Tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)

Product Overview

TBHQ is a substituted hydroquinone used to slow oxidative deterioration in compatible formulations. Suitable grades are used in food and personal care products, while industrial applications include polymerization inhibition, oxidation control and chemical synthesis.

Performance depends on the formulation, concentration, processing conditions and storage environment.

Key Specifications

Confirm the specification, test methods and supporting documents for the selected grade. Final acceptance should follow the agreed specification and batch Certificate of Analysis.

Applications

1. Food Antioxidant

Appropriate food-grade TBHQ is used to delay oxidative rancidity in eligible oils, fats and fat-containing foods.

• Edible oils and fats: Selected vegetable oils and animal fats.

• Fat-containing foods: Eligible snack, fried, bakery and similar products.

• Formulation development: Assessment of oxidation stability, flavor retention and performance during storage.

Permitted applications and use levels depend on the food category and destination market. Industrial treatment rates should not be applied to food formulations.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

TBHQ can help protect oxidation-sensitive ingredients in compatible cosmetic formulations.

• Oil-containing products: Selected personal care formulations requiring oxidation control.

• Fragrance systems: Suitable perfume-oil formulations.

• Product development: Evaluation of compatibility, appearance, odor and oxidative stability.

Suitability and concentration should be established for the finished formulation and target market.

3. Polymers and Resins

Industrial TBHQ can be used as a polymerization inhibitor and antioxidant in selected reactive systems.

• Polymerization inhibition: Evaluation in suitable monomer and resin systems.

• Oxidation control: Selected industrial formulations susceptible to oxidative deterioration.

• Process compatibility: Assessment of storage behavior and any effect on subsequent polymerization or curing.

The required treatment rate depends on the specific system and operating conditions.

4. Biodiesel and Industrial Oxidation Control

TBHQ is used and studied as an antioxidant for improving biodiesel oxidation stability.

• Biodiesel: Evaluation through induction-period and storage-stability testing.

• Other oil-based systems: Assessment of solubility and compatibility with the existing additive package.

• Performance testing: Selection of concentration according to the formulation and required stability.

Results from one fuel or oil formulation should be verified before use in another.

5. Chemical Intermediate

TBHQ is also used in chemical synthesis and specialty chemical development.

• Organic synthesis: A substituted hydroquinone starting material for selected reactions.

• Development work: Selection according to reaction requirements and relevant impurity limits.

Packaging

The current packaging options listed for this product are:

• 25 kg fiber drums.

• 25 kg cartons.

Contact Aozun to confirm the available package, inner lining and any alternative packing requirements before ordering.

Storage and Handling

• Store in tightly closed original containers in a cool, dry and ventilated area.

• Protect from direct sunlight, excessive heat and moisture.

• Keep separate from strong oxidizing agents and other incompatible materials identified in the SDS.

• Follow the supplied storage conditions and expiry or retest information.

Safety Information

TBHQ can be harmful if swallowed or in contact with skin. It may cause skin or eye irritation and an allergic skin reaction.

• Minimize dust generation and use appropriate ventilation.

• Wear suitable protective gloves and eye protection.

• Prevent release into drains and the environment.

• Follow the current supplier SDS for the full hazard classification, first aid and disposal instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an assay of 99% automatically establish food-grade suitability?

No. Food use also depends on the applicable ingredient standard, impurity limits, analytical methods and supporting documentation for the destination market.

Can TBHQ replace BHA or BHT at the same addition rate?

A direct substitution should not be assumed. Compare antioxidant performance, solubility, processing conditions and permitted use levels in the intended formulation.

Does TBHQ provide antimicrobial preservation?

Its main function in food applications is antioxidant protection against oxidative deterioration. Microbial safety and preservation require separate assessment of the finished product.

Contact Aozun Chemical

For a TBHQ inquiry, please provide your application, required standard or specification, quantity and destination. Contact us to confirm grade availability, packaging, documentation and lead time.

Email: lisa@aozunchem.com
WhatsApp / WeChat: +86-186 5121 5887