Ethylhexanol, 2-Ethylhexyl Alcohol, 2- Ethyl Hexanol, Isooctanol, Octyl Alcohol, 2-EH, 104-76-7

2-ETHYLHEXANOL (2-EH)

2-Ethylhexanol / 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol / 2-Ethylhexyl Alcohol / Isooctanol / Octyl Alcohol / 2-EH
CAS Number: 104-76-7
EC Number: 203-234-3

SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2-Ethylhexanol is a branched-chain primary alcohol. It is found naturally in trace amounts in plants such as grapes and honeysuckle, and has also been detected in yeast metabolism. The technical product is typically >99% purity. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of plasticizers (DOP, DOTP, DOA, DOZ), 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, UV absorbers (octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate), surfactants, and lubricant additives.

SECTION 2: SYNONYMS AND OTHER NAMES

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

3.1. Molecular Structure

2-Ethylhexanol is a branched primary alcohol with the hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the terminal carbon of a branched C8 chain.

Structural Formula:

        CH₂OH
         |
   CH₃ - CH₂ - CH₂ - CH₂ - CH - CH₂ - CH₃
                        |
                       CH₃

Simplified Representation:
CH₃(CH₂)₃CH(C₂H₅)CH₂OH

3.2. Molecular Formula

C₈H₁₈O

3.3. Molecular Weight

130.23 g/mol

3.4. Key Structural Features

SECTION 4: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 5: SOLUBILITY PROFILE

SECTION 6: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

SECTION 7: REACTION EQUATIONS

7.1. Esterification (Plasticizer Production)

2-EH + R-COOH → 2-EH Ester + H₂O

7.2. DOP (Di-2-Ethylhexyl Phthalate) Synthesis

Phthalic Anhydride + 2 (2-EH) → DOP + H₂O

7.3. Oxidation to 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid

2-EH + [O] → 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid + H₂O

7.4. Dehydration

2-EH → 2-Ethylhexene + H₂O (at high temperature)

SECTION 8: PRODUCTION METHOD

2-Ethylhexanol is produced industrially by the aldol condensation of n-butyraldehyde followed by hydrogenation.

Overall Reaction:
2 n-Butyraldehyde → 2-Ethylhexenal → 2-Ethylhexanol

SECTION 9: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 10: APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

10.1. Plasticizer Production (Largest Application)

10.2. PVC and Polymers

10.3. Drilling and Oil Field

10.4. Paints, Varnishes, and Coatings

10.5. Inks and Printing

10.6. Cleaning Products

10.7. Cosmetics and Sunscreens

10.8. Metal Extraction

10.9. Agriculture

10.10. Other Applications

SECTION 11: EXAMPLE FORMULATIONS

11.1. DOP (Di-2-Ethylhexyl Phthalate) Synthesis

Process: React at 180-220°C, continuously removing water. Recover excess alcohol under vacuum.

11.2. Drilling Defoamer Concentrate

Dosage: 0.1-0.5 L/m³ of drilling mud.

11.3. Slow-Drying Alkyd Varnish

Benefit: 2-EH reduces brush marks and smooths the surface.

SECTION 12: ALTERNATIVES AND COMPARISON

SECTION 13: GHS CLASSIFICATION

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):

SECTION 14: FIRST AID MEASURES

SECTION 15: FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

SECTION 16: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

SECTION 17: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

SECTION 18: PACKAGING OPTIONS

SECTION 19: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

SECTION 20: REGULATORY INFORMATION

SECTION 21: ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

SECTION 22: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q1: Are 2-ethylhexanol and isooctanol the same?
A: Isooctanol generally refers to a mixture of branched C8 alcohols. Commercial isooctanol contains 2-ethylhexanol as the main component but may contain small amounts of other isomers. Technical grades can be considered equivalent.

Q2: What should I do if 2-EH gets into my eyes?
A: Immediately rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. It has high eye irritation potential.

Q3: Which plasticizers are produced using 2-EH?
A: Mainly DOP (DEHP), DOTP, DOA, DOZ, TOTM. These plasticizers are used in PVC products such as cables, films, and flooring.

Q4: Does 2-EH mix with water?
A: Practically insoluble. Solubility is only 0.07 g/100 mL and it is less dense than water; it may form a thin film on the water surface.

Q5: Is the odor harmful?
A: The characteristic odor is not unpleasant, but high concentrations of vapors may cause respiratory irritation. Ventilation should be provided.

Q6: What is the shelf life of 2-EH?
A: More than 24 months in cool, dry, sealed packaging. Recommended to use within 6 months after opening.

Q7: Why is 2-EH preferred as a defoamer in drilling fluids?
A: Its high boiling point prevents evaporation in deep well high-temperature conditions; also, because it is insoluble in water, it maintains its spreading effect on foam for a long time.

Q8: What alternatives can be used?
A: For plasticizer production: 2-propylheptanol or isononanol. For solvent applications: butyl diglycol or low-odor glycol ethers. However, each offers different physical properties.

SECTION 23: QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

SECTION 24: CRITICAL NOTICES AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL NOTICES:

1. Hazardous Air Pollutant (HAP) Status: 2-Ethylhexanol is NOT listed as a Hazardous Air Pollutant, making it a preferred choice for indoor and environmental applications.

2. Eye Irritation: 2-EH is a serious eye irritant. Always use protective goggles when handling. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.

3. Skin Irritation: Prolonged or repeated skin contact may cause irritation. Use chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene).

4. Vapor Exposure: At elevated temperatures, vapors may cause respiratory irritation. Use adequate ventilation.

5. Water Insolubility: 2-EH is practically insoluble in water and floats on water surfaces. Spills may spread on water; contain immediately to prevent environmental contamination.

6. Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.

7. Compatibility: Compatible with most metals (carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum). Use HDPE or stainless steel containers for long-term storage.

8. Plasticizer Applications: The branched structure provides excellent low-temperature flexibility to PVC plasticizers.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at room temperature (15-25°C). Keep containers tightly closed.

• Handling: Use protective gloves, goggles, and appropriate clothing. Avoid prolonged skin contact.

• Transfer: Use sealed transfer systems. Use stainless steel or HDPE equipment.

• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation, especially at elevated temperatures.

• Spill Management: Absorb with inert material. Prevent entry into drains and watercourses.

• Waste Management: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations. Incineration is recommended.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice.