2-Ethylhexanoic Acid (also known as 2-Ethylcaproic acid) is a colorless transparent oily liquid with CAS Number is 149-57-5. It is also commonly referred to as α-ethylcaproic acid, ethylhexoic acid.
It is slightly soluble in water but highly miscible with most organic solvents. It is stable under normal conditions but reacts with strong oxidizers, reducing agents, and strong alkalis.

2-Ethylhexanoic Acid, a versatile branched-chain saturated carboxylic acid widely used as a key intermediate in the production of metal salts, driers, stabilizers, plasticizers, and synthetic lubricants.

 

Technical Specifications

ITEMS SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance Colorless transparent oily liquid
Purity ≥99.8%
Moisture Content ≤0.1%
Color (Pt-Co) ≤5 Hazen
Acid Value ≥385 KOH mg/g

 

Package & Storage

  • Net weight 185kg/190kg drum.
  • Store in a cool, well-ventilated warehouse. Keep away from sources of ignition and heat. Protect from direct sunlight. Maintain container seal. Store separately from oxidizers and avoid mixing.

 

Key Benefits of 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid

Excellent Solubility and Compatibility:
Forms highly soluble metal salts ideal for solvent-based and high-solids systems.

Effective Drying and Catalysis:
Enhances oxidative drying in paints, inks, and coatings.

Stabilization Properties:
Improves heat stability in PVC and provides corrosion inhibition in lubricants and coolants.

Versatile Intermediate:
Serves as a precursor for plasticizers (including PVB), synthetic lubricants, emollients, and specialty chemicals.

High Boiling Point and Low Volatility:
Contributes to low-VOC formulations and long-lasting performance.

 

Applications and Uses of 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid

2-Ethylhexanoic Acid finds extensive use across several key industries:

Paints, Coatings, and Inks

  • Production of metal driers (siccatives) for oxidative drying paints, varnishes, enamels, and printing inks.
  • Improves drying speed, gloss, and durability in alkyd resins and coatings.

Plastics and Polymers

  • Synthesis of PVC heat stabilizers.
  • Manufacture of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) plasticizers used in safety glass interlayers for automotive and architectural applications.
  • Modification of acrylic resins and other polymer systems.

Lubricants and Automotive

  • Corrosion inhibitors in automotive coolants and metalworking fluids.
  • Raw material for synthetic lubricants, esters, and lubricant additives.
  • Wood preservatives and specialty lubricant components.

Other Industrial Applications

  • Production of emollients and cosmetic intermediates.
  • Pharmaceutical and chemical intermediates.
  • Adhesives, sealants, and thickeners for oils and greases.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid safe for use in food or cosmetics?
A: It is primarily an industrial chemical. While derivatives may appear in certain applications, pure 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid is not intended for direct food contact or cosmetic use without specific regulatory approval.

Q: Why is 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid used in paint driers?
A: It forms highly soluble metal soaps with metals like cobalt and manganese, which catalyze the oxidative drying process in alkyd-based paints, inks, and varnishes, providing efficient and low-odor performance.

Q: What are the storage requirements for it?
A: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from light, heat, and incompatible substances. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight to maintain product quality.

Q: What industries benefit most from 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid?
A: The paints & coatings, plastics (PVC and PVB), lubricants, and automotive industries are the primary users due to its role in driers, stabilizers, plasticizers, and corrosion inhibitors.

 

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