Diisobutyl Adipate, commonly known as DIBA, traces its roots as an ester derived from adipic acid and isobutanol. It goes under the molecular formula C14H26O4 and appears as a colorless, oily liquid at room temperature, steering clear of crystallization or solid forms like flakes, pearls, or powders under typical storage. This material resists freezing under moderate conditions, which makes it reliable in scenarios that require stability over a range of temperatures. Every milliliter of DIBA offers a density close to 0.96 g/cm³ at 20°C, so it tends to be lighter than water, a trait that matters during handling and formulation in industrial settings.
At its core, DIBA carries the chemical backbone of adipic acid, strung together with two isobutyl chains. Its structural simplicity drives a notable flexibility and low glass transition temperature. The substance does not form flakes or crystals, instead presenting itself as a smooth-flowing liquid. With a molecular weight of 258.36 g/mol, this compound resists volatility and comes with a faint, subtle odor often detectable only in concentrated form. In everyday use, DIBA’s low viscosity and high spreading quality make it easy to mix and distribute, especially in coatings, plastics, and similar applications. These physical characteristics let manufacturers develop products that need softness and plasticity, such as flexible plastics and personal care items.
DIBA finds itself woven through a variety of industries, from personal care to polymer processing. Its use as a plasticizer brings out the best in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and copolymers, providing flexibility without the harsh brittleness that unmodified plastics often display. Cosmetic formulators often lean on DIBA for its ability to dissolve and carry other ingredients, lending a silky touch to lotions and creams. The raw materials that feed into DIBA’s synthesis—adipic acid and isobutanol—bring predictability and control, both core values in safe chemical production. For those engaged in regulatory compliance or logistics, DIBA travels under HS Code 2917.39, which slots it among other adipic acid derivatives and makes import-export procedures straightforward.
Every responsible user scrutinizes safety before integrating new chemicals. DIBA presents a relatively low toxicity profile, with no evidence of significant acute harmful effects from standard handling, although high concentrations can irritate the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract. It is not classed as hazardous under many major global chemical regulations, including GHS and REACH, but workers should always handle it with gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation. Spills wash away easily with detergent and water, thanks to low solubility in water and stability in the presence of mild acids or bases. Risk mitigation stems from good manufacturing practices and clear labelling, rather than ever-present danger. Disposal respects local chemical waste protocols without the extra procedures reserved for persistent, bioaccumulative, or highly toxic substances.
Suppliers usually guarantee DIBA purity above 99%, controlled water content under 0.1%, and acid values below 0.01 mg KOH/g. These figures hold real meaning for formulators focused on product consistency. DIBA’s refractive index hovers at 1.435 – 1.439, reinforcing expectations about appearance and blend. Storage recommendations point to tightly closed containers, shaded from direct sunlight and protected against excessive heat, which helps protect molecular integrity over long stretches. A high boiling point near 320°C and a flash point of about 163°C suggest it seldom becomes a fire hazard without misuse or accident. For those worried about migration from plastics or cosmetics, compliance testing often finds DIBA well within safety thresholds, cementing its standing as a dependable additive.
In the fast-moving world of industrial chemistry, even a relatively safe product like DIBA draws scrutiny from regulators and end users. Manufacturers who commit to transparent labeling, detailed safety data sheets, and responsible sourcing gain customer trust and regulatory approval. Partnering with suppliers that test each batch for impurities tightens quality control and reduces the risk of recalls or inconsistent production runs. With sustainable sourcing of adipic acid and responsible isobutanol production, companies contribute to environmental stewardship, often responding to client and stakeholder demands for greener supply chains. Integrating good laboratory practice and comprehensive training on-site addresses most process safety risks, supporting steady growth and minimizing disruption.
