Introduction
Dihexadecyl peroxydicarbonate (CAS 26322-14-5), also known as dicetyl peroxydicarbonate, is a long-chain peroxydicarbonate initiator characterized by its C16 alkyl substituents. The extended hydrocarbon chains confer unique solubility and physical properties that differentiate this compound from shorter-chain peroxydicarbonates.
Key Facts
- CAS Number: 26322-14-5
- Molecular Formula: C34H66O6
- Molecular Weight: 570.89 g/mol
- Appearance: White to off-white waxy solid at low temperatures
- 10-Hour Half-Life Temperature: ~45-50 deg C
- Storage: Deep refrigerated, typically -15 to -20 deg C
Physical Properties
The long C16 alkyl chains make this peroxydicarbonate a waxy solid with limited solubility in water but good solubility in hydrocarbon solvents and monomers. The high molecular weight means that active oxygen content is relatively low (~2.8% theoretical), requiring higher dosage by weight to achieve equivalent radical generation compared to shorter-chain peroxydicarbonates.
Applications
PVC Polymerization
Dihexadecyl peroxydicarbonate is used as an initiator for PVC suspension polymerization, particularly where the initiator’s physical form and solubility characteristics are advantageous. The long-chain alkyl groups can influence initiator partitioning in the VCM/water/PVC slurry system.
Market Position
This compound represents a specialty niche within the peroxydicarbonate product family, used when standard initiators (EHP, IPP) do not fully meet the application requirements.
Safety
All peroxydicarbonate safety protocols apply: deep refrigerated storage, strict temperature control, explosion-proof equipment, and comprehensive emergency planning.
Q: What advantage do long-chain peroxydicarbonates offer?
A: The extended hydrocarbon chains can modify the initiator’s behavior in the polymerization medium, potentially affecting its partitioning between monomer, water, and polymer phases. In some cases, this can lead to improved initiator efficiency or modified polymer particle characteristics. The higher molecular weight also means decomposition generates fewer radicals per unit mass, which can be advantageous for processes requiring very low initiator concentrations.
Key Takeaways
- Dihexadecyl peroxydicarbonate (CAS 26322-14-5) is a long-chain specialty peroxydicarbonate initiator.
- The C16 alkyl chains provide unique solubility and partitioning characteristics.
- Higher molecular weight requires adjusted dosage compared to shorter-chain alternatives.
- Shandong Do Sender Chemicals offers this specialty initiator for specific PVC polymerization requirements.