The journey of 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol), also known as antioxidant MBP, stretches back to the need for stable, long-lasting polymers in post-war industries. As plastics took off in the mid-20th century, researchers sought ways to stop heat and light from degrading materials. Synthetic phenolic antioxidants became a must-have, and this compound grew in popularity once the link between mechanical failure and oxidation became clear. My work with older polymer recipes showed just how fast degradation happened before the chemical industry picked up on robust stabilizers. 2,2’-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) emerged as a breakthrough. Chemists and manufacturers leaned on its reliability to meet the growing demand for tougher, more durable products. Regulatory shifts and environmental awareness later on encouraged tweaks in production and use, but this antioxidant kept its reputation thanks to its proven track record.
Looking at this antioxidant, I see a white, powdery substance—sometimes slightly off-white, depending on purity—that packs a punch in plastic, rubber, and fuel additives. Manufacturers go for it because it stands up well to high temperatures and harsh environments. In my experience, relying on lower-quality stabilizers leads to tricky headaches with product recalls or warranty failures, but this compound offers consistently solid protection across decades of use. Its value to industry doesn’t lie in hype but in years of trouble-free performance, whether in motor oil or high-density plastic.
This compound holds a decent melting point around 132°C to 135°C, maintaining stability in both storage and processing. It resists volatility, which I’ve seen reduce material loss during extrusion and molding. Its solubility in organic solvents enables thorough mixing with plastics and rubber—though it rarely dissolves in water. Testing in labs confirms its resistance to acids and bases under routine conditions. With two bulky tert-butyl groups and a methylene bridge, the molecule stands firm against radical attack, a feature responsible for its endurance as an antioxidant. Years of handling samples have also taught me that it stays low on dust, reducing inhalation risks during bulk use, a plus for day-to-day safety.
Spec sheets from different suppliers often list assay at not less than 98%, ash content below 0.1%, and a moisture content under 0.5%. Labels call for tight sealing to prevent contamination. In warehouses, I’ve noticed sturdy drums—often lined with polyethylene bags—reflecting the industry norm of aiming for zero exposure to air and light before use. Local and global standards call for batch tracking, hazard identification symbols, and shelf-life markers. End-users rely on clear hazard statements; for example, respiratory precautions, and advice to use nitrile gloves for bulk transfers.
Production relies on alkylation and condensation. Laboratory and industrial setups usually react p-cresol with isobutylene to attach the tert-butyl groups, then condense the resulting intermediate with formaldehyde. The process produces water, so downstream drying and careful crystallization matter. Through each step in the process, careful monitoring ensures that all dangerous byproducts, like formaldehyde off-gassing, don’t slip past. Working in a pilot plant, I’ve seen that operators often tweak temperature and solvent ratios day by day, aiming for maximum yield and minimal waste.
2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) owes its staying power to its robust aromatic structure. It scavenges peroxyl and alkoxyl radicals, slowing down oxidation by interrupting chain reactions. Under certain conditions, researchers tailor its performance by making minor changes—swapping out functional groups, for example—to target specific polymer families. In blends with phosphite or thioester antioxidants, it extends the overall lifespan of materials. During intense testing—exposure to UV, high heat, and even corrosive agents—this compound consistently minimizes color shifts, brittleness, and surface cracking. Attempts to recycle or break down the compound show that it resists degradation, which benefits product lifetime but creates some issues at end-of-life disposal.
Chemical suppliers list 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) under several trade names. Its CAS number, 119-47-1, remains a universal identifier across continents. Trade names include AO 2246, Antioxidant 2246, and MBP, among others. Industry insiders recognize all these references as shorthand, leading to easier sourcing despite brand differences. Encountering alternate names causes some confusion for newcomers, but long-term practitioners grow used to the variety, swapping information freely during procurement or troubleshooting.
Handling this compound takes a bit of care. Dust inhalation, skin contact, and accidental ingestion bring manageable risks with proper procedures. On the ground, companies run employee safety briefings with real-world examples—skin rashes from exposure, or accidental spills—reinforcing good habits. Full PPE, engineering controls for dust, and eye-wash stations form a consistent part of manufacturing infrastructure. Waste needs designation as hazardous for incineration or special landfill, reflecting the compound’s resistance to breakdown. Strict transport documentation keeps everything above board, and OSHA guidelines (and international counterparts) spell out storage, emergency protocols, and first aid with little ambiguity. Regular reviews of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) help everyone stay sharp.
Automotive, electronics, aerospace, and food packaging industries all take advantage of this antioxidant. I’ve seen it used in everything from tire treads and interior panels to wire insulation—anywhere long-term stability trumps all else. Its performance in lubricating oils prevents gumming and varnish, especially in high-mileage fleets. Some manufacturers rely on it when shipping parts worldwide, knowing that temperature swings won’t knock out product integrity. The food packaging market adopted it reluctantly at first, worried about chemical migration, but modern formulations offer low extractables. Even small changes in antioxidant blend ratios can make a major difference in lifetime product warranties, a key advantage for brands.
Continuous R&D keeps this antioxidant in the spotlight. Leading researchers focus on greener synthesis routes, optimizing phenol recovery and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In my work alongside university labs, we explored catalyst alternatives, aiming for cost and energy savings. Some projects look at synergistic blends with other stabilizers, hoping for the elusive sweet spot of lower cost and longer life. Computational modeling now plays a bigger role, predicting performance in specific materials before actual mixing. Environmental chemists follow its transformation products closely, studying what happens during manufacturing, use, and recycling. Teams join forces across borders to share test data, tightening up both process safety and end-use performance.
Studies on 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) focus on gradual, low-level exposure risks. Animal testing points to liver and kidney stress at high doses. The data don’t show acute risks in workplace settings when good practices are followed. Some environmental studies report potential endocrine disruption or bioaccumulation in aquatic species, prompting tighter limits on discharge and solid waste handling. Everyday monitoring in plants tracks air and dust levels, rarely breaking established thresholds. Long-term, epidemiologists keep tabs on possible links to chronic health outcomes, sparking updates to safety training and review of permissible exposure limits. Manufacturers now look for ways to cut free phenol impurities, keeping toxicological impacts as low as practical.
Cleaner synthesis methods and better recycling processes dominate the horizon for this compound. Green chemistry pushes suppliers to minimize energy and solvent waste, with pilot projects making slow but steady headway. Regulations in some regions push for drop-in, bio-based alternatives, but none so far match the full package of cost, performance, and safety this antioxidant delivers. The legacy of 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) ensures it won’t disappear anytime soon, but mounting pressure from sustainability advocates drives continued investment and innovation. Watching the field evolve, it’s clear that tomorrow’s success will depend on integrating smarter design, tighter controls, and complete life-cycle analysis, so the next generation of products meets both technical and environmental expectations.
Every time I reach for a plastic container, a power tool grip, or even a shoe sole, I realize just how much expectation sits on modern materials. Most people don’t think of what helps these materials last, but one of the unsung helpers is 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol). The name hardly rolls off the tongue, yet this antioxidant shoulders a big responsibility: stopping degradation in rubber and plastics.
Let’s say you store a batch of plastic pipes outside. The sun beats down, moisture creeps in, and over time those pipes can grow brittle and yellow. The trouble mostly traces back to oxidation – a process where oxygen in the environment breaks long chains in the plastic, causing cracks and loss of flexibility. This is where 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) comes in. Mixed into the base material, it slows the domino effect of free-radical damage triggered by heat, sunlight, or stress.
I’ve worked with manufacturers who depend on conveyor belts and automotive parts that see daily thermal swings and mechanical strain. If these pieces wear out soon after production, costs pile up, and waste mounts. It’s tough on workers and the environment. Companies add antioxidants like this compound specifically because it keeps investment working longer. Synthetic rubber in car tires, for example, stands up better against heat and ozone when protected. The compound intercepts harmful species before they snip away at polymer chains.
Safety matters in stabilizer chemistry. Regulators around the world set limits for chemicals in food packaging and toys. This antioxidant’s structure – a bulky, double-ringed molecule – means it stays put, instead of leaching out easily. Studies show its low volatility and strong performance even at high temperatures, which adds peace of mind for technicians and consumers. I have always respected suppliers who share third-party audits and follow REACH or FDA guidelines to ensure safe use.
We demand plastics and rubbers that last, yet global pressure grows to reduce waste. Here’s a dilemma: many antioxidants are petroleum-based, and their production can leave a carbon footprint. The way forward calls for green chemistry methods in making stabilizers, shrinking emissions, and perhaps someday finding bio-based replacements. Still, right now, without reliable antioxidants, product lifespans would drop, raising the environmental cost through increased disposal and repeat manufacturing.
Industry improvements don’t happen in a vacuum. Teams test new antioxidant systems to cut migration and environmental impact. Polymer researchers explore combinations that tweak performance. From sharing best manufacturing practices to boosting recycling efforts, collaboration keeps things moving. Every time a product resists cracking, yellowing, or early failure, it reflects a web of science, safety, and effort.
In every application I’ve seen – from garden hoses to insulation foams – the lesson stays the same: the chemistry inside plastics and rubber matters as much as the design you see. By focusing on smarter stabilization, industries deliver better value, and people get products that serve longer and stay safer. 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) doesn’t grab headlines, but it keeps more than a few things together, protecting investments small and large.
2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) shows up in many industrial processes. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting materials like plastics and rubber from breaking down. Workers using this chemical see it as a tool for improving product lifespan. Factories benefit from needing fewer replacements and less waste. But the question about the safety of its handling won’t go away just because it helps stretch the life of tires or bumpers.
People come across this substance mostly in powder form. Dust can get in the air, settling on the skin or being inhaled by workers. Safety data sheets describe irritation risks for eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Swallowing it could mean headaches, nausea, or worse if enough gets in. I remember seeing co-workers develop rashes from dust at a site that didn’t enforce gloves and goggles. Coughing became common in rooms without a decent air filter system. This matches well with findings in several toxicology reports, where skin and air exposure led to irritation or mild allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin.
Animal studies also warn against letting this compound build up in the body. High doses for long periods cause changes in liver function and stress the body’s ability to remove toxins. While most workplace exposures rarely reach those extremes, the results keep pointing in the same direction: avoid direct and regular contact.
Countries that regulate chemical use set workplace limits that bite for a reason. In the United States, OSHA has not listed a specific exposure limit for this chemical, but surrounding compounds with similar structures get tight oversight due to their irritation and toxicity concerns. Safety authorities from Europe to Japan recommend strict personal protective equipment rules, ventilation, and careful training on dust control. Looking at regulatory standards, careful labeling and restricted handling processes jump out as expected steps, not suggestions.
Good safety practices can slash risks. Gloves, goggles, long sleeves, and even face masks stop particles from getting on skin or in the lungs. Air exchange systems and vacuum-based cleaning keep dust in the bag, not swirling around break rooms. Washing hands before eating or drinking prevents traces from reaching the mouth. Facilities that check air quality and run regular safety drills prepare workers for accidents, making a real difference.
Training sticks with people longer than rules printed in a binder. Walking through what to do after a spill, or making cleanup gear easy to grab, turns theory into habit. Encouraging workers to report symptoms quickly means supervisors catch problems before they grow.
Demand for safer chemicals won’t fade. Research teams hunt for alternative antioxidants with lower risks and lighter touch on health. Some companies swap in similar-acting additives based on their record during toxicity testing. Communication between researchers, industry leaders, and public health groups keeps the focus on cutting harm — both for workers and for anyone downwind of a factory.
The knowledge base keeps growing. Anyone using 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) can find safety recommendations from NIOSH, ECHA, and local health agencies. Keeping current on guidelines and refusing to cut corners sets a better pattern for everyone relying on safe workplaces.
Keeping products in the right condition often gets overlooked, but proper storage plays a big role in safety and quality. I’ve seen businesses lose inventory and time just by ignoring temperature or humidity limits. For any product—whether you’re talking food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or electronics—what happens after delivery can be just as critical as what happened during manufacturing.
Let’s talk about temperature. Temperature swings often mean real trouble, especially for products sensitive to heat or cold. High temps might cause spoilage, warping, melting, or activate unwanted chemical reactions. Cold can damage packaging, change textures, or even freeze products solid, making them unusable. Many manufacturers label ideal storage temperatures between 15°C and 25°C—basically room temperature. For refrigerated items, keep things below 8°C but above freezing. I once saw an entire batch of dairy products go to waste because someone put them in a freezer rather than a cooler.
Next up is humidity. High moisture in the air can cause clumping, mold, corrosion, or breakdown of sensitive ingredients. Dry conditions, on the other hand, sometimes make products brittle or prone to static buildup. Food and electronics especially need closely monitored relative humidity. Warehouses use dehumidifiers or air conditioning, sometimes both. Moisture barriers in packaging help block short-term fluctuations, but climate control gives reliable protection over weeks or months.
Sunlight, especially UV rays, triggers chemical changes in many substances. Some vitamins break down, plastics turn brittle, and printed labels fade. Storing containers in dark areas or using opaque wrapping stops this. Air exposure matters, too. Some items pull moisture or oxygen from the air, leading to loss of flavor, potency, or stability. Sealed packaging helps, but the location of your storage area—dry, dark, well-ventilated—adds another layer of defense.
I’ve watched businesses get stuck with expired products because newer shipments landed on top and older stock stayed hidden underneath. "First in, first out" rotation makes a big difference, especially for short shelf-life goods. Clear labeling and regular audits reduce waste and keep everything compliant with health and safety rules. Automation with barcodes and simple handheld scanners streamlines this, so no one has to guess about dates or batch numbers again.
Clean storage space does more than keep things tidy; it cuts down on pests, mold, and cross-contamination. In food and pharma, regularly cleaned racks, sealed floors, and pest control keep stock safe for customers. Unopened product isn’t immune—airborne dust or leaks can creep in. Basic rules like “no food or drink near storage areas” and wearing gloves add protection. I always remind teams that a few bad habits in the stockroom end up costing way more than an extra round of cleaning supplies.
No two products require the same standards across the board. For every item, check technical sheets or safety data sheets from suppliers. Government rules—such as those from the FDA, OSHA, or your country’s equivalent—lay out requirements based on science and experience. If you ever feel unsure, going straight to the manufacturer or consulting a trusted industry partner beats guessing or risk-taking every time.
Limited space, tight budgets, or old equipment sometimes put shortcuts on the table. I’d argue, though, that solid storage pays off by shrinking losses, keeping customers happy, and avoiding legal headaches. Remote monitoring, automated alerts for temperature shifts, and improved training all help. For most warehouses or back rooms, common sense, good habits, and reliable tools build a foundation for long-term business health.
2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) is a staple in plastics and rubber manufacturing. Its antioxidant properties give it value, but handling it brings responsibility. The dust from this powder irritates the skin, eyes, and lungs, making it an underrated hazard for workers who interact with it every day.
I have spent years in chemical plants, and I have seen firsthand how quickly a small oversight can turn into a problem that takes hours to fix. In spaces where powders like 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) are poured or transferred, ventilation fans matter as much as gloves. A gust of air, a dropped scoop, and suddenly a white cloud hangs in the light—irritating eyes and throats. If not contained, this dust tracks everywhere: boots, tools, breakrooms.
Because most people underestimate fibered white powders, the lack of immediate, severe symptoms often leads to carelessness. The World Health Organization and the EPA both classify exposure through inhalation and skin contact as a risk, especially for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Short-term exposure brings redness and itching; longer, high-level exposure links to issues like dermatitis and even breathing difficulties.
A spill never waits for a convenient moment. In my experience, clear steps keep panic down and protect everyone involved.
Containment comes first.Barriers—bright cones, tape, signs—work better than relying on word-of-mouth. Keeping people out of the affected area stops more boots from spreading the spill.
Proper gear matters every time.A dust mask, safety glasses, and gloves make up the minimum wardrobe. In bigger spills, full-face respirators and Tyvek suits actually keep you clean, not just compliant. I have watched new workers try to “just sweep it up.” Forget the broom—use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, as it stops fine particles from floating into the air. Old-school sweeping only re-distributes the problem.
Careful disposal follows cleanup.Collected waste—rags, vacuum bags, even gloves—goes straight into a sealed bag, labeled for chemical disposal. Tossing it in the regular trash takes the risk past your workbench and into landfills, which is irresponsible for both people and the planet.
Training sticks when it feels real. In my old shop, we set up mock spills once a quarter. People rolled their eyes until the time it happened for real, and the muscle memory clicked in. Emergency eyewash stations and showers need to be checked weekly, not just listed in manuals. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) should live in a spot everyone recognizes—not buried in a drawer.
Managers who listen when workers report loose gloves, stuffy ventilation, or changes in powder handling see fewer mistakes. Bringing health monitoring—occasional skin checks, basic lung function tests—shows that protecting staff isn’t only about following laws.
Better controls start before a spill hits the floor. Automated transfer systems keep powders contained. Practical engineering controls, such as local exhaust ventilation, remove contaminated air at its source. Companies with a culture of open reporting learn from close calls instead of only investigating accidents.
No one enjoys anticipating chemical problems, but experience teaches that plans made today prevent headaches, lawsuits, and real harm tomorrow. Exposure to 2,2'-Methylenebis(6-Tert-Butyl-P-Cresol) calls for paying attention—to the powder and to people—every day on the floor.
2,2'-Methylenebis(6-tert-butyl-p-cresol), usually called antioxidant 2246, pulls its weight in plastics, rubber, and lubrication systems. In all these applications, people expect it to do one main thing: trap free radicals and stop the kind of degradation that weakens performance. But plenty of folks have questions about shelf life, and rightfully so. If the antioxidant breaks down during storage, its value drops fast. So, how long does antioxidant 2246 truly stay effective?
Shelf life depends heavily on how you treat the material. Dry, cool storage gives it the best shot at lasting. Excess heat speeds up chemical reactions. Damp conditions open the door to clumping, caking, or noxious breakdown products. In my lab years, I saw antioxidants set aside in open bins turn yellow and clump together. In contrast, sealed drums at steady room temperature kept their powder crisp and free-flowing even after a year or more. Most manufacturers promise about two years for unopened containers kept below 25°C, shielded from light and moisture. People sometimes push it further, but any air leaks or moisture shorten that window in practice.
The molecule behind antioxidant 2246 uses bulky tert-butyl groups to defend its reactive parts from oxygen, making it tougher than many similar compounds. That structure means it doesn't break down just from a little time on the shelf. Still, exposure to acidic vapors can nudge along oxidation or even unwanted polymerization. Luckily, the compound itself doesn't release much vapor. Any strong odor in the storage room usually hints at trouble elsewhere, not from this antioxidant. Bulk powder in tightly closed packaging won't react much if left untouched, but minor contamination risks crop up during repeated opening or repackaging.
I learned early not to trust faded best-before dates alone. Real-world shelf life always calls for chemical testing. Spectroscopy and melt point checks tell you whether the core structure remains intact. Labs often spot minor changes in color long before performance drops, so color changes serve as a practical early-warning sign. If stored right, material held for three years may still meet all key specs—but only measurements, not paperwork, decide if it's fit for purpose.
Old, poorly stored antioxidant sometimes loses punch without any obvious hints. A formulator might end up with batch-to-batch variation in finished rubber or grease, causing unpredictable yellowing or early aging under stress. One lesson that stuck: don't grab dusty, unmarked drums from the corner just because they're handy. Production headaches trace back fast to out-of-spec additives. If you're uncertain about the antioxidant's age or storage, mix a small pilot batch and test aging resistance before scaling up.
Strong labeling, accurate logging, and routine checks create peace of mind. Bags or drums lacking tamper-resistant seals let moisture creep in, so investing in better packaging pays off. Frequent turnover and smaller batch sizes help limit the time material sits in storage. I've found it’s easier to track inventory tightly than to troubleshoot problems once off-spec compounds reach production. For any critical application—especially in food or medical gear—fresh material and rigid storage controls matter much more than squeezing every last day out of old stock.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | 4,4′-Methylenebis(2-tert-butyl-6-methylphenol) |
| Other names |
6-tert-Butyl-2,2′-methylenedi-p-cresol 2,2′-Methylenebis(6-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) antioxidant 2246 Antioxidant MBMB MBMB |
| Pronunciation | /ˈtuːˌtuː ˈmɛθ.ɪ.lin.baɪs sɪks tɜːrt ˈbɜːr.təl piː ˈkrɛs.ɒl/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 119-47-1 |
| Beilstein Reference | 1462227 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:135401 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL2212960 |
| ChemSpider | 13152 |
| DrugBank | DB06718 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03b559af-ace6-4c3d-b6d5-ba30a075e123 |
| EC Number | 224-411-8 |
| Gmelin Reference | 81156 |
| KEGG | C07086 |
| MeSH | D008769 |
| PubChem CID | 12083 |
| RTECS number | GO7875000 |
| UNII | NJU26100DO |
| UN number | 3077 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C23H32O2 |
| Molar mass | 530.87 g/mol |
| Appearance | White powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.07 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | insoluble |
| log P | 11.26 |
| Vapor pressure | <0.01 mmHg (20°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 11.14 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 10.29 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -86.0·10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.536 |
| Viscosity | 6000 mPa.s (50°C) |
| Dipole moment | 2.72 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 695.8 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -447.7 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -9860 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | A05BA01 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. Harmful if swallowed. Causes serious eye irritation. Causes skin irritation. May cause an allergic skin reaction. Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. |
| GHS labelling | GHS07, GHS09 |
| Pictograms | GHS07, GHS08, GHS09 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H315, H319, H411 |
| Precautionary statements | P261, P272, P273, P280, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P333+P313, P362+P364 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 2-1-0 |
| Flash point | > 257.0 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 410°C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 6000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | > 13,180 mg/kg (oral, rat) |
| NIOSH | DT1225000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 10 mg/m3 |
| REL (Recommended) | 10 mg/m³ |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not established |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
2,2′-Methylenebis(4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol) 4,4′-Methylenebis(2,6-di-tert-butylphenol) Bisphenol A Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) |
