Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC) CAS 55406-53-6

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC) – Broad-Spectrum Preservative for Coatings, Wood, and Cosmetics

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 55406-53-6

• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₂INO₂

• Molecular Weight: 281.09 g/mol

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Melting Point: 65–67°C

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in propylene glycol, alcohol, and organic solvents

Overview
Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) is a widely used preservative known for its potent antifungal and antibacterial activity. It is commonly incorporated into protective coatings, wood impregnations, paints, and cosmetic formulations to prevent microbial spoilage. The iodine component is responsible for its effective inhibition of mold, mildew, and bacteria, ensuring long-term protection of treated materials and products.

Applications

• Protective coatings and paints: Added to water-based and solvent-based coatings to prevent fungal growth and biofilm formation on surfaces.

• Wood preservation: Used in wood impregnations and stains to protect against rot and decay caused by fungi.

• Cosmetics and personal care: Employed as a preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, makeup, and other aqueous formulations to extend shelf life.

• Industrial: Used in cooling water systems, metalworking fluids, and adhesives to control microbial contamination.

• Textile and paper: Applied to prevent mildew growth on fabrics and paper products.

Mechanism of Action
IPBC acts by releasing iodine, which disrupts microbial enzymes and proteins, leading to cell death. Its efficacy is broad-spectrum, targeting both bacteria (especially Gram-positive) and fungi (including yeasts and molds). It is particularly effective against Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Candida species.

Key Benefits

• Effective at low concentrations (0.1–0.5% in coatings; 0.01–0.1% in cosmetics).

• Long-lasting protection due to slow release of active iodine.

• Compatible with many formulation ingredients and substrates.

• Stable under normal storage conditions.

• Approved for use in cosmetics in many countries (EU, US, Japan) with specified maximum usage levels (e.g., up to 0.1% in leave-on products).

Safety and Regulatory

• May cause skin sensitization in susceptible individuals; label warnings are recommended for cosmetics.

• Not for use in products applied to mucous membranes or in oral care.

• Avoid inhalation of dust; handle with adequate ventilation.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, dust mask) when handling.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, strong oxidizers, and reducing agents.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and degradation.

• Shelf life: typically 24 months under recommended conditions.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg drums, and custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), iodine content, and antimicrobial efficacy to ensure consistent performance.