The AIBN is free radical initiators in the mechanism of for addition polimerization reaction. You can replace it by hydroperoxide or peroxide coumpond such as Benzoyl peroxide (BPO). The choice it will be dependent on the solvent, monomer, reaction conditions...
AIBN (Azobisisobutyronitrile) is an organic compound having formula [(CH3)2C(CN)]2N2. It is white powder, soluble in alcohols and common organic solvents but is insoluble in water. It is often used as a foamer in plastics and rubber and as a radical initiator.
In most characteristic reaction, AIBN decomposes, eliminating a molecule of nitrogen gas to form two 2-cyanoprop-2-yl radicals:
These radicals can initiate free-radical polymerizations and other radical-induced reactions.
1. A mixture of styrene and maleic anhydride in toluene will react if heated, forming the copolymer upon addition of AIBN.
2. Example of a radical reaction that can be initiated by AIBN is the anti-Markovnikov hydrohalogenation of alkenes.
AIBN is safer to use than benzoyl peroxide (another radical initiator) because the risk of explosion is far less. However, it is still considered as an explosive compound, decomposing above 65 °C. A respirator dust mask, protective gloves and safety glasses are recommended.
you may use benzyl peroxide or Dicumyl peroxide depending one the types of the solvent you plan to used in free radical reaction/polymerization or depending on the nature of your starting material.
AIBN can initiate or mediate radical reactions as it decomposes thermally into two radicals.
There are many other compounds that can do the same (thanks to all contributions). Two things are of importance for these radical initiators when it comes to practical aspects:
1. Solubility in different media (unpolar organic solvent or water)
2. Start of the reaction (thermal or photo)
AIBN is NOT soluble in water and can only be initiated by thermal heating (thank you Anna and Samir).