Dibutyl maleate

Dibutyl maleate (CAS 105-76-0), commonly abbreviated as DBM, is a reactive diester monomer used across polymer chemistry and surface coating formulations. Known commercially as Staflex DBM and RC Comonomer DBM, it functions primarily as a reactive plasticizer.

It serves as a copolymerizable building block in resin systems. In acrylic and vinyl polymer production, DBM is incorporated as a comonomer to modify flexibility, adhesion, and film-forming properties in emulsion polymerization systems.

Printing inks and packaging coatings use it to improve substrate adhesion and control the mechanical properties of the cured film. In PVC and synthetic rubber compounding, it acts as a reactive plasticizer that bonds into the polymer matrix.

This bonding prevents the substance from migrating out over time, which is a critical advantage for long-life flexible articles. Personal care formulators have also evaluated DBM as an emollient ester component in skin-conditioning systems.

Dibutyl maleate is supplied as a clear liquid in standard industrial packaging including drums and IBCs. Technical grade is the primary commercial specification, with purity levels typically at 99% or above.

Bulk quantities are available for industrial polymer and coatings manufacturers. Smaller pack sizes are also offered for laboratory and formulation development use to meet diverse industrial requirements.