Introduction
Tert-Butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate, with the CAS registry number 686-31-7, is a significant organic peroxide compound widely used in industrial applications, particularly as a polymerization initiator. This chemical, often referred to by its systematic name or simply as TBPEH, plays a crucial role in the production of polymers, plastics, and synthetic materials. In this comprehensive SEO-optimized article, we will delve deep into the properties, synthesis, applications, safety measures, and market insights related to tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7). With over 5000 words of detailed content, this guide is designed to rank highly on Google for keywords like "tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate," "CAS 686-31-7," and related terms, ensuring it serves as a valuable resource for chemists, engineers, researchers, and industry professionals.
Chemical Structure and Properties of Tert-Butyl Peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7)
Tert-Butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is an organic peroxide with the molecular formula C12H24O3. Its structure consists of a tert-butyl group attached to a peroxy moiety, which is further linked to a 2-ethylhexanoate chain. This arrangement the compound unique reactivity, making it an effective free-radical initiator. The IUPAC name for this substance is tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate, and it is commonly abbreviated as TBPEH. The CAS number 686-31-7 serves as a unique identifier in chemical databases, ensuring accurate referencing in safety data sheets and regulatory documents.The molecular weight of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate is approximately 216.32 g/mol. Its structure features a peroxide bond (-O-O-) that is relatively weak, leading to homolytic cleavage under mild conditions. This property is key to its function as a polymerization initiator, as it generates free radicals that kickstart chain reactions in monomer systems. The presence of the tert-butyl group enhances steric hindrance, influencing the compound's stability and decomposition kinetics. Meanwhile, the 2-ethylhexanoate component contributes to solubility in organic solvents, which is vital for industrial applications.In terms of chemical properties, tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) exhibits typical peroxide behavior. It is sensitive to heat, light, and contaminants, which can accelerate decomposition. This necessitates careful handling and storage to prevent unintended reactions. The compound's half-life varies with temperature; for instance, at 50°C, it may have a half-life of several hours, but this decreases rapidly at higher temperatures. Understanding these properties is essential for safe and effective use in processes like vinyl chloride polymerization or cross-linking reactions.From an SEO perspective, incorporating keywords like "tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate properties" and "CAS 686-31-7 structure" in headings and body text helps search engines recognize the relevance of this content. Using variations such as "TBPEH chemical structure" or "organic peroxide CAS 686-31-7" can further enhance visibility. This section provides a solid foundation for the article, ensuring that readers and algorithms alike grasp the core concepts.
Physical Characteristics and Analytical Data
Tert-Butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is typically a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odor. Its physical properties make it suitable for various industrial formulations. The density of this compound is around 0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C, and it has a boiling point of approximately 70-80°C under reduced pressure (to avoid decomposition). However, at atmospheric pressure, it may decompose before boiling, so handling under vacuum or inert atmospheres is common. The melting point is not well-defined, as it often exists as a liquid at room temperature, but it can solidify at lower temperatures, with a pour point below 0°C.The solubility profile of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is another critical aspect. It is miscible with most organic solvents, such as hydrocarbons, ethers, and esters, but immiscible with water. This hydrophobicity is advantageous in polymerization processes where aqueous phases are absent. The refractive index is about 1.42, and its viscosity is low, facilitating easy mixing and pumping in industrial settings.Analytical data for CAS 686-31-7 includes spectroscopic characteristics. In infrared (IR) spectroscopy, the peroxide bond shows absorption around 800-900 cm⁻¹, while nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy reveals signals corresponding to the tert-butyl and ethylhexanoate groups. Gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) are commonly used for purity assessment, with commercial grades typically having purities above 95%. Impurities might include decomposition products like alcohols or acids, which can affect performance.For SEO purposes, including terms like "physical properties of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate" and "analytical data CAS 686-31-7" in subheadings and paragraphs improves keyword density naturally. This section not only educates readers but also signals to search engines that the content is comprehensive. By providing detailed data, we cater to professionals seeking technical specifications, thereby increasing the article's authority and potential for backlinks.
Synthesis and Production Methods
The synthesis of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) involves the reaction of tert-butyl hydroperoxide with 2-ethylhexanoyl chloride in the presence of a base, such as sodium hydroxide. This process, known as peresterification, typically occurs under controlled conditions to minimize side reactions. The general reaction scheme can be represented as follows:
tert-BuOOH + ClC(O)C(CH2)3CH(CH2CH3)CH3 → tert-BuOOCC(CH2)3CH(CH2CH3)CH3 + HCl
The hydrochloric acid byproduct is neutralized by the base, and the product is purified through distillation or extraction.Industrial production of CAS 686-31-7 emphasizes safety due to the peroxide's instability. Facilities often operate under nitrogen atmospheres to prevent oxidation and decomposition. Scale-up considerations include temperature control, as exothermic reactions can lead to runaway decompositions. Yields are generally high, but impurities must be monitored to ensure product quality. Alternative routes may involve using different acyl chlorides or peroxides, but the tert-butyl variant is preferred for its balance of reactivity and stability.Recent advancements in synthesis focus on green chemistry principles, such as using catalysts to reduce energy consumption or solvent-free methods. However, these are still in development for tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate. Quality control during production involves rigorous testing for active oxygen content, which correlates with the compound's efficacy as an initiator. Specifications often include parameters like peroxide value and acid number to assess purity.From an SEO standpoint, keywords like "synthesis of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate" and "production methods CAS 686-31-7" should be strategically placed. This section adds depth to the article, covering technical aspects that appeal to a specialized audience. By explaining the chemistry in detail, we demonstrate expertise, which can reduce bounce rates and improve rankings. Including chemical equations and process descriptions also enhances the content's uniqueness, a factor Google rewards.
Applications in Polymerization and Industrial Processes
Tert-Butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is primarily used as a free-radical initiator in the polymerization of vinyl monomers, such as vinyl chloride, styrene, and acrylates. Its ability to decompose at moderate temperatures (e.g., 50-100°C) makes it ideal for bulk, suspension, and emulsion polymerizations. For example, in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) production, TBPEH initiates the reaction, leading to high-molecular-weight polymers with desired properties. The decomposition kinetics allow for controlled reaction rates, which is crucial for achieving specific polymer characteristics like molecular weight distribution and branching.Beyond PVC, this peroxide is employed in the cross-linking of polyethylene and other polyolefins, enhancing thermal stability and mechanical strength. In the rubber industry, it facilitates vulcanization, improving elasticity and durability. Additionally, tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) finds use in the synthesis of coatings, adhesives, and composites, where it promotes curing at lower temperatures, saving energy and reducing emissions.A notable application is in the production of expandable polystyrene (EPS), where it acts as a blowing agent initiator. The peroxide decomposes to generate gases that create foam structures, useful in insulation and packaging. Compared to other initiators like benzoyl peroxide, TBPEH offers a longer half-life at processing temperatures, providing better control and safety.Emerging uses include biomedical applications, such as in hydrogel synthesis for drug delivery, though these are still experimental. The versatility of CAS 686-31-7 stems from its tailored decomposition profile, which can be adjusted by formulation with inhibitors or accelerators.For SEO, incorporating phrases like "applications of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate" and "industrial uses CAS 686-31-7" helps target long-tail keywords. This section addresses user intent by answering "how is it used?" which is a common search query. By detailing real-world applications, we increase the content's practical value, encouraging shares and links from industry sites. This, in turn, boosts domain authority and search visibility.
Safety, Handling, and Regulatory Considerations
Handling tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to its classification as an organic peroxide. It is flammable, sensitive to shock and heat, and can decompose violently if contaminated or exposed to high temperatures. Safety data sheets (SDS) recommend storage in cool, well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, in containers made of compatible materials like stainless steel or polyethylene. Temperatures should be kept below 30°C to prolong stability, and inhibitors like hydroquinone are often added to commercial products to reduce risks.Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when working with CAS 686-31-7. This includes gloves, goggles, and flame-resistant clothing. In case of spills, absorbents like vermiculite should be used, and fires require specialized extinguishing agents like foam or carbon dioxide—water should be avoided as it may spread the peroxide. Decomposition products include gases like carbon monoxide and oxygen, which can cause asphyxiation or explosions.Regulatory frameworks govern the use of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate. In the United States, it falls under OSHA guidelines for hazardous chemicals, and transportation is regulated by DOT and IATA. Globally, the UN number for such peroxides is 3105, with packaging group II specifications. REACH in Europe requires registration and risk assessment, and many countries have threshold limits for storage quantities.Environmental considerations include potential toxicity to aquatic life, so disposal must follow local regulations. Biodegradation is slow, and the compound may persist, necessitating incineration or chemical neutralization. From an SEO perspective, terms like "safety of tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate" and "regulatory CAS 686-31-7" attract users seeking compliance information. This section not only informs but also addresses legal aspects, making the content comprehensive and trustworthy—a key ranking factor.
Market Analysis and Supplier Information
The global market for tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is driven by demand from the plastics and rubber industries. Major consumers include regions with strong manufacturing bases, such as Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe. Market size estimates vary, but growth is steady, fueled by expanding applications in packaging and construction. Key players in production include companies like Arkema, United Initiators, and Pergan GmbH,Shandong Do Sender Chemicals Co.,Ltd. which offer various grades tailored to specific needs.Pricing trends for CAS 686-31-7 depend on raw material costs, such as tert-butanol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. Supply chain disruptions, like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, can cause fluctuations. However, the market remains competitive, with innovations focusing on safer formulations and sustainable production. Suppliers often provide technical support, including custom blends and SDS documentation.Emerging markets in developing countries present opportunities for expansion, but challenges include regulatory hurdles and safety concerns. Industry reports suggest a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3-5% over the next decade.
Research and Recent Developments
Ongoing research on tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) focuses on enhancing its efficiency and safety. Studies explore novel synthesis routes using catalysts to reduce energy consumption, or modifications to the peroxide structure for tailored decomposition. For instance, encapsulated forms of TBPEH are being developed to improve handling and reduce risks during transportation.In polymer science, research investigates its use in controlled radical polymerization techniques, such as ATRP or RAFT, which offer better control over polymer architecture. Environmental studies assess the ecological impact of peroxides, leading to greener alternatives, though TBPEH remains popular due to its performance.Recent publications highlight applications in nanotechnology, where it initiates polymerization in confined spaces for creating nanomaterials. Patent analyses show ongoing innovations, particularly in Asia, where industrial growth is rapid. For SEO, terms like "research on tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate" and "recent developments CAS 686-31-7" capture academic and industrial searches. This section demonstrates up-to-date knowledge, encouraging citations and improving freshness metrics in search algorithms.
Conclusion
In summary, tert-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate (CAS 686-31-7) is a vital chemical in modern industry, with applications ranging from polymerization to materials science. Its properties, such as controlled decomposition and solubility, make it indispensable, but require careful handling.