Overview
4-tert-Butylbenzoic acid (CAS 98-73-7 ), also known as PTBBA or TBBA, is an aromatic carboxylic acid used as a modifier, stabilizer, and catalyst component across coatings, polymer, and personal care manufacturing.
Its primary commercial role is controlling molecular weight, improving UV stability, and acting as a ligand or precursor in catalytic systems. In alkyd and polyester resin production, it functions as a chain-stopper.
This chemical helps to regulate molecular weight and improve coating hardness and gloss. Polymer manufacturers incorporate it as a nucleating agent modifier and stabilizer in polypropylene and other thermoplastics.
These applications influence crystallization behavior and end-product clarity. In personal care formulations, it serves as a UV stabilizer and antioxidant component in sunscreen bases and protective cosmetic products.
The compound also acts as a ligand precursor in Ziegler-Natta and related catalyst systems used in polyolefin production. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder or flakes for industrial use.
Technical and industrial grades are the standard commercial offering, with purity levels typically at 99% or higher. Packaging is available in bags and drums suited to bulk industrial procurement needs.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 164.5-165.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 222-224 °C |
| Density | 1.045 g/cm 3 (30°C) |
| Flash Point | 180 °C |
| Appearance | WHITE TO YELLOW FLAKES |
| Color | White to Off-White |
| Form | Solid |
| Water Solubility | 0.07 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.01 hPa (20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.5201 (estimate) |
| pH | 3.9 (H2O, 20℃)(saturated solution) |
| Log P | 3.4 at 21℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS07 GHS08 GHS09 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H320 Causes eye irritation H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H370 Causes damage to organs H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H401 Toxic to aquatic life H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. 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. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P305+P351+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 | 29163900 |
| UN Number | 2811 |
| ADR Class | 6.1 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 6.1D - Non-combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic hazardous materials or hazardous materials causing chronic effects |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 98-73-7
- EC Number
- 202-696-3
- Mol. Weight
- 178.23
- HS Code
- 29163900
- Category
- Catalysts & Catalyst Precursors