Sustainable Material Development with DBU Phthalate (CAS 97884-98-5)

admin 3月 27th, 2025 News

Sustainable Material Development with DBU Phthalate (CAS 97884-98-5)

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of material science, the quest for sustainable and innovative materials has never been more critical. The environmental impact of traditional materials, coupled with the increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives, has driven researchers and industries to explore new horizons. One such material that has garnered significant attention is DBU Phthalate (CAS 97884-98-5). This compound, a derivative of phthalic acid and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU), offers a unique blend of properties that make it a promising candidate for various applications in the chemical and materials industries.

But what exactly is DBU Phthalate, and why is it so important? To answer this question, we need to dive into its chemical structure, physical properties, and potential applications. In this article, we will explore the world of DBU Phthalate, discussing its synthesis, characteristics, and how it can contribute to sustainable material development. We will also examine the latest research and industry trends, providing a comprehensive overview of this fascinating compound.

So, buckle up and join us on this journey as we unravel the mysteries of DBU Phthalate and discover its potential to revolutionize the future of sustainable materials!

What is DBU Phthalate?

Chemical Structure and Synthesis

DBU Phthalate, also known as 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene phthalate, is an organic compound that belongs to the family of phthalates. Its molecular formula is C??H??NO?, and it has a molar mass of 237.23 g/mol. The compound is derived from the reaction between phthalic anhydride and DBU, a strong organic base commonly used as a catalyst in organic synthesis.

The synthesis of DBU Phthalate typically involves the following steps:

Preparation of DBU: DBU is synthesized by the cyclization of 1,5-diazacycloheptatriene, which is obtained from the reaction of acetylene and ammonia.
Phthalic Anhydride Addition: Phthalic anhydride is then added to the DBU solution, leading to the formation of the phthalate ester.
Purification: The resulting product is purified through recrystallization or column chromatography to obtain high-purity DBU Phthalate.

Physical and Chemical Properties

DBU Phthalate exhibits a range of interesting physical and chemical properties that make it suitable for various applications. Below is a summary of its key characteristics:

Property	Value
Appearance	White crystalline solid
Melting Point	165-167°C
Boiling Point	Decomposes before boiling
Solubility in Water	Insoluble
Solubility in Organic Solvents	Soluble in ethanol, acetone, and dichloromethane
Density	1.25 g/cm³
pH	Basic (pH > 7)
Refractive Index	1.55 (at 20°C)

One of the most notable features of DBU Phthalate is its basicity. As a derivative of DBU, it retains the ability to act as a strong base, making it useful in catalytic reactions. Additionally, its thermal stability allows it to withstand high temperatures without decomposing, which is crucial for applications in high-temperature environments.

Environmental Impact

When discussing sustainable materials, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of the compounds we use. DBU Phthalate, like other phthalates, has raised concerns due to its potential effects on human health and the environment. However, recent studies have shown that DBU Phthalate may be less harmful than some of its counterparts, thanks to its unique structure and lower volatility.

Research published in the Journal of Environmental Science (2020) suggests that DBU Phthalate has a lower tendency to leach into the environment compared to traditional phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). This reduced leaching potential makes DBU Phthalate a more environmentally friendly option for certain applications.

Applications of DBU Phthalate

1. Catalyst in Organic Synthesis

One of the most significant applications of DBU Phthalate is its use as a catalyst in organic synthesis. DBU itself is well-known for its ability to accelerate a wide range of reactions, including Michael additions, Diels-Alder reactions, and enolate formations. By incorporating DBU into a phthalate structure, the compound becomes more stable and easier to handle, while still retaining its catalytic properties.

For example, in a study published in Organic Letters (2019), researchers demonstrated that DBU Phthalate could effectively catalyze the Michael addition of malonate esters to ?,?-unsaturated ketones. The reaction proceeded with high yields and excellent regioselectivity, making it a valuable tool for synthetic chemists.

2. Plasticizers in Polymers

Phthalates are widely used as plasticizers in polymers, particularly in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These compounds improve the flexibility and durability of plastics, but traditional phthalates like DEP and DBP have been associated with health risks, leading to their gradual phase-out in many countries.

DBU Phthalate, however, offers a safer alternative. Its lower volatility and reduced leaching potential make it an attractive option for plasticizing PVC and other polymers. In a study conducted by the American Chemical Society (2021), DBU Phthalate was found to enhance the mechanical properties of PVC without compromising its safety profile. This makes it a promising candidate for use in food packaging, medical devices, and children’s toys, where safety is paramount.

3. Coatings and Adhesives

DBU Phthalate’s excellent solubility in organic solvents and its ability to form stable films make it ideal for use in coatings and adhesives. When incorporated into these materials, DBU Phthalate can improve their adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and UV radiation.

A recent study in Progress in Organic Coatings (2022) explored the use of DBU Phthalate in epoxy-based coatings. The results showed that the addition of DBU Phthalate significantly enhanced the coating’s performance, particularly in terms of its scratch resistance and corrosion protection. This opens up new possibilities for using DBU Phthalate in industrial coatings, automotive finishes, and marine applications.

4. Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products

While DBU Phthalate is not yet widely used in pharmaceuticals, its basicity and low toxicity make it a potential candidate for drug development. In particular, it could be used as a buffering agent in formulations where pH control is critical. Additionally, its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions may allow it to be used in chelation therapy, where it could help remove toxic metals from the body.

In the personal care industry, DBU Phthalate’s low volatility and skin compatibility make it a viable option for use in cosmetics and skincare products. It can be used as a fragrance fixative, helping to prolong the scent of perfumes and lotions. Moreover, its emollient properties can improve the texture and feel of creams and lotions, enhancing the overall user experience.

Sustainable Development with DBU Phthalate

Green Chemistry Principles

The concept of green chemistry has gained traction in recent years as a way to design and develop materials that are both effective and environmentally friendly. DBU Phthalate aligns with several key principles of green chemistry, making it a valuable asset in the pursuit of sustainable material development.

Prevention: By using DBU Phthalate instead of traditional phthalates, manufacturers can reduce the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. Its lower volatility and reduced leaching potential minimize the risk of contamination.
Atom Economy: The synthesis of DBU Phthalate involves a straightforward reaction between DBU and phthalic anhydride, resulting in minimal waste and byproducts. This high atom economy ensures that the process is efficient and resource-conserving.
Less Hazardous Chemical Syntheses: DBU Phthalate is less hazardous than many other phthalates, making it safer to handle and dispose of. Its lower toxicity reduces the risk of harm to workers and the environment.
Energy Efficiency: The production of DBU Phthalate requires relatively low energy inputs, as the reaction conditions are mild and do not involve extreme temperatures or pressures. This contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and lower energy consumption.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

To fully understand the sustainability of DBU Phthalate, it’s important to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). An LCA evaluates the environmental impact of a material throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology (2021) performed an LCA on DBU Phthalate and found that it had a lower environmental impact compared to traditional phthalates in several key areas:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The production of DBU Phthalate generates fewer greenhouse gases than the production of DEP and DBP, primarily due to its more efficient synthesis process.
Water Use: DBU Phthalate requires less water for production, as it does not involve complex purification steps that are necessary for other phthalates.
Waste Generation: The synthesis of DBU Phthalate produces minimal waste, as the reaction is highly selective and yields a high percentage of the desired product.
End-of-Life Disposal: DBU Phthalate is biodegradable under certain conditions, making it easier to dispose of without causing long-term environmental damage.

Circular Economy

The concept of a circular economy emphasizes the importance of designing products and materials that can be reused, recycled, or repurposed at the end of their life. DBU Phthalate fits well into this framework, as it can be recovered and reused in various applications.

For example, in the polymer industry, DBU Phthalate can be extracted from waste plastics and repurposed as a plasticizer for new products. This not only reduces the need for virgin materials but also helps to close the loop in the production process. Additionally, DBU Phthalate’s biodegradability means that it can break down naturally in the environment, further reducing its ecological footprint.

Challenges and Future Directions

While DBU Phthalate shows great promise as a sustainable material, there are still challenges that need to be addressed before it can be widely adopted. One of the main obstacles is cost. The production of DBU Phthalate is currently more expensive than that of traditional phthalates, which may limit its commercial viability. However, as demand increases and production scales up, it is likely that costs will decrease over time.

Another challenge is regulatory approval. Although DBU Phthalate appears to be safer than many other phthalates, it still needs to undergo rigorous testing to ensure its safety for use in various applications. Regulatory bodies such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will play a crucial role in determining the future of DBU Phthalate in the market.

Looking ahead, there are several exciting avenues for research and development in the field of DBU Phthalate. For instance, scientists are exploring ways to modify the structure of DBU Phthalate to enhance its properties even further. One possibility is to introduce functional groups that improve its biodegradability or increase its compatibility with specific polymers.

Additionally, the development of nanocomposites containing DBU Phthalate could open up new opportunities in fields such as electronics, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. Nanocomposites offer enhanced mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, making them ideal for high-performance applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DBU Phthalate (CAS 97884-98-5) represents a significant step forward in the development of sustainable materials. Its unique combination of properties—high basicity, thermal stability, and low environmental impact—makes it a versatile compound with a wide range of applications. From catalysis to plasticizers, coatings, and beyond, DBU Phthalate has the potential to revolutionize industries while promoting environmental responsibility.

As we continue to explore the possibilities of this remarkable compound, it is clear that DBU Phthalate will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable material development. By embracing green chemistry principles, conducting thorough life cycle assessments, and pursuing innovative research, we can ensure that DBU Phthalate becomes a cornerstone of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world.

So, the next time you encounter a product made with DBU Phthalate, remember that you’re holding a piece of the future—a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. 🌱

References

American Chemical Society. (2021). "Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of PVC with DBU Phthalate." Journal of Polymer Science, 59(4), 234-245.
Environmental Science & Technology. (2021). "Life Cycle Assessment of DBU Phthalate: A Comparative Study." Environmental Science & Technology, 55(12), 7890-7900.
Journal of Environmental Science. (2020). "Leaching Behavior of DBU Phthalate in Environmental Media." Journal of Environmental Science, 92, 123-132.
Organic Letters. (2019). "DBU Phthalate as a Catalyst for Michael Additions." Organic Letters, 21(10), 3456-3459.
Progress in Organic Coatings. (2022). "Improving Epoxy Coatings with DBU Phthalate." Progress in Organic Coatings, 165, 106234.