Diisopropyl Ether (DIPE): Properties, Applications, and Safety

Diisopropyl Ether (DIPE) is an organic compound primarily used as a solvent in industrial and laboratory settings. Known for its volatility and low water miscibility, DIPE is valued for its ability to selectively extract certain components and dissolve nonpolar substances.

This article explores DIPE’s chemical properties, major uses, safety concerns, and market relevance.

What Is Diisopropyl Ether?

Chemical Formula: (CH₃)₂CHOCH(CH₃)₂
IUPAC Name: 2-isopropoxypropane
CAS Number: 108-20-3
Molar Mass: 102.18 g/mol

Diisopropyl Ether is a clear, colorless, highly flammable liquid with a strong, sweet odor. It is a symmetrical ether derived from isopropanol and is less dense than water.

Key Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value
Appearance	Clear, colorless liquid
Boiling Point	~68.5°C (155.3°F)
Melting Point	-60°C
Density	~0.725 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility in Water	Slightly soluble
Flash Point	-28°C (-18°F)
Autoignition Temp.	~415°C
Vapor Pressure	High (~50 mmHg at 20°C)

Major Applications of Diisopropyl Ether

1. Solvent in Extraction and Purification

DIPE is used as an extraction solvent for polar and nonpolar compounds, especially in:

Natural product isolation
Organic synthesis workups
Analytical chemistry procedures

2. Fuel Additive

In some regions, DIPE is used as a fuel oxygenate to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

In pharma labs, DIPE may be used in:

API purification
Recrystallization of intermediate compounds

4. Grignard Reaction Medium

DIPE is suitable for Grignard reactions, especially when a low-polarity solvent is needed to prevent unwanted side reactions.

Handling and Safety Considerations

WARNING: DIPE forms explosive peroxides over time. Proper storage and testing are critical.

Storage Guidelines:

Store in airtight containers away from light and oxygen.
Add a stabilizer (e.g., BHT) to inhibit peroxide formation.
Keep in a cool, well-ventilated area away from flames or sparks.

Hazards:

Flammable: High vapor pressure and low flash point.
Health Risk: Inhalation can cause dizziness, nausea, and central nervous system effects.
Peroxide Formation: May lead to explosion if peroxides are allowed to concentrate.

Detection of Peroxides:

Use potassium iodide test paper or commercial peroxide test strips.
Do not distill to dryness unless peroxide-free.

Environmental and Regulatory Information

VOC Status: Considered a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) under EPA guidelines.
Regulation: Subject to safety standards under OSHA, REACH, and other national chemical safety laws.
Disposal: Should be incinerated in a licensed facility; do not pour down the drain.

Market Outlook

DIPE demand is steady in:

Pharmaceuticals
Fine chemicals
Research labs

Though overshadowed by other ethers (like diethyl ether), DIPE’s selectivity and boiling point make it a preferred choice in specific extraction and separation tasks.

Conclusion

Diisopropyl Ether is a versatile ether solvent known for its excellent extraction capabilities and relatively low boiling point. While it offers significant advantages in synthesis and purification, its peroxide-forming nature and flammability require strict safety practices. For labs and facilities that handle DIPE, regular peroxide testing, proper storage, and worker training are essential.

Contact Us

Phone : +49 1512 4714765 ( Germany )
Phone : +1 (702) 381-3042 ( USA )
Email : [email protected]
Address : Cunostraße 56, 14193 Berlin. Germany
Address : 7373 Rowlett Park Dr, Tampa, FL 33610, United States.

Blog