For procurement managers and product formulators in the chemical and manufacturing industries, understanding the detailed specifications of raw materials like Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is fundamental to making informed purchasing decisions. DBP (CAS No. 84-74-2) is a critical plasticizer and solvent, and knowing its key parameters ensures optimal performance in end products.

Dibutyl Phthalate is typically supplied as a clear, transparent liquid with a minimal odor. When procuring DBP, manufacturers should pay close attention to its purity, often specified as Ester Content, which is usually required to be 99.5% or higher. High ester content signifies a pure and effective plasticizer, crucial for applications where consistent performance is paramount. Requesting a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from your supplier detailing this specification is standard practice.

Another vital parameter is the Color, often measured on the Platinum-Cobalt (Pt-Co) scale or APHA. For DBP, a low color index (e.g., ≤ 30 Pt-Co or ≤ 20 APHA) indicates high purity and absence of significant colored impurities, which is important for clear or lightly colored end products like certain coatings or films. For manufacturers buying DBP, ensuring a low color value prevents unwanted coloration in their final goods.

Acidity is another critical specification. The Acid Value, typically expressed in mg KOH/g, indicates the amount of free acid present. A low acid value (e.g., ≤ 0.1 mg KOH/g) is desirable, as excessive acidity can lead to unwanted reactions or degradation in the end product or processing equipment. This is especially relevant for sensitive applications like adhesives or specialized coatings where a neutral pH is maintained.

Moisture content is also key. Water can interfere with many chemical processes and can negatively impact the stability and performance of DBP-based formulations. Specifications usually list a maximum allowable moisture content, often as low as 0.1%. Manufacturers should ensure their sourced DBP meets these low moisture requirements to avoid processing issues.

Physical properties such as Relative Density and Density at a specific temperature (e.g., 20°C) are important for volumetric calculations and material handling. The typical density range for DBP is around 1.044-1.048 g/cm³ at 20°C. Flash Point is a crucial safety parameter, indicating the lowest temperature at which DBP vapors can ignite. A high flash point (e.g., ≥ 160°C) suggests lower flammability risk during handling and storage, which is a vital consideration for industrial safety protocols.

When sourcing DBP, especially in bulk from manufacturers in China, it's important to compare these specifications across different suppliers. While price is a significant factor, the lowest price may not always represent the best value if the product does not meet critical quality specifications. Understanding these technical details allows procurement professionals to effectively compare offerings and make an informed decision, ensuring they buy a product that aligns with their application requirements.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of Dibutyl Phthalate's specifications – including ester content, color, acidity, moisture, density, and flash point – is indispensable for smart procurement. By diligently reviewing these parameters and engaging with knowledgeable suppliers, B2B buyers can secure high-quality DBP, ensuring the performance and safety of their manufactured goods.