Dibutyl oxalate

CAS: 2050-60-4

Overview

Dibutyl oxalate (CAS 2050-60-4 ), also known as butyl oxalate, is a dibutyl ester of oxalic acid used industrially as a plasticizer and specialty solvent. It functions as a processing aid in polymer systems and a carrier in formulations.

This chemical is utilized where controlled solvency and compatibility with organic substrates are required. In plastics and polymer processing, it acts as a plasticizer to improve flexibility and workability in resin systems.

It is particularly effective where ester-type compatibility is needed for specific manufacturing goals. Lubricant and metalworking formulators incorporate it as a functional additive or carrier fluid in cutting fluids.

The compound is also found in specialty lubricant blends and serves as a solvent or co-solvent in coating formulations. Controlled evaporation and resin compatibility are critical to the final film performance.

Its ester character makes it a candidate for use in polymer synthesis as a reactive intermediate or processing solvent. This versatility allows for broad application across various chemical manufacturing sectors.

Dibutyl oxalate is supplied as a clear liquid in standard industrial packaging, including drums and intermediate bulk containers. Technical grade is the primary commercial specification available.

Purity levels typically range from 98% to 99%+, with high-purity grades available for more demanding applications. These specifications ensure reliability for industrial and polymer formulation requirements.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-30.5 °C
Boiling Point	241 °C
Density	1.047 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point	228 °F
Appearance	clear colourless liquid
Color	Colorless to Almost colorless
Odor	Faint, nondescript odor between fruity and wincy, rather pleasant but weak.
Form	clear liquid
Water Solubility	Practically insoluble in water
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.423(lit.)
Log P	2.742 (est)

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS08 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H315 Causes skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H318 Causes serious eye damage H335 May cause respiratory irritation H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure Precautionary Statements P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29171190
Storage Class	10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)	3

Other Names

Industries

Lubricants & Metalworking Plastics & Polymers