Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate
[CAS# 85073-19-4]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organic lithium
• Name: Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate
• Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₁₆LiO₃P
• Molecular Weight: 294.21
• CAS Registry Number: 85073-19-4
• SMILES: [Li+].CC1=CC(=C(C(=C1)C)C(=O)P(=O)(C2=CC=CC=C2)[O-])C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P280-P301+P312-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate is a specialized photoinitiator widely used in various photopolymerization processes, particularly for its effectiveness in free-radical polymerizations initiated by ultraviolet (UV) light. Its discovery is rooted in the ongoing research to improve polymerization efficiency, especially in the development of advanced materials such as coatings, adhesives, and 3D printing resins.

The compound's structure consists of a phenyl group, a 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl moiety, and a phosphinate group bonded to lithium. This unique arrangement allows it to absorb UV light, making it highly effective in generating free radicals under light exposure. Free radicals are essential to the initiation of polymerization, where monomers link together to form complex polymer structures. Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate offers a fast and efficient initiation process, allowing for high-speed curing and better control over the polymerization process.

In practical applications, this compound has become indispensable in fields that rely on UV-curing technologies. Its primary use is in UV-curable resins and coatings, where it enables rapid curing times, improving efficiency in manufacturing processes. Industries such as electronics, automotive, and medical devices benefit from its use, as it enhances the durability and performance of coatings and adhesives, ensuring better surface protection and long-lasting finishes.

Another major application area of Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate is in 3D printing, especially in stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) technologies. Here, it is used in the formulation of photosensitive resins, which solidify layer by layer under UV light to create complex 3D structures. The high reactivity of this photoinitiator allows for the precise and efficient creation of fine details in printed objects, making it valuable for producing intricate components with high resolution.

In addition to its use in coatings and 3D printing, Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate has also been employed in dental materials, where fast-curing resins are essential for restorative procedures. Its ability to generate radicals quickly and efficiently makes it an excellent choice for dental adhesives and fillers, improving the durability and aesthetic quality of dental work.

The versatility of Lithium Phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate lies in its ability to function effectively in different formulations and applications, making it a critical compound in the advancement of modern polymer chemistry.

References

2024. Development of a 3D printed liquid-core hydrogel platform for real-time carbon nanotube sensors. Emergent Materials, 7(5).
DOI: 10.1007/s42247-024-00818-7

2009. Photoinitiated polymerization of PEG-diacrylate with lithium phenyl-2,4,6-trimethylbenzoylphosphinate: polymerization rate and cytocompatibility. Biomaterials, 30(35).
DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2009.08.055

2016. Optimizing Photo-Encapsulation Viability of Heart Valve Cell Types in 3D Printable Composite Hydrogels. Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 44(7).
DOI: 10.1007/s10439-016-1619-1