Dimethyl Azelate stands out as a specialty chemical, known among those in the field of organic synthesis and polymer science. Its molecular formula, C11H20O4, points to a straightforward but essential structure: a nine-carbon dicarboxylic acid esterified with methanol. This gives Dimethyl Azelate a unique profile, both in the raw materials used to produce it and the properties it provides. Most manufacturers start with azelaic acid, usually derived through oxidative cleavage of oleic acid, and react it with methanol in a process that demands care due to the interaction of acids and alcohols.
The chemical structure features two ester groups at both ends of a straight hydrocarbon chain. This arrangement affects how it behaves under different processing conditions. As a solid at room temperature, Dimethyl Azelate typically appears as crystalline flakes, fine powder, or sometimes as pearls. In some cases, it can even be encountered in liquid form if temperatures rise above its melting point, which rests near 44°C (111°F). Its density measures around 1.06 g/cm³, and solubility leans toward compatibility with many organic solvents but not water. From a practitioner's point of view, this makes it easier to store and weigh out in the lab, while also supporting quick melt incorporation into resins or plasticizers. A clear, faintly sweet odor sometimes accompanies pure Dimethyl Azelate, reminding me of early days working with specialty plasticizers where precise handling could make a real difference in final product quality.
The technical grade of Dimethyl Azelate usually calls for a purity upwards of 98%, with water content kept low, typically less than 0.3%. Some manufacturers offer it as high-purity solid flakes, ideal for processes that require slow melting and reliable dosing. Others ship it in powder form for faster dissolution in solvent blends. Its Pearl and crystal forms often show up in specialty chemical supply catalogs, mostly when customers ask for ease of measurement or faster melting. Laboratories and industrial users weigh it out in grams or kilograms, but when scaling up to production batches, the measurement usually shifts to liters for molten transport or bulk containers for solid flakes. Each form presents its own handling quirks: flakes avoid clumping, powder spreads quickly, pearls minimize dusting, and molten liquid speeds up bulk mixing but needs careful temperature control.
Chemically, Dimethyl Azelate remains stable at ambient conditions but can break down under strong acids, bases, or high temperatures above 200°C. The two terminal ester groups invite reactions that drive many industrial uses: plasticizers for flexible plastics, synthetic lubricants, key intermediates in the production of polyamides and polyesters, and specialty coatings. Its molecular structure resists hydrolysis in neutral storage but breaks down in extreme pH, so proper containment ensures product lifespan and safety. The HS Code—29171300—ties Dimethyl Azelate to the international system for trade and customs tracking, important for any business that sources or ships across borders. Handling this material reminds me of balancing efficiency with safety: even though Dimethyl Azelate is generally less toxic than its acid precursor, direct contact should be avoided.
Workplaces using Dimethyl Azelate should keep safety data sheets close by. The material can irritate skin, eyes, or the respiratory system if dusts are generated, so gloves and eye protection matter. Spills usually mean sweeping up solid bits or absorbing residues, but avoiding release to waterways stays important because azelate derivatives can persist. It's not classed as acutely hazardous, but inhaling powder or mist leads to discomfort. Years ago in a specialty elastomer lab, I saw careless handling lead to unnecessary skin rashes—so I always valued strict protocols, especially with chemical esters. Long-term studies suggest low chronic toxicity and minimal bioaccumulation, but research is ongoing as more producers use renewable raw materials and green chemistry routes to make Dimethyl Azelate.
A big part of responsible chemical work involves sourcing raw materials sustainably and handling products in ways that minimize waste. Dimethyl Azelate’s production increasingly turns to renewable sources, such as sebacic acid from castor oil, supporting cleaner supply chains. In my experience, tighter controls on factory emissions, proper training for material handling, and investment in less hazardous solvent systems have lowered risks—not only for workers but also for communities near manufacturing sites. For transport and storage, robust containers and consistent labeling have helped track inventory and reduce mix-ups. Consumer safety grows as regulatory agencies tighten oversight on chemical products, but every practical improvement starts at the lab bench and on the plant floor. Simple steps, like regular contamination checks and staff training, have real power to prevent injuries or costly recalls.
Dimethyl Azelate may look like just another specialty chemical, but its production, safe use, and growing focus on environmental responsibility reflect the evolution of modern chemical industries. Looking at material specs, chemical structure, and physical forms helps anyone in R&D, quality control, or production line work get a better grip on why details—the flake size, the density, the purity—actually matter day to day. Direct experience on processing teams has shown me how sticking with best practice not only keeps people safer but also builds confidence in the end products that reach customers. For anyone looking to source or use Dimethyl Azelate, start with the technical data and build a culture of care from the ground up.
