Perodox® 23 - Tert-Butyl Peroxyneodecanoate

tert-Butyl peroxyneodecanoate (TBPND) is an organic peroxide compound widely used as a radical initiator in polymer chemistry. Its primary applications include: serving as an initiator for the (co)polymerization of ethylene, vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, (meth)acrylate, and diethylene glycol diallyl carbonate-based optical monomers; acting as a low-temperature initiator in tubular processes for producing low-density polyethylene (LDPE); functioning as a curing agent for unsaturated polyester resins (UPR); and initiating polymerization of vinyl chloride, styrene, and their copolymers

TBPND requires careful handling due to its peroxide nature. Critical safety parameters include:

Self-Accelerating Decomposition Temperature (SADT) of 15-20°C;

Alarm Temperature of 5°C;

UN Number 3115 (or 3103) with Hazard Class 5.2 (Organic Peroxide).

Handling requires personal protective equipment, storage away from heat/ignition sources, and avoidance of contact with acids, bases, and reducing agents.

The pure form is shock sensitive and detonable when rapidly heated.

The half-life data indicates its decomposition kinetics: 10-hour half-life at 46°C; 1-hour half-life at 64°C; 0.1-hour half-life at 84°C. The activation energy is 115.47 kJ/mol. Upon thermal decomposition, it primarily yields tert-butyl alcohol, neodecanoic acid, methane, and acetone. This predictable decomposition makes it suitable for controlled polymerization reactions

TBPND must be stored in original, tightly sealed containers made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar compatible materials. Storage temperature should be maintained between -30°C and -10°C in dedicated cold storage facilities to prevent crystallization and maintain stability. It should be kept away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible materials. When stored correctly, its shelf life is typically 3-6 months

Standard packaging includes 20kg or 30-liter HDPE drums. Transportation requires special permits for sea and land freight, while rail and air transport are generally prohibited. Packages must be clearly labeled as organic peroxide. During transportation, temperature control is critical, and exposure to high temperatures during loading/unloading must be minimized

Commercial TBPND is typically available in purity grades of 74-76%, often diluted with solvents like iso-dodecane (approximately 25%) to reduce hazard risks. The active oxygen content generally ranges between 4.85% and 4.98%, with a theoretical active oxygen content of 6.55%. Specifications usually limit tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide (TBHP) content to a maximum of 0.10%

Compared to benzoyl peroxide, TBPND offers higher solubility in aliphatic solvents, less odoriferous decomposition products, and better suitability for specific applications like LDPE production. However, it has lower thermal stability and requires stricter temperature control. Its decomposition products are less likely to cause discoloration in final polymers, making it preferable for applications where color stability is important

For skin contact, wash immediately with plenty of water. For eye contact, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. If inhaled, move to fresh air. In case of ingestion, rinse mouth and do NOT induce vomiting. For environmental concerns, avoid release into environment as it may be harmful to aquatic life with long-term effects. Contain spills with non-combustible absorbent material and dispose according to local hazardous waste regulations

Yes, TBPND is often used in combination with other peroxides like tert-Butyl peroxyvalerate (TBPV), tert-Butyl peroxy 2-ethylhexanoate (TBPEH), and tert-Butyl peroxybenzoate (TBPB) to achieve specific polymerization kinetics and temperature profiles. Such combinations are common in LDPE production to optimize the reaction efficiency throughout different temperature zones

Upon thermal decomposition, TBPND primarily yields tert-butyl alcohol, neodecanoic acid, methane, and acetone. These decomposition products are generally less odorous compared to those from other peroxides like benzoyl peroxide, which is beneficial for applications where odor control is important. The predictable decomposition profile allows for precise control over polymerization reactions