Dicumyl Peroxide (DCP, 98%) for SMC/BMC

CAS 80-43-3In StockSample available

Key Features

  • High T½ (~116°C) provides excellent scorch resistance in SMC formulations
  • Slow, controlled exotherm benefits thick-walled complex parts
  • Also effective for PE crosslinking and rubber vulcanization
  • Long shelf life (24 months) compared to most other peroxides
  • Low active oxygen content reduces handling hazard vs. high-activity peroxides

Dicumyl Peroxide (DCP) at 98% purity is a high-temperature dialkyl peroxide with a 10-hour half-life temperature of approximately 116°C. It is widely used as a crosslinking and cure initiator in SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound), BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound), and polyethylene (PE) crosslinking applications at press temperatures of 150–180°C. DCP generates cumyloxy radicals and, upon beta-scission, methyl radicals and acetophenone. In SMC applications, DCP provides a controlled, slow exotherm that benefits thick or complex-shaped parts where rapid heat buildup could cause surface defects or voids. The high decomposition temperature (relative to TBPB) means DCP provides good scorch resistance — the SMC compound retains its flow characteristics until the press reaches full temperature. DCP is typically used at 0.5–1.5% on resin in SMC formulations, often in combination with a faster-acting co-initiator for thin-walled parts. The white crystalline solid requires melt dispersion into hot resin or dissolution in a carrier solvent for uniform incorporation into SMC paste.

Specifications

ParameterValue
AppearanceWhite crystalline powder/flakes
DCP Purity≥98%
Shelf Life24 months at ≤25°C
Melting Point38–41°C
Active Oxygen Content≥5.8%
10-hr Half-Life Temperature~116°C

Applications

SMC/BMC compression molding at 150–180°C for thick or complex partsCrosslinking of polyethylene (PE) pipes and wire insulationRubber crosslinking and vulcanizationHigh-temperature electrical laminate cureAutomotive SMC structural components requiring scorch resistance

FAQ

DCP has a higher T½ (~116°C) than TBPB (~100°C), meaning it decomposes more slowly at a given press temperature. This slower radical generation rate translates to a more gradual exotherm, which benefits flow and fill before gelation. For thick, complex SMC parts where rapid exotherm would trap volatiles or cause sink marks, DCP's controlled cure profile is preferred.

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