dimetylftalaatti

Dimethyl phthalate, often abbreviated as DMP, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C10H10O4. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a faint odor. DMP is a diester of phthalic acid and methanol.

It is primarily used as a plasticizer, which is a substance added to plastics to increase their flexibility, workability, and stretchability. DMP is particularly effective in softening cellulose esters like cellulose acetate. In addition to its plasticizing properties, it also finds application as a solvent for certain resins and as a component in some insect repellents. Historically, it was more widely used in consumer products, but concerns about potential health and environmental effects have led to some restrictions and a shift towards alternative plasticizers in certain applications.

DMP is synthesized through the esterification of phthalic anhydride with methanol. It is considered to have low acute toxicity. However, like other phthalates, its potential for endocrine disruption has been a subject of scientific research and regulatory scrutiny. Environmental persistence and bioaccumulation are generally considered low for DMP.