m-Diisopropylbenzene, also known as 1,3-Diisopropylbenzene, ranks among aromatic hydrocarbons widely used across chemical and industrial manufacturing. Its molecular structure consists of a benzene ring attached to two isopropyl groups at the meta positions, giving it the molecular formula C12H18. As someone who’s closely followed fine chemicals for years, this compound stands out in terms of versatility and value in synthesis pathways.
In its pure state, m-Diisopropylbenzene shows clear liquid characteristics at room temperature and might appear as colorless solid crystals if cooled. It carries a faint aromatic odor typical of many benzene derivatives. Talking density, C12H18 sits at around 0.86 g/cm³—distinctly less dense than water—making spills or separation in mixtures easier to notice and manage in labs or large-scale production sites. Boiling point charts list a value close to 245°C, pushing the compound well above water’s range, useful for high-temp distillation and specialty solvent applications. Melting point falls near -23°C, so in most settings, it pours freely unless subjected to sub-freezing storage.
With a molecular structure rooted in aromatic chemistry, m-Diisopropylbenzene brings two isopropyl groups to the 1 and 3 positions on a benzene core, lending the molecule stability and a predictable reactivity profile. This aromatic core means the compound resists breakdown under regular environmental conditions, lending safety in long-term storage. From academic and hands-on experience, I’ve seen that having these isopropyl groups shields the benzene ring at select positions, reducing the risk from reactive agents under normal manufacturing conditions.
Industry relies on m-Diisopropylbenzene for several distinct roles: it serves as an intermediate for synthetic lubricants, antioxidants, and specialty monomers. Refineries often use it as a raw material when building customized aromatic substances. Its place in resin production and other specialty polymers reflects advantages in both purity and manageable physical traits. In lab research, it gives chemists a predictable backbone for substitution or oxidative cleavage, offering creative synthesis routes. From experience, users see its relative chemical inertness as a positive, since it doesn’t readily break down or form unwanted side-products.
Suppliers typically provide m-Diisopropylbenzene in either liquid or crystalline form, depending on the scale and user requirements. Commercial batches must meet strict purity standards—99% or higher—to avoid interference during further synthesis. Bulk purchases often come by liter in sealed drums to protect against evaporation losses or atmospheric moisture absorption. Some research suppliers pack m-Diisopropylbenzene as solid flakes or small pearls if the compound is held below freezing for safer transportation or precise weighing. Handling the liquid feels straightforward: it pours smoothly, does not stick, and responds well during transfer thanks to its moderate viscosity. Each batch carries its CAS number and HS code; for global trade, HS code 2902.49.99 covers substituted aromatic hydrocarbons like m-Diisopropylbenzene, ensuring customs and logistics teams can move shipments without ambiguity.
Safety information remains a must: m-Diisopropylbenzene counts as a flammable liquid. Its vapors could ignite, so it requires careful containment away from open flames and strict adherence to ventilation rules. Prolonged exposure through inhalation or skin contact can cause irritation, much like other simple hydrocarbons, so gloves and chemical goggles are recommended when transferring even small amounts. Industrial safety data sheets place it in a moderate hazard class with emergency protocols for spills and fire. Every time I see containers labeled for flammable aromatics, I remember the importance of proper grounding during drum transfer to dissipate static and avoid accidental ignition—a lesson hammered in by years of chemical plant audits. Environmentally, releases into waterways or soil should be avoided; while the molecule breaks down under sustained exposure to sunlight (photolysis), it lingers long enough to pose potential harm to aquatic life. Responsible storage, disposal, and spill management keep risks in check.
Refining processes start with petroleum streams, extracting and purifying benzene before selective alkylation using propylene. The catalytic reactors used for this step demand tight thermal and compositional controls; the isopropyl groups add to the aromatic ring at specific sites to avoid over-alkylation and waste. Knowing where raw materials originate matters for global supply chains—regional variations in petroleum output or access to precursor chemicals can affect bulk price and long-term sourcing agreements. Most chemical plants must vet their feedstock quality to prevent impurity carryover, affecting downstream yields.
To make use of m-Diisopropylbenzene safely, facilities need reliable labeling systems, up-to-date safety training, and properly fitted personal protective equipment. Implementing closed-system transfers where possible reduces exposure risks. Local rules concerning flammable materials and secondary containment demand careful planning, and sharing best practices at staff meetings pays off in real incident prevention. On the disposal front, sending unused or spill-contaminated product to licensed chemical waste processors prevents environmental mishaps downstream. In my own experience, transparent recordkeeping and periodic inventory checks give teams a clear sense of remaining stock and potential end-of-life scenarios, all while staying on the right side of regulatory audits.
Molecular Formula: C12H18 Molecular Weight: 162.27 g/mol Density: 0.86 g/cm³ at 20°C Boiling Point: 245°C Melting Point: -23°C HS Code: 2902.49.99 Physical Description: colorless liquid or crystalline solid, faint aromatic odor Common Forms: liquid (bulk), crystals, flakes, pearls (low-temp storage)
