Dicumyl peroxide

Dicumyl peroxide, also known as Bis(alpha, alpha-dimethylbenzyl)peroxide or DCP, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 80-43-3[1][2][4]. It is classified as an organic peroxide type F, solid, and is considered hazardous by the 2012 OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)[1].

Physical Properties and Specifications

Dicumyl peroxide appears as white crystals and has a melting point of 38°C to 41°C[2][4]. It has a molecular formula of C18H22O2 and an InChI Key of XMNIXWIUMCBBBL-UHFFFAOYSA-N[2][4]. The compound is available with a purity of 98% or higher, as indicated by its infrared spectrum and iodometric titration[2][4].

Hazardous Properties and Safety Precautions

Dicumyl peroxide is classified as a hazardous substance due to its potential to cause skin corrosion/irritation, serious eye damage/eye irritation, and reproductive toxicity[1]. It is also considered an organic peroxide, which can be dangerous due to its self-reactive properties[1]. The LD50 values for dicumyl peroxide are 4100 mg/kg (rat) and >2000 mg/kg (rat)[1]. It is recommended to handle the substance with caution, following appropriate safety protocols and wearing protective equipment.

Uses and Applications

Dicumyl peroxide is used as a crosslinker and vulcanizing agent for rubber and plastics applications[3]. It can also be used as an initiator and synergistic co-agent in various polymerization processes[3][5]. The compound is particularly useful for the crosslinking of natural rubber and synthetic rubbers, as well as polyolefins, and is known for its excellent scorch safety and one-step mixing capabilities under certain conditions[5].

Regulatory Information

Dicumyl peroxide is listed on the TSCA Inventory and is regulated by the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act[1]. It is also listed on various international inventories, including those in Canada, Europe, the Philippines, Japan, Australia, China, and Korea[1].

Availability and Purchasing

Dicumyl peroxide is available for purchase from various suppliers, including Thermo Scientific Chemicals, Sigma-Aldrich, and Nouryon, among others[2][4][5]. The prices and availability may vary depending on the supplier and the specific product characteristics.

Citations:

[1] https://www.fishersci.com/store/msds?countryCode=US&language=en&partNumber=AC349881000

[2] https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/349881000

[3] https://www.arkema.com/usa/en/product/organicperoxide/luperox/dicupr/

[4] https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/aldrich/329541

[5] https://www.nouryon.com/product/perkadox-bc-ff-dicumyl-peroxide-cas-80-43-3/