Didecyl phthalate
[CAS# 84-77-5]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Hormone and endocrine-regulating drugs >> Estrogen and progestogen drugs
• Name: Didecyl phthalate
• Synonyms: NSC 15319; Vinycizer 105
• Molecular Formula: C₂₈H₄₆O₄
• Molecular Weight: 446.66
• CAS Registry Number: 84-77-5
• EC Number: 201-561-6
• SMILES: CCCCCCCCCCOC(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1C(=O)OCCCCCCCCCC

Properties

• Solubility: Insoluble (7.1E^-6 g/L) (25 °C), Calc.^*
• Density: 0.9675 g/cm³ (20 °C)^**
• Melting point: 140 °C^***
• Refractive index: 1.4799^****

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software V11.02 (©1994-2014 ACD/Labs)

^** "Hazardous Substances Data Bank" data were obtained from the National Library of Medicine (US)

^*** McCombie, Hamilton

^**** Murai, Koichi

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Didecyl phthalate (DDP) is a compound with important industrial and commercial applications. Its chemical formula is C28H46O4. It is synthesized by the esterification reaction of phthalic anhydride and didecyl alcohol or decanol and belongs to the phthalate family. The discovery of DDP stems from the efforts to find plasticizers and other high-performance industrial chemicals.

Chemically, didecyl phthalate has two long alkyl chains (didecyl groups) attached to the phthalate backbone. This molecular structure gives DDP excellent plasticizing properties, which can effectively improve the flexibility, durability and processability of polymers and resins. Its low volatility and high thermal stability make it suitable for a variety of industrial applications.

DDP is mainly used as a plasticizer in polymer formulations, especially in PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and other plastics, where increasing flexibility and mechanical properties is crucial. As a plasticizer, didecyl phthalate enhances the elasticity and processability of PVC products, which are used in cables, flooring, vinyl interiors and automotive parts. The addition of didecyl phthalate improves material performance while maintaining chemical resistance and durability.

In personal care products and cosmetics, didecyl phthalate is soluble in a variety of cosmetic formulations and used as an emollient and solvent. It helps improve the texture and spreadability of creams, lotions, and skin care products, enhancing sensory attributes without compromising product stability or safety.

In textiles and coatings, DDP can be used as a softener and lubricant to impart smoothness and flexibility to fibers and fabrics. Its application range extends to coatings and paints, improving film formation, adhesion, and abrasion resistance, thereby improving the overall performance and service life of the coated surface.

Due to concerns about the possible health and environmental effects of certain phthalate compounds, including DDP, regulatory agencies around the world have imposed restrictions and guidance on their use. Manufacturers should follow strict regulations to ensure safe disposal and protection of the environment throughout the product life cycle.

References

2021. The spatiotemporal distribution and potential risk assessment of 19 phthalate acid esters in wastewater treatment plants in China. Environmental science and pollution research international, 28(38).
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15365-5

1997. AQUATIC TOXICITY OF EIGHTEEN PHTHALATE ESTERS. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 16(5).
DOI: 10.1002/etc.5620160507

1985. Activated Sludge Biodegradation of 12 Commercial Phthalate Esters. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 49(2).
DOI: 10.1128/aem.49.2.443-445.1985