Bio - Based / Green Solvents, High-Purity Solvents

Dodecanedioic Acid (DDDA)

Dodecanedioic acid, abbreviated as DDDA, is a versatile dicarboxylic acid characterized by its linear twelve-carbon chain and two carboxylic acid functional groups located at the terminal positions. Chemically represented by the formula C12H22O4, this white crystalline solid exhibits unique properties that bridge the gap between shorter-chain diacids and long-chain fatty acids. DDDA is synthesized primarily through the multi-step oxidation of cyclododecane or via biotechnological fermentation processes using paraffin waxes. Its chemical architecture imparts significant hydrophobic characteristics while maintaining reactive sites for polymer synthesis and esterification. As a high-purity industrial intermediate, DDDA is renowned for its ability to enhance thermal stability, chemical resistance, and flexibility in various derivatives. It serves as a critical monomer in the production of high-performance polyamides and polyesters, where the long methylene chain provides a balance of crystallinity and toughness. Its low volatility and high melting point further distinguish it as a premier building block in applications.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High Purity: DDDA is typically supplied at 99% purity levels, minimizing side reactions and ensuring predictable polymer chain growth during condensation polymerization stages.
Hydrophobic Nature: The long twelve-carbon aliphatic backbone provides superior moisture resistance compared to shorter diacids like adipic acid, improving the durability of end products.
Thermal Stability: Polyamides derived from DDDA exhibit excellent heat resistance and retention of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, ideal for automotive and aerospace environments.
Chemical Resistance: It offers exceptional resistance to hydrolysis and organic solvents, enhancing the lifecycle of coatings and resins in aggressive industrial chemical environments.
Structural Flexibility: The extended chain length imparts improved impact resistance and flexibility to engineering plastics, preventing brittle failure in high-stress mechanical applications.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Weight and Formula: DDDA has a molecular weight of 230.30 g/mol and a molecular formula of C12H22O4, featuring terminal carboxyl groups.
Melting and Boiling Points: The substance features a precise melting point range of 127 to 130 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 245 Celsius.
Solubility Parameters: It displays low solubility in water (approximately 0.1 g/L at 20 degrees Celsius) but is readily soluble in alcohols and hot organic solvents.
Acid Value Specification: Technical grades typically maintain an acid value between 482 and 488 mg KOH/g, essential for calculating exact stoichiometric ratios in synthesis.
Vapor Pressure: DDDA exhibits extremely low vapor pressure at room temperature, contributing to its safety profile and ease of handling in large-scale industrial plants.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

High-Performance Polyamides: Primarily used in the production of Nylon 6,12 and Nylon 12,12, which are utilized for fuel lines, tubing, and technical filaments.
Powder Coatings: Functions as a cross-linking agent in epoxy and polyester powder coatings, providing excellent weatherability and outdoor durability for metal architectural components.
Corrosion Inhibitors: Derivatives such as salts or esters are employed in metalworking fluids and lubricants to prevent oxidative degradation and surface rust formation.
Fragrance and Adhesives: Used as a precursor for macrocyclic musks in the perfume industry and in hot-melt adhesive formulations requiring high bond strength.
Synthetic Lubricants: Serves as a base stock for high-end diester lubricants, offering superior viscosity indices and biodegradability for specialized industrial machinery and equipment.