An information resource on the plasticiser butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP)

Laying PVC flooring tilesBBP - a plasticiser critical for the efficiency of plastic processing

Butyl Benzyl Phthalate is an unusual plasticiser because of its chemical asymmetry which results in unique performance properties. Its production process is also different from other well known phthalates.

More than 90% of BBP is used for plasticising PVC or other polymers. Plasticisers are in general high boiling point compounds that, when incorporated into a polymer, cause a greater flexibility and workability of the material.

The plasticiser that saves energy and improves life quality

One of the manufacturing benefits of using BBP is that it allows PVC transformers to operate with less energy input than with many similar plasticisers.

The BBP-plasticised polymeric material has consumer and industrial uses such as flooring, sealants, and coatings.

It is used widely by the flooring industry because it adds surface properties to flooring materials that minimise maintenance and give it a prolonged life.

Butyl Benzyl Phthalate is also a critical component in seals for insulating double glazing, providing personal comfort and considerable energy savings to homeowners, businesses and public authorities.

Although BBP constitutes only a small fraction of the total phthalate plasticisers in everyday use it is  nevertheless among the best documented plasticisers and chemicals. A large body of scientific evidence accumulated since the early 1960s by industry and academia has demonstrated that BBP can be safely used and without harm to human health or the environment. 

For information on the safe use of BBP please see the EU risk assessment

BBP at a glance

BBP structureButyl Benzyl Phthalate 
CAS No 85-68-7

Molecular formula: C19H20O4

Molecular weight (theoretical): 312.35

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