Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), identified by CAS No. 117-81-7, is a chemical compound widely utilized across various industrial sectors. For B2B professionals involved in chemical procurement and formulation, a clear understanding of DEHP's properties, applications, and safety aspects is essential for making informed purchasing decisions. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, we aim to provide clarity on this crucial industrial chemical.

What is DEHP? Properties and Specifications

DEHP is a diester of phthalic acid and the branched-chain 2-ethylhexanol. It is characterized as a colorless, oily liquid with a high boiling point and low volatility. Key specifications typically include:

  • Appearance: Colorless oily liquid.
  • Purity: High purity, often specified as ≥99.5% via Gas Chromatography (GC).
  • CAS Number: 117-81-7.
  • Molecular Formula: C24H38O4.
  • Molecular Weight: Approximately 390.56 g/mol.
  • Density: Around 0.983-0.987 g/cm³ at 20°C.
  • Flash Point: Typically around 218°C (COC).

These properties make DEHP an effective plasticizer, imparting flexibility, softness, and durability to rigid materials.

Key Industrial Applications of DEHP

The versatility of DEHP has led to its extensive use in several industries:

  • PVC Plasticization: This is DEHP's most significant application. It transforms brittle PVC into flexible materials used in products such as electrical cables, automotive components, flooring, medical tubing, and films.
  • Adhesives and Sealants: DEHP is used to modify the viscosity and enhance the flexibility of various adhesive and sealant formulations, improving their performance and application characteristics.
  • Inks and Coatings: It acts as a plasticizer and solvent in printing inks and coatings, contributing to better film formation, adhesion, and flexibility of the dried film.
  • Other Uses: Historically, it has found applications in hydraulic fluids and as a component in some specialized chemical formulations.

For businesses looking to buy DEHP, understanding these applications helps in identifying the correct grade and specifications required for optimal results. Partnering with a reliable DEHP supplier ensures you receive material that meets these demanding standards.

Safety Considerations for Industrial Buyers

While DEHP offers significant functional benefits, it's important for industrial buyers to be aware of regulatory considerations and safety guidelines. DEHP has faced scrutiny and has restrictions in certain sensitive applications due to potential health and environmental concerns. Manufacturers and users must stay informed about current regulations in their respective markets and consider alternatives where mandated or deemed appropriate. A responsible DEHP manufacturer will provide comprehensive safety data sheets (SDS) and support clients in navigating these requirements. For industrial applications where DEHP remains a preferred and compliant choice, sourcing from a trusted supplier with high-quality, well-documented products is paramount.

As a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, we are committed to providing high-purity DEHP that meets stringent industrial requirements. We encourage our B2B partners to consult our technical datasheets and engage with our team to ensure the most effective and compliant use of DEHP in their formulations.