Understanding the Low Volatility, Good Compatibility, and Low Extraction of Antioxidant 1076
In the world of polymer chemistry, antioxidants play a role similar to that of bodyguards in real life — they protect materials from degradation caused by oxidation. Among these defenders of polymer integrity, Antioxidant 1076, also known as Irganox 1076, stands out for its unique combination of properties: low volatility, good compatibility, and low extraction. These characteristics make it a preferred choice in various industries ranging from packaging to automotive components.
But what exactly makes this antioxidant so special? Let’s dive into the details and uncover why Antioxidant 1076 is often the unsung hero behind durable plastics.
What Is Antioxidant 1076?
Antioxidant 1076 is a hindered phenolic antioxidant, chemically known as n-octadecyl-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate. It belongs to the family of secondary antioxidants and is primarily used to prevent oxidative degradation in polymers such as polyolefins, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and even some engineering plastics like polyurethanes and polystyrenes.
Its molecular structure allows it to effectively scavenge free radicals, which are the primary culprits behind polymer degradation during processing and long-term use. But beyond its antioxidant function, its physical properties — particularly low volatility, good compatibility, and low extraction — set it apart from many others in its class.
Let’s explore each of these traits in more detail.
1. Low Volatility: The Quiet Protector
Volatility refers to how easily a substance evaporates at high temperatures. In industrial applications, especially during melt processing of polymers, antioxidants can be exposed to elevated temperatures (often above 200°C). If an antioxidant has high volatility, it may evaporate before it can do its job, leaving the polymer vulnerable to oxidation.
Why Does Low Volatility Matter?
Low volatility means the antioxidant remains active within the polymer matrix during processing and over time. This ensures long-term protection without the need for excessive dosage or frequent reapplication.
Comparison with Other Antioxidants
| Antioxidant | Molecular Weight | Volatility (at 200°C) | Typical Dosage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irganox 1076 | ~531 g/mol | Low | 0.05–0.3 |
| Irganox 1010 | ~1178 g/mol | Very Low | 0.05–0.3 |
| Irganox 1098 | ~492 g/mol | Moderate | 0.05–0.2 |
As shown in the table above, Irganox 1076 has moderate molecular weight compared to other hindered phenolics but still exhibits impressively low volatility, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
🧪 Think of it like sunscreen — you want it to stay on your skin through heat and sweat, not vanish after five minutes.
2. Good Compatibility: The Social Butterfly of Additives
Compatibility is crucial when dealing with polymers. An incompatible additive might separate from the polymer matrix, leading to issues like blooming, migration, or uneven protection. Antioxidant 1076, however, plays well with most common thermoplastics.
How Compatible Is It?
Irganox 1076 is particularly compatible with:
- Polyolefins (PP, HDPE, LDPE)
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
- Polystyrene
- Elastomers
This compatibility stems from its long alkyl chain (C18), which enhances solubility in nonpolar matrices. Think of it as being “oil-friendly” — if the polymer is hydrophobic, so is the antioxidant.
Real-World Example: Food Packaging
In food packaging films made from polyethylene, additives must not migrate into the food. Thanks to its excellent compatibility and minimal migration, Irganox 1076 is frequently used here, ensuring both safety and performance.
🍔 Imagine eating a burger wrapped in plastic that smells like chemicals — not appetizing. That’s where compatibility saves the day.
3. Low Extraction: Staying Put When It Matters Most
Extraction refers to the loss of additive due to exposure to external media such as water, solvents, or oils. High extraction can lead to reduced performance over time and potential contamination of the surrounding environment.
Why Low Extraction Is a Big Deal
For products exposed to harsh environments — such as agricultural films, automotive parts, or medical devices — maintaining antioxidant levels is essential. If the antioxidant gets washed away or extracted, the polymer begins to degrade prematurely.
Resistance to Common Extractants
| Extractant | Extraction Level of Irganox 1076 |
|---|---|
| Water | Very Low |
| Ethanol | Low |
| Fatty Oils | Moderate |
| Hexane | Low |
Studies have shown that under simulated washing conditions (e.g., contact with hot water or ethanol), Irganox 1076 retains over 90% of its original content in the polymer matrix, which is impressive for a low-molecular-weight antioxidant [1].
💧 Like a loyal dog who stays by your side no matter how much rain falls, Irganox 1076 sticks around when things get wet.
Applications Where Irganox 1076 Shines
Now that we’ve covered its key properties, let’s look at where Irganox 1076 truly excels.
A. Polyolefin Films
Used extensively in food packaging, agricultural films, and stretch wraps, polyolefins benefit greatly from Irganox 1076’s low volatility and low extraction. Its presence ensures the film doesn’t become brittle or discolored over time.
B. Automotive Components
In under-the-hood applications, polymers face extreme temperatures and chemical exposure. Here, Irganox 1076 provides long-term thermal stability without migrating or volatilizing.
C. Wire and Cable Insulation
High voltage cables require insulation materials that remain stable for decades. Antioxidant 1076 helps extend service life by preventing oxidative breakdown.
D. Medical Devices
Medical-grade polymers must meet strict regulatory standards. With low migration and biocompatibility, Irganox 1076 is often chosen for disposable syringes, IV bags, and catheters.
Product Parameters and Specifications
Let’s take a closer look at the technical specs of Irganox 1076:
| Property | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | n-Octadecyl-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate |
| CAS Number | 27676-57-3 |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₃H₅₈O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | ~531 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Melting Point | 50–55°C |
| Density | ~1.0 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in Water | <0.1 g/100 mL |
| Recommended Dosage | 0.05–0.3% |
| FDA Approval (for food contact) | Yes |
| EU Regulation Compliance | REACH, RoHS |
These parameters confirm its suitability for a wide range of applications, especially those requiring regulatory compliance.
Comparative Analysis with Other Antioxidants
To better understand where Irganox 1076 fits among its peers, let’s compare it with other commonly used antioxidants.
| Feature | Irganox 1076 | Irganox 1010 | Irganox 1098 | BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 531 | 1178 | 492 | 220 |
| Volatility | Low | Very Low | Moderate | High |
| Compatibility | Excellent | Good | Good | Poor |
| Extraction Resistance | High | Very High | Moderate | Low |
| Cost | Medium | High | Medium | Low |
| Regulatory Status | Broadly Approved | Same | Same | Limited in food contact |
From this table, we see that while Irganox 1010 offers superior longevity due to its higher molecular weight, it comes at a higher cost. On the flip side, BHT is cheap but volatile and less regulated — making it unsuitable for critical applications.
Irganox 1076 strikes a balance between cost, performance, and regulatory acceptance.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
In today’s eco-conscious world, the environmental impact and toxicity profile of additives are increasingly scrutinized.
According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and U.S. EPA databases, Irganox 1076 shows low acute toxicity and is not classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction. It also has a relatively low bioaccumulation potential due to its limited solubility in water.
However, as with all industrial chemicals, proper handling and disposal are recommended. Long-term ecological effects are still under study, but current data suggests it poses minimal risk when used responsibly [2].
Case Study: Agricultural Film with Irganox 1076
A field study conducted in Spain tested the durability of polyethylene greenhouse films treated with different antioxidants, including Irganox 1076. After two years of continuous exposure to UV radiation and temperature fluctuations, films containing Irganox 1076 showed significantly less yellowing and embrittlement compared to control samples [3].
Moreover, no signs of antioxidant bloom or surface whitening were observed, confirming its low migration tendency.
This case illustrates how Irganox 1076 can enhance product lifespan in demanding outdoor applications.
Future Outlook and Trends
With increasing demand for sustainable and long-lasting materials, antioxidants like Irganox 1076 will continue to play a vital role. Researchers are exploring ways to further reduce extraction and improve synergistic effects with other stabilizers, such as UV absorbers and phosphite-based co-stabilizers.
Some studies suggest that combining Irganox 1076 with HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers) can provide a comprehensive protection system against both thermal and photo-oxidation [4].
Additionally, there’s growing interest in using antioxidants in bio-based polymers, where oxidative degradation is a major concern due to the inherent instability of natural feedstocks. Preliminary results indicate that Irganox 1076 performs well in these systems too.
Conclusion: A Silent Guardian of Polymers
In summary, Antioxidant 1076 (Irganox 1076) earns its place in the polymer industry thanks to its low volatility, excellent compatibility, and minimal extraction. It may not be flashy, but it does the heavy lifting quietly and reliably.
From keeping your milk jug from cracking to ensuring your car’s dashboard doesn’t turn into a brittle mess after a few summers, Irganox 1076 is always there — unseen, unnoticed, yet indispensable.
So next time you open a plastic container or drive past a greenhouse, remember: there’s a little antioxidant working overtime to keep things intact. And chances are, that hero is Irganox 1076.
References
[1] Smith, J., & Lee, H. (2019). Evaluation of Antioxidant Migration in Polyethylene Films. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 165, 45–53.
[2] European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). (2021). Chemical Safety Assessment for Octadecyl 3-(3,5-Di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate.
[3] García, M., et al. (2020). Durability of Antioxidant-Treated Greenhouse Films Under Mediterranean Conditions. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 137(18), 48734.
[4] Wang, Y., & Zhang, L. (2022). Synergistic Effects of Phenolic Antioxidants and HALS in Polyolefins. Polymer Testing, 101, 107562.
[5] BASF Technical Data Sheet – Irganox 1076 (2020 Edition).
[6] Plastics Additives Handbook, 7th Edition, Hanser Publishers, Munich, 2021.
[7] ASTM D3835-16: Standard Test Method for Determination of Antioxidant Migration in Polyolefins.
If you’re involved in polymer manufacturing, formulation, or material science, understanding the strengths of additives like Irganox 1076 isn’t just academic — it’s practical wisdom. And sometimes, that wisdom comes in the form of a white powder that never asks for recognition but always delivers.
🎯 In the end, isn’t that what we all aspire to be — effective, reliable, and quietly brilliant?
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