Insect repellents dibutyl phthalate

Dibutyl phthalate is used in pharmaceutical formulations as a plasticizer in film-coatings. It is also used extensively as a solvent particularly in cosmetic formulations such as anti-perspirants, hair shampoos and hair sprays. In addition to a number of industrial applications, dibutyl phthalate is used as an insect repellent, although it is not as effective as dimethyl phthalate. 

Dibutyl phthalate has multiple uses in a variety of materials. Primary uses for dibutyl phthalate are to soften and increase plastic flexibility, for example, in shower curtains, raincoats, food wraps, and car interiors to name a few. It has been used in insect repellents and as a solvent for perfume oil and resins. Dibutyl phthalate can be used as a plasticizer in nitrocellulose lacquers, elastomers, explosives, nail polish, and solid rocket propellants. Other uses include perfume fixative, textile lubricating agent, safety glass additive, printing inks, and adhesives. 

Dibutyl phthalate is used as a plasticizer, as an insect repellant and also for the impregnation of clothing material. A case of allergic sensitivity to dibutyl phthalate contained in an antiperspirant was reported by Calnan (30 ). The patch test concentration was 5% dibutyl phthalate in petrolatum. A similar case was reported by Sneddon (31 ). 

Insect repellants. The medical welfare of human beings is safeguarded by insect repellants, such as dimethyl phthalate and wi-diethyltoluamide against mosquitos, and dibutyl phthalate against the mites that carry scrub typhus (see Christophers, 1947 for the physical principles involved). 

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