Dicumyl peroxide (CED0008868)

Dicumyl peroxide (C18H22O2) is an organic compound with an average molecular weight of 270.37 g/mol. Dicumyl peroxide belongs to the phenylpropanes, a subclass of benzene and substituted derivatives within the organic compounds. In industrial applications, it serves as a catalyst, hardener, flame retardant, chemical reaction regulator, and processing aid not otherwise specified. Within the field of plastics, the compound is used in polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, low-density polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene, and it is present in polypropylene. The compound has been identified in 58 recorded sources across various sectors. In the building and construction sector, it is found in ladders, floors, waterproofing sprays, and tents or canopies. It is present in household cleaning and consumer products, including soap detergents, bleaching agents, tobacco smoke filters, perfumes within detergents and soaps, and cigar cigarettes. It is also found in food, food processing and cookware, specifically in food contact materials, food preservation, the processing of fish, and fermentation processes for beer and the preparation of wine or sparkling wine. Environmental sources include aquatic systems and sediments, such as seawater, freshwater, surface water, and groundwater, as well as drinking water, tap water, bottled water, and desalinated water. Additionally, it is found in electrical and electronic equipment, including antennas, auxiliary devices, adjustable resistors, coils, and communication cables or conductors. Exposure to dicumyl peroxide may occur through touch, oral, and inhalation routes.