SOYBEAN OIL EPOXIDIZED

CAS Number: 8013-07-8 (Soybean oil, epoxidized; Parent Unmodified Refined Soybean Oil CAS Number: 8001-22-7)
EC Number: 232-391-0 (EINECS 232-391-0; EU REACH Registered UVCB Substance: Soybean oil, epoxidized; Parent Soybean Oil EC Number: 232-274-4)
Molecular Formula: C57H98O12 to C57H106O10 (Representative epoxidized triacylglycerol structure containing an average of 4.0 to 4.6 three-membered oxirane rings per triglyceride molecule)
Molecular Weight: Approximately 950.0 to 1,000.0 g/mol weight-average molar mass (Typically 975.0 to 999.4 g/mol depending on native C18:1 / C18:2 / C18:3 fatty acid distribution and degree of oxirane conversion)
INCI Name: EPOXIDIZED SOYBEAN OIL
E Number: Not Applicable as a direct food additive (Authorized Food Contact Material plasticizer and thermal stabilizer under EU Regulation No 10/2011 FCM Substance No 532 / Reference No 88640 with SML = 60 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg for infant food jar gaskets, and US FDA 21 CFR 181.27, 175.105, 175.300, 177.1210, 177.1650, and 177.2600)
Melting Point: Pour Point -2.0 °C to -8.0 °C (28.4 °F to 17.6 °F); Cloud Point 0.0 °C to +8.0 °C (32.0 °F to 46.4 °F); solidifies reversibly into a white to pale yellow waxy paste below -5.0 °C to -10.0 °C (23.0 °F to 14.0 °F)
Boiling Point: > 280.0 °C to 340.0 °C (> 536.0 °F to 644.0 °F) with thermal decomposition at 101.3 kPa atmospheric pressure (Approximately > 150.0 °C at 0.5 kPa reduced pressure; Open-Cup Flash Point by ASTM D92 is >= 280.0 °C to 315.0 °C)
Viscosity: 320 to 600 mPa.s (cP) dynamic viscosity at 25 °C (Typically 350 to 480 mPa.s at 25 °C, 500 to 650 mPa.s at 20 °C, and 110 to 160 mPa.s at 50 °C; Kinematic Viscosity approximately 350 to 520 mm2/s or cSt at 25 °C)
Density: 0.985 to 0.998 g/cm3 (985 to 998 kg/m3, typically 0.990 to 0.995 g/cm3) at 20 °C to 25 °C (ISO 6883 / ASTM D1475; Specific Gravity 25/25 °C: 0.988 to 0.996)

Most Frequently Encountered Synonyms:
Soybean Oil Epoxidized
SOYBEAN OIL EPOXIDIZED
Epoxidized Soybean Oil
ESBO
ESO
Soybean Oil, Epoxidized
Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil
Soya Bean Oil, Epoxidized
Epoxidised Soybean Oil
Epoxidised Soya Bean Oil
Soybean Oil Epoxide
EU FCM Substance No 532 (Ref No 88640)
UNII-59A620186E
CAS 8013-07-8
EC 232-391-0

PRODUCT OVERVIEW, CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND OLEOCHEMICAL ARCHITECTURE

Soybean Oil Epoxidized—registered globally under CAS Number 8013-07-8 and European Community (EC / EINECS) Number 232-391-0, with FDA UNII Code 59A620186E, EU Food Contact Material Substance Number 532 (Reference No. 88640), and Cosmetic INCI designation EPOXIDIZED SOYBEAN OIL—is a chemically functionalized, 100 percent bio-based triacylglycerol ester produced by the controlled catalytic epoxidation of refined soybean oil (Glycine max). Recognized across international polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounding, food-packaging film, medical device extrusion, pigment dispersion, and specialty resin industries under its primary synonyms Epoxidized Soybean Oil, ESBO, ESO, Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil, Epoxy Soybean Oil, and in Turkish chemical commerce as Epoksitlenmiş Soya Yağı, Epoksi Soya Yağı, or Epokside Soya Fasulyesi Yağı, this pale-yellow to water-white viscous liquid is supplied by Ataman Kimya in high-oxirane industrial, food-contact, and medical grades.

From a chemical and regulatory classification standpoint, Soybean Oil Epoxidized belongs to the category of UVCB substances (Substances of Unknown or Variable composition, Complex reaction products, or Biological materials), yet its functional architecture is rigorously defined by quantitative wet-chemical specifications—above all its Oxirane Oxygen Content (Epoxy Value) and residual Iodine Value. Parent refined soybean oil (CAS 8001-22-7) is a natural glycerol triester composed of three C16 to C18 fatty acid acyl chains distributed across the sn-1, sn-2, and sn-3 positions of the glycerol backbone:

- Linoleic Acid (C18:2, cis,cis-9,12-octadecadienoic acid containing two internal carbon-carbon double bonds): 50.0 percent to 55.0 percent w/w.
- Oleic Acid (C18:1, cis-9-octadecenoic acid containing one internal double bond): 22.0 percent to 26.0 percent w/w.
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (C18:3, cis,cis,cis-9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid containing three internal double bonds): 7.0 percent to 10.0 percent w/w.
- Palmitic Acid (C16:0, saturated hexadecanoic acid): 10.0 percent to 12.0 percent w/w.
- Stearic Acid (C18:0, saturated octadecanoic acid): 3.5 percent to 5.0 percent w/w.

Because roughly 84 percent to 86 percent of the fatty acid chains in native soybean oil are unsaturated, each parent soybean triglyceride molecule (average molecular weight ~872 to 885 g/mol) contains an average of 4.4 to 4.6 olefinic carbon-carbon double bonds (-CH=CH-), corresponding to an initial Iodine Value of 125 to 138 g I2/100 g. During peracid epoxidation, electrophilic oxygen atoms are transferred across these internal cis-alkene double bonds to create strained, three-membered cyclic ether rings known as oxirane or epoxide groups (-CH(O)CH-).
Because each olefinic bond incorporates one oxygen atom (atomic mass 16.00 g/mol), converting 4.2 to 4.5 double bonds per triglyceride raises the average molecular weight to approximately 950 to 1,000 g/mol (typically 975 to 999.4 g/mol), represented by empirical formulas ranging from C57H98O12 (such as 1,2,3-propanetriyl tris[9,10,12,13-diepoxyoctadecanoate]) to C57H106O10. Consequently, the theoretical maximum oxirane oxygen content for a soybean oil feedstock with an initial Iodine Value of 130 to 134 g I2/100 g is approximately 7.05 percent to 7.20 percent w/w. Commercial high-purity Soybean Oil Epoxidized supplied by Ataman Kimya achieves an Oxirane Oxygen Content of 6.2 percent to 7.0 percent w/w (equivalent to an Epoxy Equivalent Weight, EEW, of 228 to 258 g/eq and an Epoxy Index of 3.87 to 4.38 mol/kg) while driving the residual Iodine Value down below 1.5 to 3.0 g I2/100 g.

Procurement specialists and polymer formulators must clearly distinguish Soybean Oil Epoxidized (CAS 8013-07-8) from two other commercial soybean-oil derivatives:
1. Distinction from Unmodified Refined Soybean Oil (CAS 8001-22-7): Unmodified soybean oil lacks polar oxirane rings, has a high Iodine Value (~130 g I2/100 g), is thermodynamically incompatible with PVC (exuding immediately as a greasy surface layer), and provides zero HCl-scavenging heat stabilization.
2. Distinction from Hydrogenated Soybean Oil / Soy Wax (CAS 8016-70-4): Soy Wax is a solid crystalline wax (melting point 42 °C to 70 °C) manufactured by saturating soybean oil double bonds with hydrogen gas (H2) for candle making and cosmetics; by contrast, Soybean Oil Epoxidized (CAS 8013-07-8) is a liquid oxirane-functionalized triglyceride (pour point -2 °C to -8 °C) engineered for PVC plasticization, thermal-UV stabilization, and reactive epoxy/acrylate/polyol resin synthesis.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND QUANTITATIVE SPECIFICATIONS

Industrial, food-contact, and medical grades of Soybean Oil Epoxidized supplied by Ataman Kimya are manufactured under strict ISO 9001 quality management protocols and verified against international ASTM, AOCS, ISO, and pharmacopeial test methods:

Quantitative Oxirane, Unsaturation, and Wet-Chemical Specifications:
- Oxirane Oxygen Content (Epoxy Value, Direct HBr Titration per ASTM D1652 / AOCS Cd 9-57 / ISO 3001): >= 6.0 percent w/w for standard industrial grade; >= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w for premium high-oxirane PVC, food-contact, and medical grades (typical commercial batch range: 6.4 percent to 6.8 percent w/w; theoretical maximum ~7.1 percent w/w).
- Epoxy Equivalent Weight (EEW, grams of ESBO containing 1 gram-equivalent of epoxide): Approximately 228 to 266 g/eq (typically 235 to 250 g/eq for >= 6.4 percent oxirane oxygen).
- Epoxy Index (mmol or mol of epoxide groups per kg): 3.75 to 4.38 mol/kg (or 375 to 438 mmol/100 g).
- Iodine Value (Residual Carbon-Carbon Unsaturation, Wijs Method per ISO 3961 / AOCS Cd 1d-92 / ASTM D1959): <= 3.0 g I2/100 g for standard grade; <= 1.5 to 2.0 g I2/100 g for premium low-unsaturation grade (confirming > 97 percent to 98.5 percent conversion of native olefinic bonds and preventing UV-induced oxidative cross-linking or plasticizer spewing in PVC).
- Acid Value (Free Fatty Acid Content, ISO 660 / ASTM D1980 / AOCS Cd 3d-63): <= 0.5 to 1.0 mg KOH/g (typical commercial batch value: 0.15 to 0.45 mg KOH/g).
- Saponification Value (ISO 3657 / AOCS Cd 3-25 / ASTM D1962): 175.0 to 190.0 mg KOH/g (typically 180.0 to 186.0 mg KOH/g).
- Hydroxyl Value (AOCS Cd 13-60 / ISO 4326): <= 15.0 to 25.0 mg KOH/g (typically 8.0 to 16.0 mg KOH/g; a low hydroxyl value proves minimal oxirane ring-opening hydrolysis into vicinal diols during manufacture).
- Peroxide Value (AOCS Cd 8b-90 / ISO 3960): <= 2.0 to 5.0 meq O2/kg (typically < 1.5 meq O2/kg, ensuring zero free-radical pro-degradant activity in polymers).

Physical, Optical, Rheological, and Volatility Constants:
- Visual Appearance and Odor at 25 °C: Clear, bright, transparent, pale yellow to water-white viscous oily liquid free from suspended particles, cloudiness, or water droplets, with a very mild, bland vegetable ester odor.
- Color on Pt-Co (APHA / Hazen) Scale (ASTM D1209 / ISO 6271): <= 80 to 150 APHA units for standard grades; <= 60 to 100 APHA units for ultra-clear cling-film and medical tubing grades.
- Color on Gardner Scale (ASTM D1544 / ISO 4630): <= 1.0 to 2.0 Gardner units.
- Density / Specific Gravity (ISO 6883 / ASTM D1475): 0.985 to 0.998 g/cm3 at 20 °C to 25 °C (typically 0.990 to 0.995 g/cm3 at 25 °C; Specific Gravity at 25/25 °C: 0.988 to 0.996; note that epoxidation increases density from ~0.918 g/cm3 in native soybean oil to ~0.992 g/cm3 in ESBO).
- Dynamic Viscosity (Brookfield Rotational Viscometer, ASTM D2196 / ISO 3219): 320 to 600 mPa.s (cP) at 25 °C (typically 350 to 480 mPa.s at 25 °C; 500 to 650 mPa.s at 20 °C; 180 to 240 mPa.s at 40 °C; and 110 to 160 mPa.s at 50 °C).

- Kinematic Viscosity (ASTM D445): Approximately 350 to 520 mm2/s (cSt) at 25 °C.
- Refractive Index (nD20 / nD25, ISO 6320 / ASTM D1218): 1.4710 to 1.4750 at 20 °C to 25 °C (typically 1.4720 to 1.4735 at 25 °C).
- Moisture / Water Content (Karl Fischer Titration, ISO 8534 / ASTM E203): <= 0.10 percent to 0.15 percent w/w (typically <= 0.05 percent to 0.08 percent w/w).
- Heating Loss / Volatile Matter (125 °C for 2 hours or 105 °C for 3 hours, ASTM D2288): <= 0.20 percent to 0.30 percent w/w (typical < 0.12 percent w/w).
- Thermal Stability Color Hold (Heat Resistance Test at 180 °C for 30 to 60 minutes): Color remains <= 150 to 200 APHA with no gelling or dark discoloration.

Thermal Phase Transitions, Flammability, and Solubility Profile:
- Pour Point (ASTM D97): -2.0 °C to -8.0 °C (28.4 °F to 17.6 °F).
- Cloud Point (ASTM D2500): 0.0 °C to +8.0 °C (32.0 °F to 46.4 °F); solidifies into a white-yellowish paste below -5.0 °C to -10.0 °C, which melts back into a clear homogeneous liquid upon gentle warming to 40 °C–50 °C.
- Boiling Point / Thermal Decomposition Onset: > 280.0 °C to 340.0 °C (> 536.0 °F to 644.0 °F) with decomposition at 101.3 kPa (> 150.0 °C at 0.5 kPa vacuum).
- Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup, ASTM D92 / ISO 2592): >= 280.0 °C to 315.0 °C (536.0 °F to 599.0 °F); Pensky-Martens Closed Cup (ASTM D93): > 210.0 °C.
- Fire Point (Cleveland Open Cup): >= 310.0 °C to 340.0 °C (590.0 °F to 644.0 °F).
- Auto-Ignition Temperature: Approximately 380.0 °C to 430.0 °C (716.0 °F to 806.0 °F).
- Vapor Pressure: < 0.0001 Pa (< 1.0 x 10^-6 hPa) at 20 °C to 25 °C.
- Solubility and Polymer Compatibility Profile: Practically insoluble in water (< 0.01 to 0.1 mg/L at 20 °C); sparingly soluble in cold methanol and ethanol; freely soluble in aromatic hydrocarbons (toluene, xylene), chlorinated hydrocarbons (methylene chloride, chloroform), ketones (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, cyclohexanone), esters (ethyl acetate, butyl acetate), and fully miscible with primary PVC plasticizers (DOTP, DINP, DIDP, DOA, TOTM, DINCH, ATBC); Partition Coefficient (Log Kow): > 6.2.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: PVC THERMAL-PHOTOCHEMICAL STABILIZATION AND OXIRANE RING-OPENING CHEMISTRY

In polyvinyl chloride (PVC) processing and long-term service, Soybean Oil Epoxidized performs two vital macromolecular functions simultaneously: it acts as a permanent, high-molecular-weight secondary plasticizer that lowers the glass transition temperature (Tg) and melt viscosity of PVC, and it operates as a reactive acid scavenger and labile-chlorine substitution co-stabilizer that arrests autocatalytic thermal and ultraviolet dehydrochlorination.

The Problem of Autocatalytic PVC Dehydrochlorination ("Zipper Degradation"):
When PVC resin is subjected to high thermal and mechanical shear energy (165 °C to 215 °C) during twin-screw extrusion, calendering, plastisol fusion, or injection molding—or when finished PVC articles are exposed to solar UV radiation during outdoor service—chain degradation initiates at structural defect sites along the PVC backbone, specifically internal allylic chlorine atoms (-CH=CH-CHCl-CH2-) and tertiary chlorine atoms at branch points. Homolytic or ionic cleavage of these weak C-Cl bonds eliminates free hydrogen chloride gas (HCl) and creates an adjacent allylic double bond, which activates the next chlorine atom along the chain. This triggers a rapid "zipper elimination" of HCl that generates long conjugated polyene sequences (-(CH=CH)n-, where n >= 5 to 12), shifting polymer color from clear/white to yellow, orange, red, brown, and finally black charred cross-linked resin. Crucially, the liberated free HCl acts as an aggressive Brønsted acid autocatalyst that accelerates further dehydrochlorination exponentially.

 Three-Stage Stabilization Mechanism of Epoxidized Soybean Oil (ESBO):
Soybean Oil Epoxidized interrupts this degradation cascade through three synergistic chemical mechanisms:
- Mechanism A — Irreversible Nucleophilic HCl Scavenging (Chlorohydrin Formation): The strained three-membered oxirane rings (-CH(O)CH-) along the fatty acid chains of ESBO possess high ring-strain energy (~114 kJ/mol). As soon as trace HCl is liberated within the PVC matrix, the oxygen atom of the oxirane ring is protonated and undergoes rapid nucleophilic ring-opening addition by the chloride ion (Cl-) to form a stable, covalently bound beta-chlorohydrin group (-CH(OH)-CHCl-) attached to the non-volatile ~975 g/mol triglyceride molecule. Because the chlorine atom is locked into a neutral aliphatic chlorohydrin structure, it can no longer autocatalyze PVC chain unzipping or corrode steel processing dies and molds.
- Mechanism B — Catalytic Labile Allylic Chlorine Substitution (Synergy with Ca/Zn and Ba/Zn Stabilizers): When ESBO is compounded alongside mixed-metal carboxylate heat stabilizers—such as Calcium-Zinc (Ca/Zn), Barium-Zinc (Ba/Zn), Magnesium-Zinc (Mg/Zn), or organotin stabilizers—the Lewis-acidic zinc or tin carboxylate coordinates with the oxirane oxygen of ESO and catalyzes a direct nucleophilic substitution or etherification reaction at labile allylic chlorine sites on the PVC backbone. This grafts or exchanges the epoxidized ester onto the PVC chain, terminating conjugated polyene sequence growth and preserving water-white initial color.
- Mechanism C — Suppression of Catastrophic "Zinc Burn" (ZnCl2 Complexation): In Ca/Zn and Ba/Zn stabilized PVC, active zinc stearate reacts with labile chlorines to form anhydrous zinc chloride (ZnCl2). Once ZnCl2 accumulates above a critical threshold, it acts as a violent Friedel-Crafts Lewis acid catalyst that triggers sudden, catastrophic blackening of the entire PVC batch ("zinc burn"). Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil forms stable coordination complexes with ZnCl2 and participates in regeneration reactions with calcium stearate, delaying zinc burn and increasing static and dynamic thermal stability times (measured by Congo Red ISO 182-1 or Metrastat oven aging at 190 °C–200 °C) by 200 percent to 400 percent compared to metal soaps used alone.

Mechanism of Secondary Plasticization and Extraction Resistance:
The polar glycerol ester core and mid-chain polar oxirane rings of ESO establish strong dipole-dipole solvation interactions with the polar C-Cl dipoles of PVC, while the C18 aliphatic segments create intermolecular free volume that lowers Tg and reduces melt torque. Because Soybean Oil Epoxidized has a molecular weight (~975 g/mol) roughly 2.5 times higher than monomeric dioctyl phthalate or terephthalate (DOP/DOTP, MW 390.56 g/mol), its diffusion coefficient through the PVC matrix is orders of magnitude lower—providing exceptional permanence against thermal volatilization in automotive interiors and cables, and superior resistance to extraction by soapy water, olive oil, and hydrocarbon fuels.

INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING PROCESS: SOYBEAN OIL REFINING, IN-SITU PERACID EPOXIDATION AND VACUUM DEHYDRATION

Commercial manufacturing of high-oxirane, low-iodine Soybean Oil Epoxidized (CAS 8013-07-8) is carried out via the in-situ Prilezhaev percarboxylic acid epoxidation process, followed by multi-stage neutralization, demineralized water washing, and high-vacuum thin-film dehydration:

Step 1 - Feedstock Selection and RBD Soybean Oil Preparation:
Production begins with premium Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized (RBD) soybean oil (CAS 8001-22-7) selected for a high initial Iodine Value (130 to 136 g I2/100 g), ultra-low free fatty acid content (Acid Value <= 0.15 mg KOH/g), low moisture (< 0.05 percent), and minimal phospholipids (< 2 ppm phosphorus) or transition metals (Fe, Cu < 0.5 ppm) that could otherwise decompose hydrogen peroxide non-selectively into oxygen gas.

Step 2 - In-Situ Peracid Generation and Biphasic Epoxidation Reaction:
The RBD soybean oil is charged into an acid-resistant 316L stainless-steel or glass-lined agitated reactor equipped with high-efficiency multi-impeller mixing and high-surface-area internal cooling coils, together with a catalytic amount of formic acid (HCOOH) or glacial acetic acid (CH3COOH, typically 0.25 to 0.50 moles per mole of olefinic double bond) as the active oxygen carrier. Depending on plant technology, either a homogeneous mineral acid catalyst (such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid at 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent w/w), anautocatalytic formic acid system, or a heterogeneous macroreticular sulfonic-acid cation-exchange resin (such as Amberlite IR-120) is employed.
Concentrated aqueous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 35 percent to 60 percent w/w strength, at a slight stoichiometric excess of 1.10 to 1.25 moles H2O2 per mole of C=C double bond) is metered slowly into the reactor over 2.0 to 4.0 hours under vigorous emulsifying agitation:
- Aqueous Phase Reaction: H2O2 + HCOOH (or CH3COOH) <--> HCOOOH (performic acid) or CH3COOOH (peracetic acid) + H2O.
- Organic Phase Prilezhaev Oxygen Transfer: The lipophilic performic or peracetic acid partitions into the oil phase and transfers its electrophilic peroxidic oxygen atom across the cis-carbon-carbon double bonds of the soybean triglyceride via a concerted cyclic "butterfly" transition state, forming the cis-oxirane ring (-CH(O)CH-) and regenerating formic or acetic acid, which returns to the aqueous phase to repeat the catalytic cycle.

Step 3 - Exothermic Temperature Control and Prevention of Ring-Opening Side Reactions:
Because alkene epoxidation is strongly exothermic (liberating approximately 210 to 230 kJ per mole of double bonds epoxidized), reactor temperature is tightly controlled between 50 °C and 68 °C during peroxide addition and held at 60 °C to 72 °C for a subsequent 4- to 7-hour completion dwell until in-process titration confirms an Oxirane Oxygen Content >= 6.4 percent to 6.8 percent w/w and a residual Iodine Value <= 1.5 to 2.5 g I2/100 g. If temperature spikes above 75 °C–80 °C or acid concentration is excessive, protonated oxirane rings undergo undesirable nucleophilic ring-opening side reactions with water (forming vicinal diols), with formic/acetic acid (forming hydroxy-esters), or with other diols (forming high-viscosity polyether dimers), which lowers epoxy value and increases viscosity above 600 mPa.s.

Step 4 - Phase Separation, Alkaline Neutralization, Vacuum Dehydration, and Polishing Filtration:
Once target conversion is achieved, agitation is stopped and the denser spent aqueous acidic phase is decanted or separated via disc-stack centrifugation. The crude organic ESBO layer is washed with warm dilute aqueous sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate solution to neutralize residual formic/acetic acid down to an Acid Value <= 0.3 mg KOH/g, followed by multi-stage counter-current washing with warm demineralized water until completely free of residual hydrogen peroxide and salts. Finally, the washed Epoxidized Soybean Oil passes through a continuous high-vacuum thin-film or wiped-film evaporator at 85 °C to 105 °C under 1.0 to 4.0 kPa absolute pressure to strip moisture below 0.05 percent w/w and trace odor volatiles, followed by 1-micron cartridge filtration to yield crystal-clear Soybean Oil Epoxidized.

COMPREHENSIVE APPLICATIONS AND FORMULATION ENGINEERING

Thanks to its high oxirane oxygen content (>= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w), high molecular weight (~975 g/mol), renewable bio-based origin, and global food-contact clearances, Soybean Oil Epoxidized supplied by Ataman Kimya is utilized across nine major industrial sectors:

 Flexible and Semi-Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Compounding:
In flexible and semi-rigid PVC articles plasticized with primary plasticizers (such as DOTP / DEHT, DINP, DIDP, DOA, DINCH, or TOTM at 30 to 80 phr), Epoxidized Soybean Oil is incorporated at 3.0 to 10.0 phr alongside 1.5 to 3.0 phr of Ca/Zn or Ba/Zn stabilizers:
- Wire and Cable Insulation & Jacketing (70 °C to 105 °C rated cables): ESBO (4.0 to 8.0 phr) scavenges HCl to maintain high volume resistivity and prevents plasticizer volatilization during continuous thermal aging.
- Calendered Flexible PVC Films, Artificial Leather, Wallcoverings, and Vinyl Flooring: ESBO (3.0 to 7.0 phr) prevents thermal yellowing on hot calender rolls (175 °C to 200 °C), improves outdoor UV weathering resistance in automotive dashboards, tarpaulins, and roofing membranes, and reduces soapy-water extraction.

 Rigid PVC (uPVC) Extrusion, Injection Molding, and Calendering:
In unplasticized rigid PVC compounds—including potable water pipes, sewer conduits, architectural window and door profiles, siding, and thermoformed blister sheets—Soybean Oil Epoxidized is dosed at 1.0 to 3.0 phr alongside Ca/Zn or methyltin/butyltin stabilizers. At 1.0 to 2.5 phr, ESO acts as an internal lubricant and HCl scavenger that reduces melt viscosity, lowers extruder torque and die-head pressure, eliminates plate-out, and improves weatherability without significantly depressing the Vicat softening temperature.

 Food-Contact PVC Stretch/Cling Films and Closure Gasket Liners:
- Transparent Food Cling Films (Meat, Poultry, Produce, and Cheese Overwraps): Formulated at 5.0 to 15.0 phr alongside polymeric adipates, DOA, or acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) and Ca/Zn stabilizers, food-contact grade ESBO imparts crystal transparency, low-temperature flexibility in refrigerated display cases, anti-fogging synergy, and compliance with EU Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 181.27.
- Glass Jar Metal Lug Cap Plastisol Gaskets ("Twist-Off" Closures) and Crown Cork Liners: In PVC plastisol sealing gaskets for jarred sauces, pickles, jams, and infant foods, ESBO acts as the essential non-phthalate co-plasticizer and retort-sterilization heat stabilizer (withstanding 85 °C pasteurization and 121 °C steam sterilization without gasket browning or HCl corrosion of the tinplate lid).

 Phthalate-Free Medical-Grade PVC Devices, Blood Bags, and IV Tubing:
In medical PVC formulations—including intravenous (IV) infusion sets, dialysis tubing, peristaltic pump tubes, enteral feeding catheters, endotracheal tubes, and blood storage bags plasticized with TOTM, DOTP (DEHT), DINCH, or citrates—medical-grade Soybean Oil Epoxidized (Oxirane Oxygen >= 6.5 percent w/w, APHA <= 80) is compounded at 3.0 to 8.0 phr. In addition to extrusion stability, ESBO provides indispensable protection against gamma-ray (25 to 50 kGy) and electron-beam sterilization degradation, absorbing radiolytic HCl and preventing yellow discoloration or pH drop in contact with blood and saline solutions.

 PVC Plastisols, Organosols, Rotational Molding, and Pigment Grinding Pastes:
In emulsion-grade PVC plastisols (for rotational molding of toys, dolls, and automotive slush skins, screen-printing textile plastisol inks, and coil coatings), ESO at 3.0 to 8.0 phr stabilizes paste viscosity during shelf storage, aids air release during deaeration, and prevents oven-curing scorch at 185 °C to 205 °C. Furthermore, because ESBO wets both polar inorganic oxides (TiO2, iron oxides) and organic pigments (phthalocyanines, azo pigments, carbon black) without evaporating, it is the preferred universal liquid grinding vehicle for PVC and PU pigment masterbatches and liquid stabilizer pastes.

 Synthesis of Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO) for UV/EB Coatings and 3D Printing:
Soybean Oil Epoxidized is the direct industrial feedstock for Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO, CAS 91722-14-4). By reacting the oxirane rings of ESBO with glacial acrylic acid at 85 °C to 110 °C in the presence of a ring-opening catalyst (such as triphenylphosphine, chromium(III) octoate, or triethylamine/AMC-2) and 200 to 1,000 ppm of a radical inhibitor (4-methoxyphenol / MEHQ or hydroquinone), manufacturers open the epoxide rings to yield a multi-functional bio-based beta-hydroxy-acrylate oligomer containing 2.5 to 4.2 acrylate double bonds per molecule. AESO is widely formulated into 100 percent solids UV- and electron-beam-curable wood and parquet coatings, overprint varnishes, lithographic/flexographic printing inks, nail gels, and stereolithography (SLA / DLP / LCD) 3D printing photopolymer resins.

 Bio-Based Soy Polyols for Polyurethane Foams, Coatings, Adhesives, and Elastomers (CASE):
Catalytic ring-opening of Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil with methanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, lactic acid, or water converts the oxirane rings into secondary hydroxyl groups (-OH), yielding renewable soy-based polyether-polyester polyols with tailored Hydroxyl Numbers from 50 to 260 mg KOH/g. Reacting these ESBO-derived polyols with polymeric MDI or TDI diisocyanates produces rigid polyurethane thermal insulation foams, flexible molded automotive seating foams, two-component polyurethane wood and concrete coatings, structural adhesives, and electrical potting elastomers with superior hydrolytic stability.

 Reactive Toughening Diluent for Epoxy Resins and Stabilizer for Chlorinated Coatings:
In bisphenol-A (DGEBA) and bisphenol-F epoxy resins cured with anhydrides (MTHPA, MHHPA), polyamides, or cycloaliphatic amines, blending 5 percent to 20 percent w/w of ESO into the epoxy resin cross-links the flexible C18 triglyceride chains into the thermoset network, increasing impact toughness, elongation at break, and thermal-shock crack resistance. In chlorinated rubber marine paints, chlorinated paraffin flame-retardant blends, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) barrier coatings, and nitrocellulose lacquers, 2 percent to 6 percent ESBO scavenges trace HCl/HNO2 to prevent in-can corrosion and outdoor film chalking.

 Practical Guide Formulation Frameworks Featuring Soybean Oil Epoxidized:
- Guide Formulation 1 (Phthalate-Free Flexible PVC Crystal-Clear Hose & Medical Tubing Compound): Suspension PVC Resin (K-Value 70) 100.0 phr, Dioctyl Terephthalate (DOTP / DEHT Primary Plasticizer) 45.0 phr, Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO, Oxirane >= 6.5 percent, APHA <= 80) 5.0 phr, Non-Toxic Calcium-Zinc (Ca/Zn) Liquid/Powder Heat Stabilizer 2.0 phr, and Stearic Acid / Oxidized PE External Lubricant 0.3 phr.
- Guide Formulation 2 (Rigid uPVC Weatherable Window Profile & Pipe Extrusion Compound): Suspension PVC Resin (K-Value 65–67) 100.0 phr, Acrylic Impact Modifier 6.0 phr, Acrylic Processing Aid 1.5 phr, Calcium-Zinc One-Pack Stabilizer 2.8 phr, Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO Co-Stabilizer) 1.5 phr, Titanium Dioxide (Rutile TiO2) 4.0 phr, and Coated Calcium Carbonate Filler 8.0 phr.
- Guide Formulation 3 (Universal High-Load TiO2 or Phthalocyanine Pigment Dispersion Paste for PVC): Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO Grinding Vehicle) 38.0 percent w/w, Dioctyl Terephthalate (DOTP) 10.0 percent w/w, Polymeric Hyperdispersant / Soy Lecithin Wetting Agent 2.0 percent w/w, and Rutile Titanium Dioxide (or Organic Pigment Powder) 50.0 percent w/w (milled on a three-roll mill or horizontal bead mill to Hegman fineness >= 7).

TECHNICAL COMPARISON OF SOYBEAN OIL EPOXIDIZED WITH ALTERNATIVE PLASTICIZERS AND EPOXY ESTERS

Comparing Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO, CAS 8013-07-8) against related epoxidized oils, epoxy fatty acid esters, and monomeric plasticizers highlights why ESBO dominates global PVC stabilization and bio-resin synthesis:

 Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO) vs. Epoxidized Linseed Oil (ELO, CAS 8016-11-3):
Epoxidized Linseed Oil (derived from flaxseed oil rich in C18:3 alpha-linolenic acid) exhibits a higher oxirane oxygen content (~8.5 percent to 9.5 percent w/w) and slightly higher density (~1.03 g/cm3) and viscosity (~700 to 1,000 mPa.s at 25 °C) than ESBO. While ELO is used in specialty high-temperature or ultra-high-acid scavenging niches, ESBO (Oxirane 6.2 percent to 7.0 percent w/w, viscosity 350 to 500 mPa.s) offers significantly lower viscosity for easier pumping and plastisol mixing, far broader global feedstock availability, and a 30 percent to 50 percent cost advantage—making ESBO the universal industry standard for 90 percent+ of flexible and rigid PVC applications.

 Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO) vs. Monomeric Epoxy Fatty Acid Esters (Epoxidized Methyl Soyate / Octyl Epoxystearate):
Monomeric epoxy esters—such as 2-ethylhexyl epoxystearate (octyl epoxystearate) or epoxidized fatty acid methyl esters (EFAME / epoxidized methyl soyate, MW ~310 to 410 g/mol)—have lower viscosity (~15 to 40 mPa.s) and lower pour points (-15 °C to -25 °C), making them useful as low-temperature viscosity depressants. However, because their molecular weight is less than half that of triglyceryl ESBO (~975 g/mol) and they contain only ~3.5 percent to 4.5 percent oxirane oxygen, monomeric epoxy esters suffer from high volatility (fuming during extrusion and fogging on car windshields), rapid migration, and inferior long-term heat stability compared to ESBO.

 Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO) vs. Primary Monomeric Plasticizers (DOTP, DINP, DOA, TOTM):
Primary plasticizers like DOTP, DINP, and DOA contain zero oxirane rings (Oxirane Oxygen = 0 percent) and therefore provide zero HCl scavenging or thermal co-stabilization in PVC. Conversely, while ESBO cannot replace 100 percent of the primary plasticizer at high loadings (> 15 to 20 phr) due to low-temperature crystallization limits, replacing 3 to 10 phr of primary plasticizer with ESBO simultaneously plasticizes the PVC and triples its thermal and UV stability.

PACKAGING, STORAGE AND HANDLING GUIDELINES

To preserve the high oxirane oxygen content (>= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w), low acid value, crystal clarity, and low moisture content of Soybean Oil Epoxidized (Epoxidized Soybean Oil, ESBO, ESO, CAS 8013-07-8), warehouse managers and plant operators should observe the following packaging, storage, and thawing guidelines established by Ataman Kimya:

Commercial Packaging Configurations Supplied by Ataman Kimya:
- 200 kg and 220 kg Net Tight-Head Drums: Heavy-duty baked internal epoxy-phenolic lined steel drums or high-molecular-weight high-density polyethylene (HDPE) drums with 2-inch and 3/4-inch bungs, palletized 4 drums per pallet (800 kg or 880 kg net per shrink-wrapped ISPM-15 pallet).
- 1,000 kg Net Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC Totes): High-density polyethylene composite IBCs enclosed in galvanized tubular steel cages on 4-way entry pallets, fitted with bottom DN50 butterfly discharge valves and compatible with electric IBC heating jackets.
- 20,000 kg to 24,000 kg Net Bulk Liquid Transport: Insulated stainless-steel ISO tank containers (equipped with steam heating coils) and food/industrial-grade flexitanks with bottom heating pads for high-volume PVC compounders, cling-film extruders, and stabilizer manufacturers.
Storage Conditions, Winter Solidification Behavior, and Safe Thawing Protocol:

 Recommended Warehouse Temperature (+15 °C to +35 °C / 59 °F to 95 °F): Store Soybean Oil Epoxidized in tightly closed original drums, IBCs, or blanketed stainless-steel/carbon-steel storage tanks in a dry, well-ventilated indoor area away from direct sunlight, rain/moisture ingress, and localized high-heat sources.

 Reversible Winter Crystallization and Gentle Thawing Procedure (40 °C to 60 °C): Because high-purity Epoxidized Soybean Oil has a cloud point between 0 °C and +8 °C and a pour point between -2 °C and -8 °C, exposure to cold winter weather (< +10 °C to -10 °C) during transit or unheated warehousing causes ESBO to increase in viscosity, become cloudy, and eventually solidify into a white to pale yellow waxy paste. Operators must note that this cold solidification is a purely physical, 100 percent reversible phase transition that does NOT degrade the oxirane oxygen content or chemical structure of ESO! To restore frozen or cloudy ESBO to a crystal-clear liquid, warm the sealed drum or IBC in a thermostatically controlled hot room, hot-air box, or warm water bath at 40 °C to 60 °C (104 °F to 140 °F) for 12 to 24 hours, and roll or gently agitate the container before pumping to ensure complete thermal and compositional homogeneity.

 Avoidance of Localized Overheating (> 75 °C–80 °C) and Chemical Incompatibilities: Never apply direct open flames, torches, or unthermostated high-watt-density clamp-on band heaters (> 80 °C to 100 °C wall temperature) to thaw ESBO drums, as intense localized heat causes thermal oxirane ring cleavage, polymerization, and dark amber discoloration. Keep Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil strictly segregated from strong mineral acids (HCl, H2SO4, HNO3), strong alkalis (NaOH, KOH), strong oxidizers, anhydrous Lewis acids (FeCl3, AlCl3, SnCl4, BF3), and primary/secondary amines, which can trigger rapid exothermic oxirane ring-opening polymerization in bulk containers. When stored unopened under recommended conditions (+15 °C to +35 °C), Soybean Oil Epoxidized has a certified shelf life of 12 to 24 months from the date of manufacture.

FIRST AID MEASURES, TOXICOLOGY AND SAFETY INFORMATION

Soybean Oil Epoxidized (Epoxidized Soybean Oil, ESBO, ESO, CAS 8013-07-8, EC 232-391-0) is a non-volatile, bio-based, high-molecular-weight triglyceride ester that is NOT classified as a hazardous substance or mixture under European Union Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP) or the UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). It carries no GHS hazard pictograms, no signal word, and no hazard statements.

Quantitative Toxicological and Ecotoxicological Profile:
- Acute Oral Toxicity (OECD Test Guideline 401): LD50 (Rat, oral) > 5,000 mg/kg body weight (literature values range from 21,000 to 40,000 mg/kg bw, demonstrating practically non-toxic acute oral safety).
- Acute Dermal Toxicity (OECD Test Guideline 402): LD50 (Rabbit, dermal) > 20,000 mg/kg body weight.
- Skin Corrosion / Irritation (OECD Test Guideline 404): Non-irritating to intact rabbit and human skin.
- Serious Eye Damage / Eye Irritation (OECD Test Guideline 405): Non-irritating or transient mild mechanical conjunctival redness; does not cause corneal damage.
- Skin Sensitization (OECD Test Guideline 406): Non-sensitizing in guinea pig maximization (Magnusson-Kligman) and Buehler tests.
- Subchronic Toxicity, Genotoxicity, and Carcinogenicity: Negative in bacterial reverse mutation (Ames OECD 471) and mammalian cell clastogenicity assays; not listed as a carcinogen, mutagen, or reproductive toxicant (CMR) by IARC, NTP, OSHA, or EU REACH; European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) is established at 1.0 mg/kg body weight/day.

First Aid Measures for Industrial Exposure:
- Inhalation: Because Soybean Oil Epoxidized has a negligible vapor pressure (< 0.0001 Pa at 20 °C), it poses no inhalation hazard at room temperature. If workers inhale hot oil mists or thermal decomposition fumes generated during high-temperature PVC extrusion or overheating (> 180 °C to 250 °C), move the exposed individual immediately into fresh air, keep them warm and at rest, and seek medical attention if throat or respiratory irritation persists.
- Skin Contact: Remove oil-soaked clothing and shoes. Wash contacted skin thoroughly with warm water and mild soap. If accidental contact occurs with hot ESBO (> 60 °C to 180 °C) during processing, flush the skin immediately with cool running water for 15 minutes to dissipate heat and seek medical evaluation for thermal burns.
- Eye Contact: Immediately flush the eyes with plenty of lukewarm low-pressure running water or sterile eyewash saline for at least 15 minutes while holding the eyelids wide open. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Consult an ophthalmologist if redness or discomfort persists.
- Ingestion: Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Seek medical advice if a substantial quantity of Epoxidized Soybean Oil is swallowed.

Fire-Fighting Measures and Spill Response Procedures:
- Suitable Extinguishing Media: Soybean Oil Epoxidized has a very high Open-Cup Flash Point (>= 280 °C to 315 °C) and will not ignite at ambient temperatures. For fires involving overheated ESBO, extinguish using dry chemical powder (ABC/BC), carbon dioxide (CO2), alcohol-resistant foam, or fine water fog/mist. NEVER direct a solid high-pressure water jet onto burning hot ESBO, as water sinks beneath the hot oil and flashes into steam violently, spattering burning oil!
- Combustion Hazard & Firefighter PPE: Thermal decomposition during a fire generates carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), acrolein traces, and irritating organic acid/aldehyde smoke. Firefighters must wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA, EN 137) and full protective turnout clothing.
- Accidental Spill Cleanup: Spilled ESBO creates an extreme slipping hazard on factory floors. Dike and absorb the spill immediately using inert absorbent materials such as dry sand, diatomaceous earth, vermiculite, or polypropylene oil-absorbent pads. Shovel the absorbed material into labeled waste drums for disposal in accordance with local regulations, and scrub the floor thoroughly with hot water and an alkaline industrial degreaser/detergent until all oily film is removed.

REGULATORY STATUS, COMPLIANCE AND INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS

Soybean Oil Epoxidized (CAS 8013-07-8, EC 232-391-0) holds one of the most comprehensive global regulatory portfolios of any polymer additive, enabling unrestricted deployment in food-contact packaging, medical devices, toys, and consumer goods:

 European Union Plastics Food Contact Regulation (EU) No 10/2011:
Explicitly authorized on the Union List of Authorized Monomers and Additives under FCM Substance No. 532 (Reference No. 88640, CAS 8013-07-8, "soybean oil, epoxidized") for use as an additive/plasticizer in food-contact plastics. Under Regulation (EU) No 10/2011, ESBO (defined as having an oxirane oxygen content < 8 percent and an iodine number < 6 g I2/100 g, with an average molecular weight around 1,000 Da) carries a Specific Migration Limit (SML) of 60 mg/kg of food. For PVC gaskets used to seal glass jars containing infant formulae and follow-on formulae or processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children, a lowered Specific Migration Limit (SML) of 30 mg/kg of food applies.

 United States FDA Food-Contact Clearances (Title 21 CFR):
- 21 CFR 181.27 (Prior-Sanctioned Food Ingredients — Plasticizers): Explicitly authorizes Epoxidized Soybean Oil (having a minimum oxirane oxygen content of 6.0 percent and a maximum iodine number of 6.0) for use in food-packaging materials.
- 21 CFR 175.105 (Adhesives for food packaging), 21 CFR 175.300 (Resinous and polymeric coatings for metal food cans and closures), 21 CFR 177.1210 (Closures with sealing gaskets for food containers), 21 CFR 177.1650 (Polysulfide polymer-polyepoxy resins), and 21 CFR 177.2600 (Rubber articles intended for repeated food contact).

 Pharmacopeial Monographs (Ph. Eur. / USP) and Medical Device Compliance:
High-purity medical grades of ESBO satisfy the exact compositional and purity requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur. Chapters 3.1.1.1 and 3.1.1.2: Materials based on plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) for containers for human blood and blood components, and for tubing used in sets for the transfusion of blood and aqueous infusion solutions, requiring Oxirane Oxygen 6.0 percent to 8.0 percent and Iodine Value <= 6.0) as well as USP Class VI biocompatibility standards.

 Global Chemical Inventories, REACH Registration, RoHS, and Environmental Fate:
- Listed on all major global chemical inventories: US TSCA (Active, CAS 8013-07-8), EU EINECS (232-391-0, full REACH Registration completed), Canada DSL, Australia AIIC, China IECSC, Japan ENCS/ISHL (8-348), South Korea KECI (KE-13999), Philippines PICCS, New Zealand NZIoC, and Taiwan TCSI.
- Phthalate-Free, SVHC-Free, and RoHS Compliant: 100 percent free of ortho-phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP, DINP, DIDP), bisphenol-A (BPA), heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr6+), and EU REACH Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC); fully compliant with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU (and 2015/863) and European Toy Safety Standard EN 71-3.
- Biodegradability and Transport Classification: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions per OECD Test Guideline 301B (CO2 Evolution Test: 79 percent to 92 percent biodegradation in 28 days) with 100 percent bio-based carbon content (ASTM D6866). Not Regulated as Dangerous Goods under ADR/RID (Road/Rail), IMDG (Sea), or IATA/ICAO (Air) transport codes (UN Number: Not Regulated; Marine Pollutant: No).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

 What is Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO) and what dual function does it perform in PVC formulations?
Soybean Oil Epoxidized (CAS 8013-07-8, EC 232-391-0), universally known as Epoxidized Soybean Oil, ESBO, or ESO, is a 100 percent bio-based epoxidized triglyceride manufactured by oxidizing the carbon-carbon double bonds of refined soybean oil into three-membered oxirane (epoxide) rings using hydrogen peroxide and formic or acetic acid. In polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds, ESBO performs a synergistic dual role: it acts as a permanent, high-molecular-weight (~975 g/mol) secondary plasticizer and simultaneously functions as a primary hydrochloric acid (HCl) scavenger and labile-chlorine substitution co-stabilizer that protects PVC against thermal and UV degradation.

 Why are High Oxirane Oxygen Content (>= 6.2% to 6.8%) and Low Iodine Value (<= 2.0 to 3.0 g I2/100 g) critical quality indicators for ESBO?
The Oxirane Oxygen Content (measured by ASTM D1652 / AOCS Cd 9-57) directly quantifies the concentration of reactive epoxide rings per gram of oil—higher oxirane values (>= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w) provide superior HCl neutralization capacity, stronger polar compatibility with PVC chains, and longer thermal stability times. Conversely, the Iodine Value (ISO 3961 / AOCS Cd 1d-92) measures unreacted carbon-carbon double bonds left over from parent soybean oil; a low Iodine Value (<= 1.5 to 3.0 g I2/100 g) ensures that residual double bonds will not undergo UV- or heat-induced oxidative cross-linking, which would otherwise cause yellowing and plasticizer exudation ("spewing") on the PVC surface.

 Can Soybean Oil Epoxidized be used as a standalone heat stabilizer in PVC without metal stabilizers?
No, Epoxidized Soybean Oil is a non-metallic organic co-stabilizer rather than a primary replacement for metal soap or organotin stabilizers. ESBO achieves its full stabilizing power when compounded alongside Calcium-Zinc (Ca/Zn), Barium-Zinc (Ba/Zn), or organotin stabilizers, where the metal carboxylate catalyzes the substitution of labile allylic chlorines on the PVC chain by ESBO's oxirane rings, while ESBO neutralizes liberated HCl and complexes with Lewis-acidic zinc chloride (ZnCl2) to prevent sudden blackening ("zinc burn") and multiply overall thermal stability by 200 percent to 400 percent.

 What are the recommended phr dosage levels of ESBO in flexible PVC versus rigid uPVC applications?
In flexible and semi-rigid PVC formulations (such as wire and cable jacketing, hoses, calendered films, artificial leather, flooring, and plastisols) containing 30 to 80 phr of a primary plasticizer (DOTP, DINP, DOA, or TOTM), Soybean Oil Epoxidized is typically dosed at 3.0 to 10.0 phr (parts per hundred parts of PVC resin), or up to 12.0–15.0 phr in food-contact cling films. In unplasticized rigid PVC (uPVC) pipes, window profiles, and calendered sheets, ESBO is incorporated at 1.0 to 3.0 phr to scavenge HCl and provide internal melt lubrication without lowering the Vicat softening temperature.

 Is Epoxidized Soybean Oil approved for food-contact PVC cling films, jar gaskets, and phthalate-free medical tubing?
Yes, food-contact and medical grades of ESBO are 100 percent phthalate-free, BPA-free, and globally authorized under EU Plastics Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 (FCM Substance No. 532 / Reference No. 88640, with a Specific Migration Limit of 60 mg/kg for general food contact and 30 mg/kg for infant food jar PVC gaskets) and US FDA 21 CFR 181.27, 175.300, and 177.1210. In medical PVC blood bags, IV infusion tubing, and dialysis sets, ESBO complies with European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur. 3.1.1.1 / 3.1.1.2) standards and provides critical stabilization against gamma-ray and electron-beam sterilization discoloration.

 What happens if Soybean Oil Epoxidized turns cloudy or solidifies during cold winter transport, and how should it be thawed?
Because ESBO has a cloud point between 0 °C and +8 °C and a pour point between -2 °C and -8 °C, exposure to cold winter temperatures causes the oil to become cloudy and solidify into a white to pale yellow paste below -5 °C. This solidification is a purely physical, reversible crystallization that does not reduce the oxirane oxygen content or degrade the product in any way. Simply warm the closed drum or IBC in a hot-air room, warm water bath, or thermostated IBC heating jacket at 40 °C to 60 °C (never exceeding 75 °C–80 °C) and mix gently until completely clear and homogeneous before use.

 How does Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO) compare to Epoxidized Linseed Oil (ELO) and monomeric epoxy fatty acid esters?
Epoxidized Linseed Oil (ELO, CAS 8016-11-3) has a higher oxirane oxygen content (~8.5 percent to 9.5 percent w/w) but exhibits much higher viscosity (~700 to 1,000 mPa.s) and higher cost, whereas ESBO (Oxirane 6.2 percent to 7.0 percent w/w, viscosity 350 to 500 mPa.s at 25 °C) offers optimal flowability and cost-efficiency for general, food-contact, and medical PVC. Compared to monomeric epoxy esters (such as epoxidized methyl soyate or octyl epoxystearate, MW ~310–410 g/mol), ESBO's high triglyceride molecular weight (~975 g/mol) provides far lower volatility, zero mold fuming, and superior extraction resistance against oils, fuels, and soapy water.

 How is Soybean Oil Epoxidized used as a chemical building block for Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO) and polyurethane soy polyols?
In green polymer synthesis, the strained oxirane rings of ESBO undergo catalytic nucleophilic ring-opening reactions with a wide variety of functional reagents. Reacting ESBO with acrylic acid yields Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO), a major renewable oligomer for UV- and electron-beam-curable wood coatings, printing inks, and 3D printing photopolymers. Similarly, ring-opening ESBO with alcohols (methanol, ethylene glycol, glycerol) or water produces bio-based soy polyols (Hydroxyl Value 50 to 250 mg KOH/g) that react with MDI or TDI diisocyanates to manufacture rigid and flexible polyurethane foams, adhesives, coatings, and elastomers.

 What causes ESBO exudation ("spewing" or surface tackiness) in flexible PVC and how can formulators prevent it?
Plasticizer exudation of ESBO in flexible PVC occurs under three conditions: (a) overdosing ESBO above its compatibility limit (> 12 to 15 phr in standard flexible PVC), (b) using an inferior grade of ESBO with a high residual Iodine Value (> 4.0 to 6.0 g I2/100 g) that undergoes UV photo-oxidation in outdoor sunlight, or (c) exposing the PVC compound to concentrated mineral acids that cleave the oxirane rings into incompatible diols. Formulating with Ataman Kimya's high-oxirane (>= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w), ultra-low-iodine (<= 1.5 to 3.0 g I2/100 g) Soybean Oil Epoxidized within the recommended 3.0 to 8.0 phr window guarantees permanent compatibility and zero surface spewing.

 How can PVC compounders, coating manufacturers, and industrial buyers source Soybean Oil Epoxidized and request COA, TDS, and SDS documents from Ataman Kimya?
Industrial customers can procure Soybean Oil Epoxidized (ESBO, CAS 8013-07-8, EC 232-391-0) across Industrial, Food-Contact (EU 10/2011 & FDA 21 CFR), and Medical (Ph. Eur.) grades in 200–220 kg lined steel or HDPE drums, 1,000 kg IBC totes, and 20–24 MT heated bulk ISO tank containers—complete with batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (COA), Technical Data Sheets (TDS), and GHS/CLP Safety Data Sheets (SDS)—directly from Ataman Kimya by calling +90 216 577 10 10 or emailing info@atamankimya.com.

TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Soybean Oil Epoxidized—universally recognized across international polymer, coating, and chemical standards as Epoxidized Soybean Oil, ESBO, ESO, Epoxidized Soya Bean Oil, INCI EPOXIDIZED SOYBEAN OIL, and Epoksitlenmiş Soya Yağı (CAS Number 8013-07-8, EC / EINECS Number 232-391-0, EU FCM Substance No. 532)—stands as the global benchmark 100 percent bio-based secondary plasticizer, hydrochloric acid scavenger, and synergistic thermal/UV co-stabilizer for polyvinyl chloride compounding and renewable resin synthesis. Engineered via controlled peracid epoxidation and high-vacuum thin-film dehydration to deliver a high Oxirane Oxygen Content (>= 6.2 percent to 6.8 percent w/w, EEW ~235 to 255 g/eq), ultra-low residual Iodine Value (<= 1.5 to 3.0 g I2/100 g), low Acid Value (<= 0.5 mg KOH/g), pale-yellow to water-white clarity (APHA <= 60 to 150), high molecular weight (~975 g/mol), and high open-cup flash point (>= 280 °C to 315 °C), ESBO multiplies the heat and weathering stability of Ca/Zn, Ba/Zn, and organotin stabilized flexible and rigid PVC while serving as the premier renewable feedstock for UV-curable Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO) and polyurethane soy polyols.

Ataman Kimya supplies premium, high-oxirane Soybean Oil Epoxidized across Industrial PVC Grades, Food-Contact Grades (compliant with EU Regulation 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 181.27 / 177.1210), Medical Grades (Ph. Eur. 3.1.1.1 / 3.1.1.2), and Reactive Coating/Polyol Grades in 200 kg to 220 kg steel or HDPE drums, 1,000 kg IBC totes, and heated bulk ISO tank containers, backed by ready warehouse stock in Turkey, strict batch-to-batch analytical verification, and fast domestic and international logistics. To request a commercial quotation, bulk isotank or pallet pricing, laboratory evaluation samples, Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), or a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) for Soybean Oil Epoxidized (Epoxidized Soybean Oil / ESBO, CAS 8013-07-8), please contact the technical sales team at Ataman Kimya using the contact details below.

Ataman Chemicals
Phone: +90 216 577 10 10
Email: info@atamankimya.com