[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of dimethyl phthalate, and where phthalates are used

Properties of Dimethyl Phthalate

Dimethyl phthalate (Dimethyl Phthalate, referred to as DMP) is an important chemical intermediate, chemical formula is C10H10O4. It is an organic compound formed by linking a benzene ring with two methoxyacetyl groups. DMP is a colorless transparent oily liquid with a slight aromatic odor. It has a molecular weight of 194.18g/mol, a melting point of 2°C, a boiling point of 282°C and a density of 1.19g/cm³(20°C). DMP has good thermal stability and light stability, is not volatile, can be miscible with a variety of organic solvents, such as ethanol, ether, acetone, etc., but almost insoluble in water.

Dimethyl phthalate use

The main uses of DMP include plasticizers, pesticide carriers and cosmetic additives. As a common plasticizer, DMP is widely used in the manufacture of various plastic and rubber products, which can improve the flexibility and durability of materials. In the field of pesticides, DMP is often used as a carrier and solvent to help the active ingredients to better disperse and penetrate. DMP is also used in cosmetics, especially as a solvent for fragrances and sunscreen products, which can increase the extensibility of the product and the absorption of the skin.

Dimethyl phthalate upstream and downstream raw materials

The production of DMP mainly depends on its upstream raw materials phthalic acid and methanol. Phthalic acid can be produced by the oxidation of p-xylene, while methanol is usually derived from the gasification of natural gas or coal. In the production process, phthalic acid and methanol are esterified in the presence of acidic catalyst to produce DMP and water. DMP's downstream products are mainly various plastics, rubber products and cosmetics. Its market demand is closely related to the production of these end products.

Dimethyl phthalate storage method

Because DMP has certain chemical activity, it is necessary to prevent contact with strong oxidants and acid-base substances during storage to avoid chemical reactions. It is recommended to store DMP in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources, and keep the container sealed to prevent leakage. Handle with care during handling to avoid package damage. The temperature of the storage environment should be kept between 15-25°C, and the relative humidity should not be too high to prevent product degradation and performance degradation.

Dimethyl Phthalate Market Prospects

With the growth of demand for plastic and rubber products, the market prospect of DMP is generally optimistic. Especially in developing countries, the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization will further promote the demand for plastic products, thus driving the demand for plasticizers. Increasingly stringent environmental regulations are also prompting companies to look for more environmentally friendly, low-toxicity plasticizer products, and DMP is expected to gain more market share in this context due to its relatively low toxicity and environmental impact.

Dimethyl Phthalate: Health and Environmental Effects

Although DMP is considered to be less toxic, long-term exposure may still have adverse effects on human health, such as skin allergies and respiratory tract irritation. Therefore, when using DMP should take appropriate protective measures, such as wearing gloves and masks, to ensure good ventilation. DMP also has certain toxicity to aquatic organisms, and it is necessary to avoid it from entering the water body to prevent environmental pollution. In the process of production and use, the discharge should be strictly controlled to ensure the proper disposal of waste.

Dimethyl Phthalate Regulations and Standards

In order to regulate the use and management of DMP, many countries and regions have formulated relevant regulations and standards. For example, the European Union has strict restrictions on the use of DMP, especially in toys and child care products, requiring its content not to exceed certain limits. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also placed DMP on its list of chemical substances for priority review, emphasizing the control of its use and release. In China, the state also has clear regulations on the use of DMP, especially in food contact materials and cosmetics.

Dimethyl Phthalate Future Development Direction

In the future, as the concept of green chemistry and sustainable development is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people, the production and use of DMP will face more challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, the development of more environmentally friendly and efficient production processes to reduce energy consumption and pollution emissions is an important issue that enterprises must face. On the other hand, with the increasing attention to health and environmental safety, the development of new plasticizer products with low toxicity and biodegradability will become the development trend of the industry. The potential applications of DMP in other emerging fields, such as new energy materials and biomedicine, are also worthy of attention, which may bring new impetus to its market development.

Conclusion

As an important chemical product, dimethyl phthalate has broad application prospects and market potential. There are also many challenges in its production and use, including the control of health and environmental impacts, compliance with regulations, and technological innovation. By strengthening research and development, improving management level and expanding new application fields, DMP industry will be able to maintain the driving force of sustainable development in the fierce market competition.