Dibutyltin oxide
[CAS# 818-08-6]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organotin
• Name: Dibutyltin oxide
• Synonyms: Dibutyloxotin
• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₈OSn
• Molecular Weight: 248.92
• CAS Registry Number: 818-08-6
• EC Number: 212-449-1
• SMILES: CCCC[Sn](=O)CCCC

Properties

• Density: 1.583 g/mL
• Melting point: >300 °C
• Water solubility: 4.0 mg/L (20 °C)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS06;GHS07;GHS08;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H301-H315-H317-H318-H341-H360-H360FD-H370-H372-H373-H400-H410-H411
• Safety Statements: P203-P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P272-P273-P280-P301+P316-P302+P352-P305+P354+P338-P308+P316-P317-P318-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P333+P317-P362+P364-P391-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Germ cell mutagenicity	Muta.	2	H341
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H372
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H370
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1A	H360
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360FD
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361d
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H300
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	2	H401
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H302
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H360
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H318
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H373
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1B	H317

• Transport Information: UN 3146

Discovery and Applications

Dibutyltin oxide (DBTO) is a chemical compound with the formula C₈H₁₈O₂Sn, notable for its applications in various industrial processes and materials science. This compound was first synthesized in the mid-20th century, during extensive research into organotin compounds, which were investigated for their unique properties and potential applications. Dibutyltin oxide emerged as a significant product due to its distinctive structural features, where a central tin atom is coordinated to two butyl groups and an oxide group.

DBTO is primarily used as a catalyst in the production of polyurethanes, where it promotes the reaction between isocyanates and polyols. This catalytic property allows for efficient polymerization, resulting in materials with desirable mechanical and thermal properties. The use of dibutyltin oxide in polyurethane production has enabled the development of various applications, including foams, elastomers, and coatings, which are essential in industries such as automotive, construction, and textiles.

In addition to its role as a catalyst, dibutyltin oxide serves as a stabilizer in PVC (polyvinyl chloride) formulations. It enhances the thermal stability and weather resistance of PVC products, making them more durable and suitable for outdoor applications. The incorporation of DBTO in PVC formulations has facilitated the production of pipes, window profiles, and other building materials that require longevity and resilience.

Another important application of dibutyltin oxide is in the field of biocides and antifouling agents. Its ability to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and prevent biofouling in marine environments has made it a valuable component in marine coatings. This application is particularly relevant for ships and offshore structures, where the accumulation of marine organisms can impair performance and increase maintenance costs.

Despite its beneficial applications, the use of dibutyltin oxide is subject to regulatory scrutiny due to environmental and health concerns associated with organotin compounds. Research has indicated that dibutyltin oxide can be toxic to aquatic organisms, leading to restrictions on its use in certain applications. Consequently, industries utilizing DBTO are encouraged to adopt safer alternatives and comply with environmental regulations.

Overall, dibutyltin oxide is a versatile compound with significant applications in catalysis, polymer stabilization, and antifouling technologies. Its discovery has paved the way for advancements in material science and industrial chemistry, although ongoing research and regulation are necessary to mitigate potential environmental impacts.

References

2023. Research on properties of poly(ether carbonate) polyurethane elastomers with mixed soft segments synthesized via melt polycondensation process. Chemical Papers, 77(5).
DOI: 10.1007/s11696-023-02681-y

2023. Synthesis, Structure, and Some Properties of Two Novel Organotin Aryloxyacetate. Russian Journal of General Chemistry, 93(6).
DOI: 10.1134/s1070363223060233

1968. Cyclic glycol ethers derived from dialkylstannanediols. Chemistry of Heterocyclic Compounds, 4(5).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00664831