Tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl) isocyanurate

Tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl) isocyanurate is a chemical compound used as a polymer stabilizer in plastics. Like other hindered phenols it acts as a primary antioxidant. More than 1000 tonnes per year are used in the EU.

Synthesis

It is formed by the Mannich reaction of 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol, cyanuric acid, and formaldehyde.

Properties and applications

Tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl) isocyanurate is a high molecular weight additive, with low volatility. It is well suited to stabilising polyolefins against degradation caused by long term heat aging. It is an approved food contact material in the US.

See also

• 1,3,5-Tris(4-(tert-butyl)-3-hydroxy-2,6-dimethylbenzyl)-1,3,5-triazinane-2,4,6-trione - related phenolic antioxidant with a cyanurate core
• Pentaerythritol tetrakis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate) - a commonly used phenolic polymer stabiliser

References