AZO Initiators — Key Facts

Azo initiators are low-temperature radical initiators used for vinyl polymerization and chemical blowing (foaming) applications.

Key applications
PVC, ABS, polystyrene, acrylics, rubber, and foam blowing agents.
Key brands
Azox® AIBN, ABVN, AIBME, ACCN
Compliance
REACH, TSCA, ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001

Organic Peroxides vs AZO Initiators

Both are radical polymerization initiators, but organic peroxides cover a broad decomposition-temperature range for PVC, polyolefin, and FRP curing, while azo initiators give cleaner, lower-temperature control ideal for acrylics and foam blowing.

DimensionOrganic PeroxidesAZO Initiators
What they are Radical initiators that decompose to release free radicals; the workhorse for PVC, polyolefin, and FRP curing. Low-temperature azo radical initiators used for vinyl polymerization and chemical blowing (foaming).
Decomposition temperature Broad range (~40-200 C) - a grade for nearly every process window. Lower-temperature control (~30-120 C) - ideal for heat-sensitive systems.
Typical physical form Liquids, pastes, and solids (e.g., DCP, MEKP, peroxydicarbonates). Crystalline powders (e.g., AIBN, ABVN, AIBME) and water-soluble grades.
Best suited for PVC, LDPE, thermoset composites (FRP), rubber crosslinking, wire & cable. Acrylics, emulsion polymerization, ABS, and foam blowing agents.
Key advantage Wide decomposition range and high radical yield for demanding cures. Cleaner decomposition (no carboxyl by-products) and precise low-temp control.
Explore Organic Peroxides family AZO Initiators family

AZO Initiators

A comprehensive portfolio of high-purity, high-activity azo initiators serving as essential free-radical initiators for polymer synthesis, acrylic resin production, and advanced material manufacturing worldwide.

AZO Initiators — High-purity azo polymerization initiators

Do Sender Chem has successfully broken through long-standing technical monopolies and bottlenecks in azo initiator technology. We deliver high-purity, high-activity AZO initiator products designed for polymer synthesis and acrylic resin production. Our AZO product line features controllable decomposition temperatures , exceptionally low residual monomer levels, and consistent batch-to-batch quality.

With industry-leading purity levels (≥99%), precisely engineered decomposition temperatures from ~51°C to ~66°C, and a reliable global supply chain reaching over 80 countries, Do Sender Chem's AZO initiators are the preferred choice for demanding polymerization processes around the globe.

Every batch undergoes rigorous quality testing at our state-of-the-art facility in Zibo, Shandong. Our technical team provides comprehensive support from product selection through process optimization, ensuring seamless integration into your production workflow.

Key Features at a Glance

Every AZO initiator in our portfolio is backed by these core quality and service commitments.

High Purity ≥99%
Controllable Decomposition
Low Residual Monomer
Global Supply Chain
Consistent Batch Quality
24/7 Technical Support
Custom Synthesis Available
ISO-Certified Facility

Key Applications

AZO initiators from Do Sender Chem are trusted across diverse polymerization and resin production processes.

Bulk & Solution Polymerization

Bulk & Solution Polymerization

AIBN and ABVN deliver consistent radical flux for predictable polymer architectures in bulk and solution-phase processes, ensuring narrow molecular weight distributions.

Suspension & Emulsion Polymerization

Suspension & Emulsion Polymerization

Our azo initiators provide excellent droplet nucleation and controlled kinetics in aqueous suspension and emulsion systems for PVC, polystyrene, and acrylic beads.

Acrylic Resin & Coatings

Acrylic Resin & Coatings

AIBME\'s nitrile-free decomposition profile and liquid handling make it the environmentally preferred choice for modern acrylic resin, high-solids coatings, and water-borne formulations.

Styrene & Vinyl Monomers

Styrene & Vinyl Monomers

Highly effective initiation for styrene, acrylate, methacrylate, and vinyl acetate polymerization with minimal side reactions and excellent conversion rates.

Automotive & Industrial Coatings

Automotive & Industrial Coatings

Precisely controlled molecular weights and low residual monomer levels meet the stringent performance requirements of automotive OEM and industrial coating applications.

Advanced Materials

Advanced Materials

Specialty azo initiators for high-performance polymers, optical materials, biomedical polymers, and other demanding advanced material applications requiring ultra-high purity.

Explore Our AZO Initiators

A comprehensive range of azo initiators engineered for diverse polymerization needs, backed by Do Sender Chem\'s global quality assurance.

Azox

AIBN

CAS 78-67-1

The industry-standard azo initiator for bulk, solution, and suspension polymerization. White crystalline powder with reliable 10-hour half-life at 65°C, providing consistent radical flux.

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Azox

ABVN

CAS 13472-08-7

High-activity azo initiator with lower decomposition temperature (~51°C half-life), ideal for low-to-medium temperature polymerization with minimal thermal stress on heat-sensitive monomers.

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Azox

AIBME

CAS 2589-57-3

Liquid azo initiator with exceptional solubility and handling convenience. Nitrile-free decomposition makes it environmentally preferred for modern resin and coating formulations.

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Azox

ACCN

CAS 15514-76-0

1,1\'-Azobis(cyclohexanecarbonitrile) — a high-temperature azo initiator with 10-hour half-life at 88°C, designed for elevated-temperature polymerization processes requiring thermal stability.

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Tailored AZO Initiator Solutions

Beyond our standard portfolio, we offer bespoke azo initiator development and formulation services to meet your unique process requirements.

R&D Service

Custom Synthesis

Bespoke azo compounds engineered to your target decomposition temperature range. Our R&D team works closely with your process engineers to develop initiators matched precisely to your reactor conditions and polymer specifications.

Discuss your requirements
Scale-Up

Formulation & Scale-Up

Pre-formulated solutions, pastes, and blends optimized for your production line. From lab-scale trials to full commercial production, we provide consistent quality and technical support throughout the scale-up journey.

Discuss your requirements

Technical Specifications

Key physical and chemical properties of our standard AZO initiator products.

Property AIBN ABVN AIBME
Chemical Name2,2′-Azobis(isobutyronitrile)2,2′-Azobis(isovaleronitrile)Dimethyl 2,2′-azobis(isobutyrate)
CAS Number78-67-113472-08-72589-57-3
Molecular FormulaC8H12N4C10H16N4C10H16N2O4
Molecular Weight164.21 g/mol192.26 g/mol228.25 g/mol
AppearanceWhite crystalline powderWhite to off-white crystalline solidColorless to pale yellow liquid
Purity (min.)≥ 99.0%≥ 98.0%≥ 98.0%
Melting Point102–105 °C48–52 °CLiquid at 25 °C
10-Hour Half-Life Temp.~65 °C (toluene)~51 °C (toluene)~66 °C (toluene)
Storage Recommendation< 25 °C, dry, dark< 10 °C, dry, dark< 25 °C, dry, dark
Packaging20 kg fiber drums20 kg fiber drums25 kg HDPE drums

Download Documents

Access technical documentation, safety data sheets, and product brochures for our azo initiator portfolio.

📖
AZO Initiators Product Brochure
Complete overview of our azo initiator portfolio with application guidelines, technical highlights, and product selection guide.
Brochure / English / PDF 2.4 MB
Download
📋
Safety of Organic Peroxides & AZO Initiators
Comprehensive guidelines on safe handling, storage, transportation, and emergency response for organic peroxides and azo initiators.
Brochure / English / PDF 1.2 MB
Download
📄
AIBN Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
Detailed physical, chemical, and performance specifications for AIBN — Azobisisobutyronitrile (CAS 78-67-1).
TDS / English / PDF 0.8 MB
Download
📄
ABVN Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
Detailed physical, chemical, and performance specifications for ABVN — Azobisisovaleronitrile (CAS 13472-08-7).
TDS / English / PDF 0.7 MB
Download
📄
AIBME Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
Detailed physical, chemical, and performance specifications for AIBME — Dimethyl azobisisobutyrate (CAS 2589-57-3).
TDS / English / PDF 0.7 MB
Download
AIBN Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Regulatory-compliant safety data sheet for safe handling, storage, and emergency procedures for AIBN.
SDS / English / PDF 0.3 MB
Download

Quality Assurance & Safety First

Every batch of azo initiator produced at our Zibo, Shandong facility undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure consistent performance and the highest safety standards.

AZO initiators are thermally sensitive materials requiring proper storage and handling. Our products are supplied with comprehensive safety documentation and are backed by our 24/7 technical support team. We recommend storing products in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before handling. For technical guidance on safe handling, storage, or emergency response procedures, our global team is available around the clock.

Do Sender Chem Quality Control Laboratory

Contact Our Experts

For more information about AZO Initiators, please contact our experts. We look forward to hearing from you.


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Frequently Asked Questions — AZO Initiators

Azo initiators (azo compounds) contain the azo group (-N=N-). They decompose thermally to generate two carbon-centered radicals and nitrogen gas. The evolving nitrogen can be useful (foaming) or problematic (voids). Do Sender Chem's Azox brand offers high-purity azo initiators.

Azo initiators decompose to carbon-centered radicals plus inert nitrogen gas, giving cleaner kinetics and no oxidizer hazard class. Peroxides decompose to oxygen-centered radicals and are Class 5.2. Azox is preferred where nitrogen evolution aids foaming.

AIBN (azobisisobutyronitrile) is the most common azo initiator, used in polymerization of styrenics, acrylates, and vinyls at 50-80 deg C. Azox supplies high-purity AIBN for lab and industrial use.

ABVN (azobisdimethylvaleronitrile, also called AZDN) decomposes at lower temperatures than AIBN and is widely used in PVC, foam, and emulsion polymerization. Azox provides ABVN for low-temperature processes.

AIBN (78-67-1), ABVN/AZDN (4419-11-8), AMBN (2589-57-3). Each Azox product lists its CAS on the TDS and SDS for regulatory reference.

No. Azo compounds are not Class 5.2 oxidizers and do not present the self-reactive explosive hazard of organic peroxides, though they still require temperature-controlled storage to avoid premature decomposition.

Like peroxides, azo initiators are characterized by 10-hour and 1-hour half-life temperatures. AIBN's 10-hour half-life is about 65 deg C; ABVN is lower. Azox provides half-life tables per product.

Decomposition yields tetramethylsuccinonitrile (from AIBN) or other nitrile fragments. For food contact, residual toxicity must be assessed. Azox can advise on low-residue grades and post-treatment.

Each mole of azo compound yields one mole of N2 gas. This is exploited in chemical foaming agents but must be vented in closed systems to avoid pressure buildup.

Yes, water-dispersible azo grades are used in emulsion polymerization. Azox offers emulsion-suitable azo initiators for acrylic and vinyl acetate systems.

AIBN has a molecular weight of 164.21 g/mol. Exact values for each Azox product are in the TDS and used for dosing calculations.

Some azo compounds degrade under UV/light. Store in shaded or opaque packaging away from direct sunlight to preserve activity.

Azox supplies standard (98 percent+) and high-purity grades for electronics and medical applications, with tight control of residual solvent and ash.

Yes, combined azo-peroxide systems broaden the initiation window, but compatibility and decomposition kinetics must be validated. Azox technical team can design co-initiator packages.

AMBN (azobisisobutyramide) decomposes at a higher temperature than AIBN and is used where milder conditions are needed or for specific foam and adhesive applications. Azox supplies AMBN on request.

Azo initiators are widely used in PVC, PS, SAN, ABS, acrylics, and vinyl acetate polymerization, as well as in foaming of PVC and rubbers. Azox grades are selected by process temperature.

Typical dosage is 0.1-2.0 percent based on monomer, depending on target molecular weight and temperature. Azox technical team recommends specific levels for your system.

In PVC and rubber foaming, azo compounds decompose to release N2, creating cellular structures for shoe soles, gaskets, and insulation. Azox blowing-agent grades control cell size and density.

Yes, azo blowing agents produce fine-celled EVA foam for footwear and padding. Azox grades are matched to EVA processing temperatures for uniform expansion.

ABVN/AZDN and related low-temperature azo compounds initiate polymerization around 40-60 deg C, ideal for heat-sensitive monomers and emulsions. Azox supplies these grades.

Yes, AIBN and ABVN are common in suspension PVC and styrenic bead polymerization, giving controlled particle size and molecular weight.

Yes, water-dispersible azo grades initiate emulsion polymerization of acrylates, styrene, and VAc. Azox offers emulsion-compatible products.

Azo initiators cure acrylic and rubber-based adhesives, enabling fast solvent-free crosslinking for labels, tapes, and construction adhesives.

Yes, PVAc emulsions for paints and adhesives commonly use azo or persulfate initiators. Azox provides azo grades for VAc systems.

Yes, azo and peroxide initiators are used in the graft and mass polymerization steps of ABS. Azox supplies grades matched to ABS reactor conditions.

Cast acrylic uses AIBN or low-temperature azo grades for bubble-free polymerization. Azox high-purity grades minimize optical defects.

Specialty azo grades with low residual toxicity are used in selected medical polymers. Azox advises on compliance and residue limits.

Foam density is controlled by initiator/blowing-agent loading, decomposition temperature, and pressure. Azox supports density optimization for foamed articles.

Yes, with consistent half-life and purity, azo initiators perform in continuous reactors. Azox ensures batch-to-batch consistency for continuous lines.

Azo pre-activation can assist grafting, though radiation grafting typically uses other means. Azox can advise on combined approaches.

Azox blowing-agent grades for EPDM, NBR, and CR produce microcellular gaskets and seals with controlled compression set.

Yes, azo initiators form hydrogels for water treatment and agriculture. Azox supplies grades compatible with aqueous gel systems.

Selected azo grades cure specialty coatings where peroxide oxidizer classification is undesirable. Azox supports coating formulators.

Precise N2 evolution yields microcellular structures for automotive and sporting goods. Azox grades give tight cell-size distribution.

Yes, azo and persulfate initiators produce SBR latex for carpets and adhesives. Azox provides emulsion-suitable azo products.

Selection balances decomposition temperature with PVC fusion and gas retention. Azox blowing grades are tuned for PVC foam profiles and boards.

Yes, AIBN is a standard initiator for MMA solution polymerization in coatings and inks. Azox high-purity AIBN minimizes color.

Higher-decomposition-temperature azo compounds (e.g., AMBN-type) suit processes above 80 deg C. Azox supplies these for demanding applications.

Yes, azo-initiated polymerization grafts polymers onto nanoparticles for reinforced composites. Azox supports research and scale-up.

Yes, azo-initiated polymerization produces conductive polymers such as polyaniline and PEDOT for sensors and antistatic coatings. Azox supports these specialty polymerizations.

Azo initiators are less hazardous than peroxides but can decompose exothermically and release toxic nitrile fumes. Handle per SDS with ventilation and PPE.

Use nitrile gloves, safety goggles, lab coat, and a respirator for dusty operations. Follow the SDS for the specific Azox product.

Store cool (below 25 deg C, some below 20 deg C), dry, and away from heat and sunlight. Use monitored cold storage. Azox provides per-product storage guidance.

They decompose exothermically releasing N2 and nitrile vapors; in closed containers pressure can build. Maintain below SADT and provide venting.

Decomposition can release tetramethylsuccinonitrile and other nitriles, which are toxic. Ensure ventilation and avoid inhalation. The SDS lists specific hazards.

Although azo compounds are not oxidizers, store them separately from peroxides and incompatible materials to avoid cross-contamination and simplify hazard management.

Decomposed material can ignite; use dry powder or CO2 extinguishers. Keep ignition sources away from storage and handling areas.

Contain with non-combustible absorbent, avoid dust clouds, and clean per SDS. Dispose as hazardous waste through licensed services.

Skin: wash with soap and water. Eyes: rinse 15 minutes. Inhalation: move to fresh air. Ingestion: seek medical care and provide the SDS.

Powder grades can form explosive dust clouds. Use dust-control ventilation and grounded equipment during transfer.

SADT is the temperature at which packaged azo initiator undergoes self-accelerating decomposition. Storage and transport must stay below SADT.

Strong acids/bases can alter decomposition behavior. Avoid contact and follow the SDS incompatibility list.

Transport uses temperature-controlled, properly packaged containers per ADR/IMDG where required. Azox provides shipping documentation.

Training in SDS interpretation, decomposition hazards, ventilation, and spill response. Azox provides safety summaries and training support.

Yes, mechanical ventilation preventing accumulation of decomposition gases is recommended, especially for bulk storage.

Brief handling is acceptable with PPE, but avoid prolonged exposure and dust generation. Use closed or local-exhaust systems for transfers.

Fire extinguishers, eye wash, safety shower, spill kit, and accessible SDS. Storage should have appropriate electrical classification.

Through licensed hazardous waste services; do not discard in drains or trash. Azox can advise compliant disposal.

They are generally not corrosive but can irritate skin and eyes. Treat as irritants and handle with standard chemical PPE.

Only within documented safe limits using warmed (not boiling) media. Excessive heat causes premature decomposition.

Half-life depends on the specific compound; AIBN's 10-hour half-life is near 65 deg C. Azox provides half-life tables and TDS data per product.

Purity is measured by HPLC/GC and titration, with residual solvent and ash reported. Azox performs batch testing and documents results in the CoA.

Standard Azox AIBN assay is 98 percent or higher, with low residual solvent for sensitive uses. Exact values are in the CoA.

Azox supplies powders and free-flowing granules in various mesh sizes for dosing and dispersion. Custom particle size is available.

Gas volume (N2) per gram is product-specific and used to calculate blowing-agent loading. Azox provides gas-yield data for foaming grades.

Moisture is controlled by drying and sealed packaging; Karl Fischer values are reported for grades where moisture matters.

Low ash is maintained for electronic and optical grades. Azox reports ash in the CoA for relevant products.

Yes, Azox offers blends and custom activities, including combinations with co-agents, under confidentiality agreements.

Activation energy characterizes temperature sensitivity of decomposition rate; Azox provides kinetic data on request for modeling.

Residual solvent is measured by GC headspace analysis. Low-solvent grades are available for food-contact and electronics.

Bulk density depends on particle form, typically 0.3-0.7 g/cm3. Azox reports bulk density for handling design.

Yes, selected azo grades are available as aqueous dispersions for emulsion processes. Azox supplies dispersion grades.

Appearance (color, form) is a quality indicator; Azox documents acceptable ranges and flags deviations in the CoA.

Assay uses validated methods against reference standards with stated uncertainty. Azox follows ISO-aligned procedures.

Only with compatible, approved diluents within safe limits. Follow Azox guidelines to avoid premature decomposition.

Most Azox products store below 25 deg C; some below 20 deg C. Exact temperatures and SADT are in the SDS and label.

Azox products for the EU are REACH registered where applicable. Do Sender Chem maintains dossiers and provides confirmation.

US-market products are listed or exempt on TSCA as required; equivalents exist for other regions. Our team confirms status per destination.

Azo initiators are typically classified as Self-reactive substances or with specific hazard statements; Azox labels follow GHS and local rules.

Depending on activity and form, azo initiators may be regulated as self-reactive substances under ADR/IMDG/ICAO. Azox provides proper shipping names and UN numbers.

Yes, our regulatory affairs team supports registrations, import licenses, and compliance documentation leveraging local partners.

Each shipment includes SDS, CoA, and where required transport and regulatory statements. Digital copies are available.

Some grades meet food-contact after depletion; compliance letters and extractable data are available for qualifying uses.

Use calibrated logging thermometers with alarms below SADT. Azox advises on storage design for bulk users.

Retain SDS, CoA, batch numbers, and storage logs for traceability and audits. Azox batch numbers enable full tracking.

MOQ is 50 kg for trial and 200 kg for regular shipments; samples (50-500 g) are available for qualified buyers. Azox is flexible on volume.

Yes, our team supports polymerization and foaming applications with selection, optimization, and troubleshooting. Contact technical@dosenderchem.com.

Yes, every shipment includes a batch-specific CoA with assay and quality parameters in PDF, hard copy on request.

Yes, for established customers with regular volume, JIT programs with safety stock are available. Contact sales to discuss.

Azox is supplied in drums, pails, and lined fiber drums with UN-approved packaging. Custom pack sizes available for large accounts.

Standard grades ship in 1-2 weeks; custom blends may take 3-6 weeks. Lead time is confirmed at order.

Yes, samples of standard grades are available for qualified evaluation. Submit a request with intended application; we respond within 2 business days.

Yes, Azox offers tailored blends and activities under confidentiality agreements. Contact our technical team.

Standard terms are T/T with deposit; established customers may qualify for net-30 or LC. Terms are in the quotation.

Azox is distributed through regional partners. Use the Distributor Locator or contact sales@dosenderchem.com.

Yes, private-label arrangements are possible for strategic partners. Discuss with our commercial team.

Multi-site production supports standard and custom volumes with redundancy for supply security. Capacity shared under NDA.

Pricing depends on grade, volume, Incoterms, and destination. Request a formal quotation with specs for a prompt response.

Yes, application engineers assist with scorch, foam defects, and residue issues via lab analysis and on-site visits.

Apply via the 'Become a Distributor' form. We evaluate market coverage, technical capability, and compliance before partnering.