
Product Name: Optical Brightener BBU / Fluorescent Brightener 220
Chemical Name:
Tetrasodium 4,4′-bis[(4-anilino-6-morpholino-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]stilbene-2,2′-disulfonate
Color Index: C.I. 220
CAS: 16470-24-9
Molecular Formula: C₄₀H₄₀N₁₂Na₄O₁₆S₄
Formula Weight: 1165.04 g/mol
Synonyms: Fluorescent Brightener 220; FBA 220; Optical Brightening Agent BBU; Blankophor BBU; Leucophor U; C.I. 220; Phorwhite BBU
Application:
Textiles (Cotton, Viscose, Linen, Polyamide), Paper Manufacturing (Pulp, Coating, Surface Sizing), Detergents, Printing (Discharge Printing Paste)
1. Product Description
Achieve Exceptional Whiteness with Optical Brightener BBU – The Premium Stilbene-Based Whitening Agent for Textiles and Paper.
Optical Brightener BBU, internationally designated as Fluorescent Brightener 220 (C.I. 220), is a high-performance distyrylbiphenyl derivative that represents the industry standard for whitening cellulose fibers and paper products . This sophisticated disulfonic compound features a unique stilbene-based molecular architecture with multiple water-soluble groups, delivering exceptional whitening efficacy combined with outstanding application versatility .
The advanced molecular structure of BBU enables superior photophysical performance: it absorbs invisible ultraviolet radiation in the 348-350 nm range and re-emits it as brilliant blue-violet visible light, effectively neutralizing the natural yellowish cast inherent in cellulose fibers and paper pulp . With its anionic character and excellent substantivity to cellulosic substrates, BBU delivers a clean, "whiter-than-white" appearance that enhances the perceived quality of finished products.
What truly distinguishes Optical Brightener BBU from conventional whitening agents is its exceptional combination of performance features:
Superior Water Solubility: Dissolves rapidly in water with solubility of 300 g/L in boiling water and 150 g/L in cold water, enabling easy preparation and uniform distribution .
Outstanding Hard Water Resistance: The whitening effect remains stable in the presence of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ ions, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging water conditions .
Excellent Bleach Compatibility: Demonstrates good resistance to peroxide bleaching agents and reductive bleaches (sodium hydrosulfite), maintaining whitening efficacy in integrated bleaching processes .
Broad PH Stability: Performs optimally across a pH range of 7-10, with good acid resistance maintaining whitening effects even at pH 3-4 .
Versatile Application Methods: Suitable for exhaust dyeing, padding, and continuous processes across textile, paper, and detergent industries .
Our Optical Brightener BBU is manufactured under strict quality controls with ≥99% purity, ensuring consistent batch-to-batch performance, minimal impurities, and compliance with international quality standards .
2.Product Specifications (Technical Data Sheet)
| Property | Specification | Insight |
| Product Name | Optical Brightener BBU (Fluorescent Brightener 220) | Premium stilbene-based brightener for textiles and paper |
| Appearance | Light yellow to yellow uniform powder | Free-flowing, fine powder with excellent dispersion characteristics |
| CAS No. | 16470-24-9 | Verified chemical registry number |
| EINECS/EC No. | 240-245-2 | Listed in European inventory |
| Molecular Formula | C₄₀H₄₀N₁₂Na₄O₁₆S₄ | Disulfonic stilbene structure with triazine groups |
| Formula Weight | 1165.04 g/mol | |
| Solubility | Cold water: 150 g/L; Boiling water: 300 g/L; Soluble in DMSO | Excellent water solubility across temperatures; prepare fresh for optimal results |
| Solubility in DMSO | Soluble (≥ 10 mg/mL) | Suitable for research and specialized formulations |
| Style | Anionic / Stilbene Fluorescent Whitening Agent (FBA) | Anionic character for compatibility with aqueous systems |
| Maximum UV Absorption (λmax) | 348-350 nm ± 1 nm | Efficient absorption of near-UV radiation |
| Fluorescence Intensity | 97-103% (vs. standard) | Consistent whitening efficacy |
| Tinting Strength | High | Exceptional whitening with minimal dosage |
| Purity | ≥ 99% | High purity ensures consistent performance |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 5.0% | Low moisture ensures stability and free-flowing properties |
| Water Insolubles | ≤ 0.5% | High purity with minimal residue |
| Fineness (250μm sieve) | ≤ 10% residue | Fine particle size ensures uniform dispersion |
| pH Value (1% solution) | 8-10 | Slightly alkaline, suitable for most applications |
| Melting Point | > 300°C (decomposes) | Excellent thermal stability for high-temperature processing |
| Storage Conditions | Store in cool, dry, ventilated warehouse; avoid sunlight, moisture, and heat | Shelf life: 2 years under proper storage |
| Packing | 25 kg fiber drums / cardboard cartons with PE inner liner; 500 kg jumbo bags; custom sizes available | Secure, moisture-proof packaging to maintain product integrity |
| Application | Cotton, viscose, linen, polyamide, paper pulp, paper coating, surface sizing, detergents | Versatile across multiple industries |
3. Product Application
Textile Industry – Primary Application:
Optical Brightener BBU is the preferred whitening agent for cellulosic fibers, offering exceptional performance across various application methods :
| Fiber Type | Application Method | Recommended Dosage | Processing Conditions |
| Cotton & Viscose | Exhaust Dyeing | 0.08-0.3% (o.w.f) | 80-98°C, bath ratio 1:20-40, 10-30 minutes |
| Cotton & Viscose | Padding Dyeing | 0.1-0.5% (1-5 g/L) | 60°C bath, 10-20 minutes, steam 45 minutes |
| Linen & Cellulose | Exhaust Dyeing | 0.1-0.3% (o.w.f) | 80-95°C, pH 7-10, 20-30 minutes |
| Polyamide (Nylon) | Exhaust Dyeing | 0.1-0.3% (o.w.f) | 70-80°C, pH 6-8, 20-30 minutes |
Key Textile Applications:
Knitted Cotton Fabrics: BBU is especially suitable for whitening knitted cotton fabrics, delivering uniform, brilliant whiteness .
Discharge Printing Paste: Excellent compatibility with discharge printing formulations for pattern whitening effects .
Resin Finishing Compatibility: Demonstrates excellent compatibility with resin finishing agents for combined processing .
Paper Industry:
BBU is widely used in paper manufacturing for its high solubility and excellent whitening effect :
| Application Method | Recommended Dosage | Process Notes |
| Pulp Whitening | 0.1-0.3% (on dry pulp) | Add directly to pulp during stock preparation |
| Surface Sizing | 0.5-5 g/L | Combine with starch, CMC, or PVA for optimal results |
| Coating Process | 0.1-1.4% (on coating weight) | Add to coating color with binders for enhanced brightness |
4.Storage
This product may be stored up to two years in a sealed container. Containers should be kept tightly closed when not in use and stored in a cool, dry place.
5.Packaging
Usually is 25Kg/drum or paper box or bag with inner double PE liner Or provide customized packaging according to customer requirements.
6.Our advantage
1) Provide free samples for testing or comparing the effect difference and cost performance.
2) Fast response speed, customers' questions at any time will be responded to in two hours.
3) Fast delivery: the fastest delivery can be made on the same day.
4)Different packaging solutions: provide various packaging options according to customer requirements.
5)Technical guidance: provide improved whitening and coloring formulas and guidance according to customer production materials.
6) Sample retention or sample mailing before bulk delivery.
7) Providing certificationes, such as Reach certification.
8) Different payment methods: TT LC, etc.
9) Providing door-to-door DDP service.