BIPB (Bis(tert-butylperoxyisopropyl)benzene) is a critical organic peroxide widely used as a crosslinking agent in polymer industries. Despite sharing the same molecular formula (C₂₀H₃₄O₄), CAS 25155-25-3 and CAS 2212-81-9 represent distinct chemical isomers with divergent properties and applications. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
🔬 1. Chemical Structure and Isomerism
CAS 25155-25-3:
Systematic Name: 1,4-Bis(2-(tert-butylperoxy)propan-2-yl)benzene.
Isomer Type: Para-isomer (1,4-disubstituted benzene ring).
Purity Focus: Minimizes toxic ortho-isomers, reducing health risks.
CAS 2212-81-9:
Systematic Name: 1,3-Bis(2-(tert-butylperoxy)propan-2-yl)benzene.
Isomer Type: Meta-isomer (1,3-disubstituted benzene ring) sold as an isomer mixture.
Commercial Aliases: Marketed as Perkadox® 14S or "Odorless DCP".
⚖️ 2. Physical Properties
Property CAS 25155-25-3 CAS 2212-81-9
Melting Point 44–48°C 43–49°C
Density 1.63 g/mL (25°C) 0.974 g/mL
Solubility Soluble in alcohols, ethers 40 μg/L in water (20°C)
Odor Profile Low-odor formulations Explicitly "Odorless"
🏭 3. Industrial Applications
CAS 25155-25-3:
Primarily used as a radical initiator for polymerization.
Functions in luminescent reactions and as a rubber plasticizer.
CAS 2212-81-9:
Dominant crosslinker for:
✅ Chlorinated polyethylene (CPE)
✅ Ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM)
✅ Silicone rubbers.
Key Advantage: Requires ~33% less dosage than conventional DCP (dicumyl peroxide) for equivalent efficacy.
⚠️ 4. Safety and Regulatory Profiles
Parameter CAS 25155-25-3 CAS 2212-81-9
Risk Phrases R8 (Fire hazard), R36/37 (Eye/respiratory irritation) R7 (Fire hazard), R36 (Eye irritation)
Safety Labels Toxic (Class Xn), Oxidizer (Class O) Irritant (Xi), Oxidizer (O)
Transport Code UN 3106 (Class 5.2) UN 3106 (Class 5.2)
⚠️ Both require strict storage away from combustibles and use with PPE (gloves/goggles).
💎 5. Commercial and Functional Distinctions
Toxicity:
CAS 25155-25-3: Toxicity linked to residual ortho-isomers; refined grades minimize this.
CAS 2212-81-9: Lower acute toxicity; preferred in odor-sensitive applications (e.g., food-grade rubber).
Performance:
CAS 2212-81-9 offers superior scorch safety and processing stability in rubber vulcanization.
💎 Conclusion: Choosing the Right BIPB
While both compounds fall under the BIPB umbrella, their structural isomerism dictates specialized uses:
Opt for CAS 25155-25-3 for polymerization initiation and high-purity applications.
Choose CAS 2212-81-9 for efficient, odorless crosslinking in rubber and plastic manufacturing.
💡 Pro Tip: Verify isomer composition in technical datasheets—meta-isomer dominance defines CAS 2212-81-9’s performance.
Understanding these distinctions ensures optimal material selection, regulatory compliance, and operational safety. For sourcing details, refer to suppliers like MedChemExpress (CAS 25155-25-3) or J&K Scientific (CAS 2212-81-9).