Diallyl phthalate (DAP) is an organic compound with the formula C6H4(CO2CH2CHCH2)2. Like most other phthalate esters, it is a colorless oil although commercial samples can appear yellowish. It is synthesized by treating phthalic anhydride with allyl alcohol.
Applications
Diallyl phthalate is a widely used as a plasticizer in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It enhances tensile strength and elongation at break (the ratio of the final and initial lengths of material before breaking), and also acts as a chain extender due to the allyl groups that can form cross-links between PVC chains.
DAP is a plasticizer used to produce thermosetting resins, laminates, and varnishes as well as impregnation of metal castings in aerospace and military electrical components. This is due to its reliability in extreme conditions, with properties such as electrical and thermal insulation, ability to withstand high humidity, water resistance, chemical resistance, and molding. It resists dimensional change in high-heat environments, such as soldering. It is used in organic solvent-free UV printing inks due to its quick-drying ability, as well as construction materials.
Environmental aspects DAP has been widely studied, especially in as a potential endocrine disruptor.
References