P-Phenylenediamine (PPD)

P-Phenylenediamine (PPD) is a white to light-purple crystalline aromatic amine that oxidizes to dark colors on exposure to air. It is one of the most widely used primary intermediates in oxidative hair dyes and is the key building block for high-performance permanent hair color formulations. PPD is also employed in rubber antioxidants, textile dyes, fur dyes, photographic developers, and certain engineering polymers.

Appearance:
White Crystal or flake
CAS No.:
106-50-3
Molecular Formula:
C6H8N2
Molecular Weight:
108.14
EINECS:
203-404-7
Flash Point:
156 °C
Solubility:
Slightly soluble in water

Availability:



Inquiry Add to Basket

Product Description

Product Description

P-Phenylenediamine (PPD) is a high-purity aromatic amine widely recognized as the most effective and commonly used primary intermediate in oxidative (permanent) hair dye formulations. When combined with couplers and hydrogen peroxide, PPD produces intense, long-lasting color results across the full shade spectrum from blonde to black. It is also used in dyeing furs, textiles (especially para-aramid fibers), rubber chemicals, and as a photographic developing agent.

Technical Specification

ITEMS	SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance	White Crystal or flake
Purity	≥99.9%
Fe	≤10ppm

Packaging and Storage

Packed in 25kgs net fibre drums.
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from oxidizing agents and direct sunlight.

Applications of P-Phenylenediamine (PPD)

Permanent hair dyes (primary intermediate)
Fur and leather dyeing
Rubber antioxidant and antiozonant intermediate
Polymerization inhibitor in acrylic monomers
Photographic developer
Laboratory reagent and chemical synthesis

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is P-Phenylenediamine (PPD) safe for use in hair dyes?

A: When used according to regulatory guidelines (≤ 2% in final oxidative mixture) and applied by trained professionals with proper patch testing, PPD is considered safe by EU SCCS, FDA, and CIR. It remains the gold-standard intermediate for achieving vibrant, fade-resistant permanent hair color.

Q: Why does PPD cause allergic reactions in some people?

A: PPD is a potent skin sensitizer (classified Skin Sens. 1). Approximately 1–6% of the population may develop contact allergy after repeated exposure. A 48-hour patch test is mandatory in many countries before first-time use.

Q: Are there PPD-free permanent hair dye alternatives?

A: Yes, alternatives such as toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate (PTDS) or hydroxyethyl-p-phenylenediamine sulfate (HEPP) are used in "PPD-free" formulations, though they may provide slightly different shade performance and longevity.

Q: Can PPD be used in semi-permanent or temporary dyes?

A: No. PPD requires oxidation with hydrogen peroxide to develop color and only works in permanent (two-component) oxidative dyes.

Q: What is the difference between PPD and Para-Aminophenol (PAP)?

A: Both are primary intermediates, but PPD produces cooler, ashier tones and deeper blacks, while PAP is typically used for warmer red and copper shades.