Inhibiting Polymerization: Monitoring the Concentration of TBC in Styrene According to ASTM D4590

More than 27 million tons of styrene monomer (C₆H₅CH=CH₂) are produced worldwide each year. The stabilizer 4-tert butylcatechol (TBC) plays a crucial role in preventing premature polymerization during storage and transport of styrene, butadiene, vinyl acetate, and other reactive monomers. In this application note, a Process Analyzer from Metrohm Applikon is used for photometric analyses of TBC in styrene.