Dioxybenzone is a chemical compound commonly found in sunscreen products. Its significance lies in its ability to absorb and dissipate harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, thereby providing protection against sunburn and other forms of skin damage. As such, Dioxybenzone plays a crucial role in promoting sun safety and reducing the risk of skin cancer, making it a key component in many individuals’ daily skincare routines.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Dioxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-8, is commonly used in commercial and industrial applications as a UV filter in various skincare products such as sunscreens and lotions. Its ability to absorb UV radiation makes it an essential component in products designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure.
In addition to its role in UV protection, Dioxybenzone is also used in the production of plastic materials to enhance their resistance to UV radiation and improve their durability. This makes it a valuable additive in the manufacturing of items such as packaging materials, automotive parts, and outdoor furniture, where exposure to sunlight can cause degradation over time.
In terms of drug and medication applications, Dioxybenzone is used topically in combination with other active ingredients to treat conditions such as acne and hyperpigmentation. Its ability to absorb UV radiation makes it a valuable component in skincare products designed to protect the skin from further damage while addressing specific skin concerns.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Dioxybenzone is a white crystalline solid with a slight odor. It has a molecular weight of approximately 226.25 g/mol and a density of about 1.65 g/cm3. In comparison, common food items such as sugar and salt have lower molar mass values and densities.
The melting point of Dioxybenzone ranges from 62-65°C, while the boiling point is approximately 170-180°C. These values are considerably higher than those of most common food items, which typically have melting points below 100°C and boiling points below 200°C.
Dioxybenzone is sparingly soluble in water, but it is more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol. It also has a relatively high viscosity, making it thicker than most common food items when dissolved in liquids. In contrast, many food items are highly soluble in water and have lower viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Dioxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-8, is a chemical compound that is primarily produced through a multi-step synthesis process involving the reaction of benzophenone with chlorosulfonic acid and subsequent neutralization with sodium hydroxide. This results in the formation of Dioxybenzone as an intermediate product which undergoes further purification steps to obtain the final compound in high purity.
In order to procure Dioxybenzone, it can be sourced from chemical suppliers who specialize in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals. The compound is typically available in the form of a white crystalline powder or solid flakes, packaged in containers of various sizes based on usage requirements. Dioxybenzone can be transported via standard shipping methods such as air, sea, or land freight in accordance with regulatory guidelines for handling hazardous chemicals.
For industrial applications requiring large quantities of Dioxybenzone, bulk orders can be placed directly with manufacturers or distributors to ensure a stable and continuous supply. It is important to adhere to proper storage and handling procedures to maintain the integrity and stability of Dioxybenzone during transportation and storage. Additionally, users must comply with relevant safety regulations and guidelines to minimize risks associated with the handling of chemical substances like Dioxybenzone.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for Dioxybenzone:
Dioxybenzone is a chemical compound commonly used in sunscreen and other personal care products as a UV filter. When handling Dioxybenzone, it is important to be aware of its potential hazards. This chemical may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact and can be harmful if ingested. Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when working with Dioxybenzone to prevent adverse health effects.
Furthermore, Dioxybenzone should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible materials to minimize the risk of fire or explosion. It is also crucial to follow proper disposal procedures for Dioxybenzone to prevent environmental contamination and harm to living organisms. Overall, understanding and implementing safety measures are essential in handling Dioxybenzone to ensure the well-being of individuals and protect the environment.
Hazard Statements for Dioxybenzone:
Dioxybenzone poses several hazards that individuals should be aware of when working with this chemical. Hazard statements for Dioxybenzone include causing skin and eye irritation upon contact. In addition, Dioxybenzone may be harmful if ingested, leading to potential health risks. It is important to handle Dioxybenzone with caution and use appropriate protective measures to minimize the likelihood of adverse effects on health.
Precautionary Statements for Dioxybenzone:
To ensure safe handling of Dioxybenzone, it is important to follow precautionary statements provided by regulatory agencies and product manufacturers. These precautionary statements include wearing protective gloves and goggles when working with Dioxybenzone to prevent skin and eye irritation. Additionally, it is recommended to store Dioxybenzone in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources to reduce the risk of fire or explosion. Proper disposal procedures should also be followed to prevent environmental contamination and harm. By adhering to precautionary statements, individuals can minimize the potential risks associated with handling Dioxybenzone.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions of Dioxybenzone, a compound commonly used in sunscreens, may include investigating its effectiveness in protecting against different types of ultraviolet radiation beyond UVB and UVA. Research could also focus on exploring potential long-term health effects of Dioxybenzone on the skin and the body as a whole. Additionally, studies could aim to improve the formulation of sunscreens containing Dioxybenzone to make them more stable and effective in various environmental conditions.
Further research on Dioxybenzone could investigate its impact on marine ecosystems, as this compound has been found in significant amounts in marine environments due to sunscreen run-off. Examining ways to mitigate the environmental impact of Dioxybenzone from sunscreens could be a crucial area of study. Additionally, exploring alternative compounds that offer similar UV protection properties but have lesser environmental impact could be a potential research direction to consider.
The potential use of Dioxybenzone in other cosmetic products beyond sunscreens could be an area worth exploring. Research could investigate its stability, efficacy, and safety when used in different formulations such as moisturizers, lip balms, or makeup. Furthermore, studying the potential interactions of Dioxybenzone with other common cosmetic ingredients could provide valuable insights for product development and consumer safety.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Dioxybenzone based on molecular structure is Oxybenzone. Oxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-3, is an organic compound used in sunscreens to absorb UVB and short UVA rays. It is structurally similar to Dioxybenzone, with both compounds containing benzophenone groups within their molecular structures. Oxybenzone also has a benzophenone core connected to two oxybenzone groups, similar to Dioxybenzone.
Another compound similar to Dioxybenzone is Sulisobenzone. Sulisobenzone, also known as benzophenone-4, is a derivative of benzophenone and is commonly used in sunscreens for its ability to absorb UVB rays. Like Dioxybenzone, Sulisobenzone contains benzophenone groups in its molecular structure, making them structurally similar. Sulisobenzone has a benzophenone core connected to a sulfonate group, giving it similar characteristics to Dioxybenzone.
One additional compound similar to Dioxybenzone is Avobenzone. Avobenzone, also known as butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, is an organic compound used in sunscreens for its ability to absorb a wide range of UVA rays. Structurally, Avobenzone contains dibenzoylmethane groups, similar to the benzophenone groups found in Dioxybenzone. Both compounds have aromatic rings linked by carbonyl groups, making them structurally similar in terms of molecular composition.
