BPC enables:
- Energy Savings: Operates at 45–60°C (vs. 70–90°C for traditional peroxides), reducing cooling costs by 30% .
- Defect Reduction: ≤25% fewer "fish eyes" in rigid PVC pipes by optimizing nucleation kinetics .
- Co-polymer Compatibility: Efficient initiation for vinyl chloride/acrylate blends in adhesive resins .
2. Specialty Polymer Synthesis
- Acrylic Casting: Initiates methyl methacrylate (MMA) polymerization at 50°C with >95% monomer conversion .
- Expandable Polystyrene (EPS): Controls cell structure uniformity in foam products .
Safety Protocols: Non-Negotiable Handling Rules
BPC’s extremely low SADT (5°C) mandates stringent protocols:
Storage: ≤-15°C in sealed containers; isolate from acids, metals, and reducing agents .
PPE Requirements: Butyl rubber gloves + full-face shields during handling .
Emergency Response:
Fire: Use alcohol-resistant foam — water jets trigger explosive decomposition .
Spills: Absorb with inert materials (vermiculite/sand); store in ventilated plastic containers .
⚠️ Regulatory Compliance:
GHS Classification: H242 (Heating may cause fire) .
- Transport Restrictions: Prohibited in air transport; requires temperature-controlled vehicles (-20°C) for road shipping .
Future Innovations & Sustainability Trends
Microencapsulation Technology: Silica-based coatings to stabilize BPC at 0°C (pilot trials, 2026) .
Bio-Solvent Systems: Replacing phthalate carriers with soybean oil derivatives to reduce toxicity .
AI-Driven Storage Sensors: Real-time temperature/pressure monitoring during logistics .
Di-n-butyl Peroxydicarbonate (CAS 16215-49-9) remains pivotal for sustainable polymer manufacturing, balancing low-temperature reactivity with evolving safety standards.