Diepoxybutane describes organic compounds with the formula . Three isomers are possible, a pair of enantiomers and a meso isomer. These compounds represent the simplest double epoxide. The isomers a colorless liquids.
Diepoxybutane is used as a chemical intermediate, as a cross-linking agent for polymers and textiles, and as a preservative.Diepoxybutane Report on Carcinogens, Twelfth Edition (2011)
t is prepared by ring closing reactions from an acetal derived from threitol.
Reactions and uses It reacts with Grignard reagents to undergo ring-opening reactions.
Diepoxybutane is prone to polymerization.
Diepoxybutane (DEB test) to screen for Fanconi anemia (FA) among patients with bone marrow failure syndromes.
DEB effects DNA crosslinking.
Toxicity and hazards Diepoxybutane irritates the nose, throat and lungs, causing coughing and shortness of breath. Skin exposure can cause chemical burns. Longer exposure periods can cause pulmonary edema, and damage to the liver and kidneys.New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (2000). Hazardous Substances Fact Sheet. 984-2202 (609). Retrieved 2023-03-20. https://nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/0685.pdf.
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