DIBASIC ESTER

Dibasic Ester, commonly abbreviated DBE and described as mixed dimethyl esters, is a mixture of dimethyl succinate, dimethyl glutarate and dimethyl adipate, commercially associated with CAS 95481-62-2 and used in coatings, inks, industrial cleaning and polymer manufacture. The ester blend is selected for its solvency toward suitable polar resins and its slow evaporation, which can extend film flow or cleaning contact time. Its ester groups interact with compatible organic materials while the component ratio controls the blend's evaporation, freezing and processing behavior.

CAS No: 95481-62-2
EC No: 906-170-0
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid for a representative mixed grade
Odor: Mild, fruity
Density: Approximately 1.09 g/cm3 at 20 °C for a representative blend
Distillation range: Approximately 196-225 °C for a representative blend
Flash point: Approximately 100 °C, Tag closed cup, for that reference blend
Water solubility: Limited, composition-dependent

WHAT IS DIBASIC ESTER?

Dibasic Ester (DBE) is a high-boiling solvent blend of C4-C6 dicarboxylic acid dimethyl esters used in coatings, printing inks, paint removal, resin cleaning and chemical synthesis. The commercial mixed-ester identifier CAS 95481-62-2 describes a product family rather than a fixed ratio of the three constituent esters.

In coating formulations, the blend can serve as a slowly evaporating tail solvent. In cleaning applications, extended liquid contact can help penetrate and swell susceptible resin deposits. Neither function establishes compatibility with every polymer or substrate.

One established manufacturing route esterifies recovered succinic, glutaric and adipic acid streams with methanol, followed by purification and distillation. Further fractionation produces grades enriched in individual esters or narrower blends. A recovered feedstock route does not establish the recycled content or certification of every supplier's product.

Commercial grades differ in ester ratio, water, residual methanol, acid value and color. These differences influence solvency, low-temperature handling and use in moisture-sensitive systems. Specify the composition rather than treating all mixed dimethyl ester products as interchangeable.

The free dibasic acids, individual pure esters and diisobutyl ester blends are different products. In particular, a pure succinate-rich fraction need not share the low freezing point of a three-component mixed grade.

COMMON PRODUCT & CHEMICAL NAMES OF DIBASIC ESTER:

Dibasic Ester
Dibasic Esters
DBE
Mixed dimethyl esters
Mixed aliphatic dimethyl esters
Dimethyl succinate / dimethyl glutarate / dimethyl adipate blend
Reaction mass of dimethyl adipate, dimethyl glutarate and dimethyl succinate
INVISTA DBE
DBE-LVP
DBE-3
DBE-4
DBE-5

The generic names describe the solvent family. The manufacturer name and numbered or LVP designations identify particular commercial grades, not universal synonyms. In one published manufacturer's range, the 3 grade is adipate-rich, the 4 grade is succinate-rich and the 5 grade is glutarate-rich. Those assignments must not be generalized to another supplier's numbering.

The abbreviation DME is ambiguous and should not be relied on for ordering. Free succinic, glutaric and adipic acids are not the same materials as their methyl esters, and longer-chain alcohol esters have different volatility and application profiles.

CAS NO, EC / LIST NO AND CHEMICAL IDENTIFICATION OF DIBASIC ESTER

Product name: Dibasic Ester
Common abbreviation: DBE
Chemical description: Mixed dimethyl esters of succinic, glutaric and adipic acids
Commercial CAS identifier: 95481-62-2
EC / List identifier for the reaction mass: 906-170-0
Other listed inventory identity: 619-131-5, associated with CAS 95481-62-2
Chemical class: Aliphatic dicarboxylic acid dimethyl ester blend
Main functions: Solvent, cleaning and stripping component, polymer intermediate

Component identities:

Dimethyl succinate: CAS 106-65-0, EC 203-419-9, C6H10O4, approximately 146.14 g/mol
Dimethyl glutarate: CAS 1119-40-0, EC 214-277-2, C7H12O4, approximately 160.17 g/mol
Dimethyl adipate: CAS 627-93-0, EC 211-020-6, C8H14O4, approximately 174.19 g/mol

The reaction-mass inventory entry and the CAS-associated entry are distinct records. Confirm the identity used in the supplied product's documents rather than assuming that every database uses the same entry. None of these identifiers determines the ester ratio.

The mixture has no single molecular formula or fixed molecular weight. Adding together one formula of each component does not create a molecular formula for the solvent. A published average near 159 g/mol applies only to its stated reference composition. For supply-specific REACH information, please contact Ataman Kimya.

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND MOLECULAR PROPERTIES OF DIBASIC ESTER

Each principal constituent has the structure CH3OOC-(CH2)n-COOCH3, where n is 2, 3 or 4. The two ester groups contain polar carbonyl and ether oxygen atoms, with hydrogen-bond-accepting capability but no hydroxyl hydrogen donors in the ideal diester molecules.

The blend's properties reflect both the ester functionality and the methylene segment. Molecular structure supports resin interactions, but does not guarantee that every resin dissolves. Physical state also depends on composition and temperature, so the three individual esters must not all be described as permanently liquid.

HOW DOES DIBASIC ESTER WORK AT THE MOLECULAR LEVEL?

Dipolar interactions and hydrogen-bond acceptance help the diesters solvate compatible resin segments. Diffusion into dried or cured films can cause swelling and reduce their adhesion, although strongly crosslinked coatings may respond slowly or incompletely.

The high-boiling blend can remain in a coating after faster solvents have left. This may improve flow, but excessive retention can delay drying or affect cure and film properties.

Main functions:

Solvating compatible binders and resin deposits
Adjusting the evaporation profile of solvent blends
Extending cleaning contact time
Contributing dicarboxylic units to polymer synthesis

As chemical intermediates, methyl esters can undergo transesterification or amidation, releasing methanol. Water with strong acid or alkali can promote hydrolysis. The material is therefore not universally non-reactive, and its behavior depends on temperature, moisture, catalysts and the surrounding formulation.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF DIBASIC ESTER

Representative published data for a standard three-ester blend:

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild, fruity
Typical ester distribution: Approximately 22% dimethyl succinate, 60% dimethyl glutarate and 18% dimethyl adipate
Distillation range: Approximately 196-225 °C
Density: Approximately 1.09 g/cm3 at 20 °C
Vapor pressure: Approximately 0.06 Torr, about 8 Pa, at 20 °C, calculated for the reference composition
Kinematic viscosity: Approximately 2.4 mm2/s at 25 °C
Freezing point: Approximately -20 °C for the reference mixture
Flash point: Approximately 100 °C, Tag closed cup
Solubility in water: Approximately 5.3% by mass at 20 °C for the reference mixture
Water dissolved in the ester phase: Approximately 3.1% by mass at 20 °C for the reference mixture

A published reference specification gives at least 99.0% ester content, no more than 0.1% water, no more than 0.2% methanol, an acid number no greater than 0.30 mg KOH/g and color no greater than 15 APHA. These are limits for a stated grade, not measured typical values or a universal contract specification.

The two water-solubility figures describe opposite directions of partitioning and must not be confused. Limited water miscibility does not prevent water pickup during storage or establish stability of an aqueous cleaner.

Low vapor pressure explains slow ambient evaporation, but heated application increases vapor exposure. Flash point concerns ignition under a defined test and does not mean that the liquid cannot burn.

Composition determines the distillation and freezing behavior. Water and acid value are important in moisture-sensitive or acid-sensitive formulations, while methanol and color need their own acceptance limits. For the offered grade's current composition and test methods, please contact Ataman Kimya.

SOLVENT REPLACEMENT AND VOC STATUS OF DIBASIC ESTER

DBE can be evaluated as part of replacements for high-boiling coating solvents and for alternative cleaning or stripping systems. The complete solvent balance, drying time, substrate compatibility and worker exposure must be assessed rather than assuming a direct equal-mass replacement.

Low volatility is not a universal VOC exemption. Certain tailored low-vapor-pressure grades are marketed for specific consumer-product rules, but that status does not automatically extend to every three-ester blend, coating category or jurisdiction. Establish the grade and applicable legal definition before calculating a product's VOC declaration.

Solvent substitution alone does not establish a safer finished product. Co-solvents, activators, process temperature and the materials being removed can alter the overall risk.

SECTORS AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS OF DIBASIC ESTER

The solvent and intermediate roles lead to different purchasing and performance requirements.

Main application areas:

Industrial, coil and other baking coatings
Printing inks and selected adhesives
Paint and graffiti removal
Industrial cleaning and resin cleanup
Polyester resins and polyester polyols
Wet-strength paper resins and other chemical intermediates
Selected foundry and agricultural carrier applications

DIBASIC ESTER IN COATINGS AND INKS

Purpose: Adjust solvency and the evaporation profile.
Function: Act as a high-boiling component in a compatible solvent package.
Performance effect: Can support flow, leveling and viscosity control.
Limitations: Residual solvent, drying, cure and final-film resistance require measurement.

DIBASIC ESTER IN CLEANING AND PAINT REMOVAL

Purpose: Remove susceptible resin, ink and coating deposits.
Function: Penetrate, swell or dissolve the target material.
Performance effect: Extended wet contact may improve cleaning action.
Limitations: Substrate attack, dwell time, rinsing and waste capture must be evaluated.

DIBASIC ESTER IN POLYMER MANUFACTURE

Purpose: Supply dicarboxylic units for selected polymer intermediates.
Function: Participate in ester-exchange or related reactions.
Performance effect: Composition allows adjustment of the polymer building blocks.
Limitations: Ester ratio and impurities affect reproducibility, while methanol removal requires controlled equipment. Reduced crystallinity or improved flexibility is not automatic in every polymer.

WHICH PROBLEMS CAN DIBASIC ESTER HELP SOLVE?

Insufficient film flow before drying
A slowly evaporating fraction may extend flow time, provided cure and solvent release remain adequate.

Rapid loss of cleaning solvent
Low volatility can extend liquid contact, although it can also increase the need for rinsing or residue removal.

Resin deposits resistant to the existing cleaner
Changing the solvent blend can improve swelling of selected deposits. Test the actual resin and substrate before adoption.

Inconsistent behavior between solvent deliveries
Specifying ester ratio, water and acid value helps separate composition changes from process variation.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN USING DIBASIC ESTER

A common error is treating all DBE grades as identical because their generic names match. Confirm the ratio and the complete formulation before substitution.

Account for the existing solvent in supplied resin solutions.
Check water limits in isocyanate-sensitive systems.
Evaluate hydrolysis in strongly acidic or alkaline cleaners.
Measure drying and residual solvent after reformulation.
Test seals, plastics and substrates for swelling.
Validate storage stability of water-containing emulsions.
Establish the applicable VOC definition for the destination market.

Provide ventilation, especially for heated or sprayed operations. Select gloves using permeation data for the complete blend and prevent eye contact with splash protection.

INITIAL FORMULATION APPROACHES FOR DIBASIC ESTER

These complete mass-balance examples are development screens, not validated commercial formulations. All percentages are by mass of the total mixture. Published cleaning work includes aqueous trials at 24% mixed esters, while coating examples use DBE as a partial solvent component. The remaining ingredient choices below are illustrative and require compatibility, safety and performance validation.

EXAMPLE 1: DIBASIC ESTER IN AN AQUEOUS CLEANING-EMULSION SCREEN

Components:

Deionized water: 71.80%
Dibasic Ester: 24.00%
Compatible nonionic emulsifier blend: 3.00%
Hydroxyethyl cellulose: 0.70%
Propylene glycol: 0.50%
Total: 100.00%

The emulsifier selection and incorporation method must be optimized for the ester grade. This is not a claim that the listed blend will remain a stable emulsion without development. Preservation has not been established.

Evaluation criteria:

Phase separation and viscosity during storage
Cleaning time on defined resin or ink deposits
Compatibility with metal, plastic and coated surfaces
Rinsability and remaining residue
pH, acid value and signs of ester hydrolysis

Safety note: Evaluate the emulsifier and the complete mixture's hazards. Capture contaminated wash liquid rather than releasing it to drains.

EXAMPLE 2: DIBASIC ESTER IN A POLYESTER BAKING-COATING SCREEN

Components:

Polyester resin solution, nominally 60% non-volatile: 45.00%
Compatible melamine resin solution, nominally 80% non-volatile: 10.00%
Titanium dioxide: 20.00%
Dibasic Ester: 10.00%
n-Butyl acetate: 13.00%
Compatible pigment dispersant: 1.00%
Flow additive: 0.50%
Defoamer: 0.30%
Compatible latent-acid catalyst solution: 0.20%
Total: 100.00%

The resin concentrations are stated assumptions for the supplied solutions. They contribute nominally 27% polyester and 8% melamine resin solids to the complete mixture, with their existing solvents also part of the solvent balance. DBE at 10% is an illustrative tail-solvent trial level, not a universal recommendation. Match the catalyst and curing schedule to the chosen binder pair.

Evaluation criteria:

Application viscosity and actual non-volatile content
Grind quality, flow and gloss
Popping, pinholes and residual solvent
Degree of cure and solvent resistance
Adhesion, flexibility and water resistance

Safety note: The co-solvents change the mixture's fire and exposure profile. Use appropriate solvent-handling and ventilated curing equipment. This trial establishes no can-coating or food-contact compliance.

SIMILAR PRODUCTS AND ALTERNATIVES TO DIBASIC ESTER

Compare solvent power, evaporation, water behavior and final-product requirements together.

DIBASIC ESTER AND SINGLE DIMETHYL ESTERS

An individual ester offers a more defined composition. Its freezing point and volatility may differ markedly from those of a mixed grade.

DIBASIC ESTER AND DIISOBUTYL ESTER BLENDS

Changing the alcohol part changes molecular weight and physical properties. These are related ester chemistries, not identical solvents.

DIBASIC ESTER AND GLYCOL ETHER ACETATES

Alternative ester solvents can change solvency and drying speed. Optimize the complete solvent package rather than assuming equivalent evaporation.

DIBASIC ESTER AND OTHER STRIPPING SOLVENTS

Benzyl alcohol, dimethyl sulfoxide and other solvents can be evaluated in selected removal systems. Performance and safety comparisons must concern the finished formulation, and no solvent is universally faster or safer in every use.

Verify any replacement through application trials and the relevant regulatory review.

QUALITY CONTROL AND PURCHASING CRITERIA FOR DIBASIC ESTER

Specify the intended use and ester profile before comparing price. A lower purchase price does not establish a lower cost at the effective cleaning or coating dose.

Information to review before purchasing:

Mixture identity and component ratio
Total ester content and analytical method
Water, methanol, acid value and color limits
Distillation profile and low-temperature behavior
Density and viscosity at defined temperatures
Technical data, current local SDS and batch COA
Applicable supply-chain and VOC documentation
Packaging compatibility, quantity and delivery terms

A COA reports batch results or conformity, a TDS gives technical characteristics and an SDS communicates hazards, handling and transport. Certification or inventory claims require the corresponding grade-specific documents.

Composition, purification, packaging, order volume and logistics affect quotations. For current supply specifications and commercial conditions, please contact Ataman Kimya.

STORAGE AND HANDLING OF DIBASIC ESTER

Store in tightly closed compatible packaging in a dry, ventilated location away from excessive heat and ignition sources. Avoid contamination with strong acids, bases and oxidizing agents. Evaluate pump seals and container materials for the actual mixture rather than assuming universal compatibility.

A published manufacturer's guide gives approximately two years for its product when kept closed and dry in original packaging, as guidance rather than a guarantee. Confirm the offered grade's shelf life and assess long-stored material for water, acid value, appearance and composition.

A reviewed reaction-mass SDS does not classify its material as dangerous goods under the listed transport systems. This is not a transport determination for a formulated remover containing other solvents. For the supplied grade's current UN assignment and transport conditions, please contact Ataman Kimya.

Contain spills with inert absorbent, collect in identified containers and keep the liquid away from drains and waterways. Assess recovered cleaning solvent before reuse because contamination can change its behavior and hazard profile.

SAFETY INFORMATION OF DIBASIC ESTER

A reviewed supplier SDS for the reaction mass reports no CLP hazard classification or associated H statements for that stated grade. This must not be generalized to every product sold under the generic name or every cleaner formulated with it. Confirm the local classification, impurities and supply-chain requirements for the actual delivery.

The reference flash point near 100 °C does not make the material incapable of burning. Heating, mist formation and lower-flash-point co-solvents require additional fire and exposure assessment. Fire response must follow the site plan with protection against combustion fumes.

Use suitable gloves, eye protection and ventilation. Rinse exposed eyes with water, wash contaminated skin and seek medical advice for persistent symptoms or significant exposure. Move a person affected by vapor or mist to fresh air and obtain appropriate assistance.

The main components are reported as readily biodegradable, but biodegradability does not authorize discharge or demonstrate that a used cleaner is harmless. Manage contaminated liquid, residues and packaging through the applicable waste procedures. Industrial solvent use does not establish cosmetic, food or pharmaceutical suitability.

SUPPLY OF DIBASIC ESTER FROM ATAMAN KIMYA

Ataman Kimya can be contacted to evaluate mixed dimethyl ester supply for the intended process. Confirm the offered ester ratio, identification documents, packaging and delivery conditions in the quotation.

Useful inquiry information includes:

Application and destination market
Required ester distribution and impurity limits
Current solvent or product being replaced
Performance and regulatory requirements
Quantity, packaging and delivery location

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DIBASIC ESTER

What is Dibasic Ester?
It is a mixed dimethyl ester solvent, usually based on succinate, glutarate and adipate esters.

What does DBE mean?
DBE abbreviates Dibasic Ester.

Which CAS identifier is commonly used?
CAS 95481-62-2 is used commercially for mixed dibasic methyl esters.

What does 906-170-0 identify?
It is the EC/List identity used for the reaction mass of the three named dimethyl esters.

Does DBE have one molecular formula?
No. The component formulas do not combine into a single mixture molecule.

Is 159 g/mol a fixed molecular weight?
No. It is an approximate average reported for a particular blend.

Is every grade a 20/60/20 blend?
No. Ratios and grade numbering vary and must be specified.

Does DBE dissolve completely in water?
No. Water miscibility is limited and composition-dependent. Aqueous formulations may require emulsification.

Can DBE absorb water?
Yes. Limited water uptake is possible and matters for moisture-sensitive processes.

Is DBE non-combustible?
No. A high flash point does not mean the liquid cannot burn.

Is every DBE grade VOC-exempt?
No. Exemptions depend on the grade, product category and applicable rule.

Can it replace another solvent at the same dose?
Only after testing solvency, drying, cure, compatibility and the complete hazard profile.

Can DBE hydrolyze?
Yes. Water and acid or alkaline conditions can promote ester hydrolysis.

Does biodegradability permit drain disposal?
No. Used solvent and contaminated wash liquid require controlled waste handling.

What limits matter for isocyanate-sensitive systems?
Water, reactive impurities and compatibility with the actual resin package are important.

Which documents should accompany purchase?
The current technical information, local SDS, batch COA and relevant composition and regulatory documents.

DIBASIC ESTER - TECHNICAL SUMMARY

DBE is a family of mixed dimethyl esters used as solvents and chemical intermediates. Succinate, glutarate and adipate proportions determine the properties of a particular product.

The commercial CAS identifier and reaction-mass inventory identity must be matched to supply documents. Neither establishes a fixed composition, a single molecular formula or a universal molecular weight.

Solvency and slow evaporation support selected coatings, inks and cleaning applications. Ester functionality also enables controlled chemical conversion into polymer intermediates.

Reference physical data describe a stated blend rather than every DBE grade. Water, methanol, acid value and component ratio are important acceptance parameters.

Fire precautions, local classification, VOC status and waste management depend on the actual product and use. Ataman Kimya can clarify the offered grade, current documents and delivery conditions.

Dibasic Ester can be sourced from ATAMAN KİMYA. For further information and supply inquiries about Dibasic Ester, please contact ATAMAN KİMYA.