Dicyclopentadiene, Cyclopentadiene Dimer, DCPD, 77-73-6

DICYCLOPENTADIENE (DCPD)

Dicyclopentadiene / 1,3-Cyclopentadiene dimer / Cyclopentadiene dimer / DCPD / Tricyclo[5.2.1.0²,⁶]deca-3,8-diene
CAS Number: 77-73-6
EC Number: 201-052-9

SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) is a cyclic diene hydrocarbon formed by the dimerization of cyclopentadiene. It exists as two stereoisomers (endo and exo) and is primarily produced as a by-product of the petroleum cracking process (C5 fraction). DCPD is a versatile chemical intermediate used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, hydrocarbon resins, epoxy resins, and various specialty chemicals.

SECTION 2: SYNONYMS AND OTHER NAMES

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

3.1. Molecular Structure

Dicyclopentadiene consists of two cyclopentadiene molecules joined by a Diels-Alder reaction. The molecule contains two double bonds and a bicyclic structure with significant ring strain.

Structural Formula:

        CH₂
       /    \
      CH     CH
     /  \   /  \
    CH    CH    CH
     \  /   \  /
      CH     CH
       \    /
        CH₂

Simplified Representation:
(C₅H₆)₂ (dimer of cyclopentadiene)

3.2. Molecular Formula

C₁₀H₁₂

3.3. Molecular Weight

132.20 g/mol

3.4. Key Structural Features

SECTION 4: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 5: SOLUBILITY PROFILE

SECTION 6: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

SECTION 7: REACTION EQUATIONS

7.1. Dimerization (Formation)

2 Cyclopentadiene → Dicyclopentadiene (Diels-Alder reaction)

7.2. Depolymerization (Cracking)

Dicyclopentadiene → 2 Cyclopentadiene (at >170°C)

7.3. Hydrogenation

DCPD + 2 H₂ → Tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene (THDCPD)

7.4. Polymerization

n DCPD → PolyDCPD (metathesis polymerization)

SECTION 8: PRODUCTION METHOD

Dicyclopentadiene is produced as a by-product of the steam cracking of naphtha and other petroleum fractions.

SECTION 9: ISOMERS OF DICYCLOPENTADIENE

SECTION 10: APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

10.1. Resin Production (Most Important Application)

10.2. Plastics and Rubber

10.3. Fuel Additives

10.4. Agricultural Chemicals

10.5. Paints and Coatings

10.6. Other Applications

SECTION 11: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

SECTION 12: GHS CLASSIFICATION

Signal Word: DANGER

Hazard Pictograms: GHS02 (Flame), GHS07 (Exclamation Mark), GHS08 (Health)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

SECTION 13: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

SECTION 14: FIRST AID MEASURES

SECTION 15: FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

SECTION 16: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

SECTION 17: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

SECTION 18: PACKAGING OPTIONS

SECTION 19: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

SECTION 20: REGULATORY INFORMATION

SECTION 21: ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

SECTION 22: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

SECTION 23: QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

SECTION 24: CRITICAL NOTICES AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL NOTICES:

1. Flammability: DCPD is a flammable liquid (flash point 32°C). Vapors are heavier than air and can form explosive mixtures. Keep away from all ignition sources.

2. Polymerization Risk: DCPD can polymerize spontaneously when heated or exposed to light, peroxides, or other initiators. Store with inhibitor and maintain cool temperature.

3. Depolymerization: At temperatures above 170°C, DCPD depolymerizes to cyclopentadiene, which is highly reactive and flammable. Monitor process temperatures carefully.

4. Aspiration Hazard: DCPD is an aspiration hazard (H304). If swallowed, do not induce vomiting as it can enter the lungs and cause chemical pneumonia.

5. Inhalation Hazard: Vapors may cause respiratory irritation and central nervous system depression. Use adequate ventilation.

6. Skin and Eye Irritation: DCPD causes skin and eye irritation. Use appropriate personal protective equipment.

7. Incompatibility: Incompatible with strong oxidizers, acids, bases, and polymerization initiators. Reaction with these materials may cause fire or explosion.

8. Storage: Store in cool, well-ventilated area. Maintain inhibitor levels. Do not store under nitrogen (inhibitor requires oxygen).

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep containers tightly closed. Maintain temperature below 25°C. Store with inhibitor (typically hydroquinone or BHT).

• Handling: Use explosion-proof equipment. Ground all containers. Use chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene), goggles, and face shield. Use adequate ventilation.

• Temperature Control: Maintain process temperatures below 170°C to prevent depolymerization. Use cooling systems if necessary.

• Inhibitor Management: Monitor inhibitor levels regularly. If inhibitor levels drop below specification, add additional inhibitor.

• Spill Management: Eliminate ignition sources. Absorb with inert material. Prevent entry into drains and watercourses.

• Waste Management: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations. Incineration is recommended.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. Dicyclopentadiene is a flammable and potentially hazardous substance and should be handled with extreme caution. This document does not substitute professional advice.