2-Ethylhexanoic acid (2-EHA) is an all-around aliphatic carboxylic acid. This is a peculiar feature. It is broadly used in industrial & specialty applications. With its eight-carbon backbone and a mild odor, it serves as a precursor to metal soaps, esters, plasticizers, corrosion inhibitors, and polymer-catalysts. Often supplied as a colorless, viscous liquid, 2-EHA combines favorable solubility in organic solvents with manageable handling properties, making it a cornerstone in formulations ranging from paints and lubricants to PVC stabilizers and coolant additives.
2-Ethylhexanoic acid (CAS 149-57-5), also known as octoic acid or α-ethylcaproic acid, is a branched monocarboxylic acid with the formula CH₃–(CH₂)₃–CH(C₂H₅)–CO₂H. It is a racemic mixture of the R as well as S isomers. It is peculiarly encountered as a clear to pale yellow liquid. Its melting point is about –59 °C (–74 °F), and it boils near 228 °C (442 °F) at atmospheric pressure. The density is roughly 0.903–0.906 g/mL, with a refractive index around 1.425 and a log P (~2.6–2.7), indicating moderate lipophilicity.
Water solubility is low (~1.4–2 g/L at 20 °C), with a pKa near 4.8. The vapor pressure is very low (<0.04 mbar at 20 °C), and vapors are heavier than air (vapor density ~5× that of air). Flash point is around 114 °C (237 °F), with auto-ignition at 310 °C (589 °F). OSHA and ACGIH exposure limits set the inhalable concentration at 5 mg/m³ (TWA).
It is classified as corrosive (Category 1), posing risks of severe skin burns and eye damage, with potential reproductive toxicity (H360). Occupational exposure must be strictly limited. Environmentally, it is harmful to aquatic life but is biodegradable; toxicity thresholds for algae, fish, and daphnia range from 41 to 110 mg/L.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 149-57-5 |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic |
| Molecular Formula | C8H16O2 |
| Melting Point | –59 °C |
| Molecular Weight | 144.21 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 228 °C @ 760 mmHg |
| Density | 0.903–0.906 g/mL |
| Refractive Index | 1.425 (nD 20) |
| Vapor Pressure | <1 Pa at 25 °C |
| Flash Point (PMCC) | 114 °C |
| Auto-ignition Temp. | 310 °C |
| pKa | ~4.8 |
| Log P | ~2.6–2.7 |
| pKa | ~4.8 |
| Water Solubility | ~1.4–2 g/L at 20 °C |
| Vapor Density | ~4.98 |
| Exposure Limits | 5 mg/m³ (TWA inhalable) |
| Hazards Classification | Corrosive (skin/eyes), reproductive toxicity H36 |
| Aquatic Toxicity | EC50 algae:41 mg/L; LC50 fish:70 mg/L |
Assay (Purity by GC): ≥ 99.5%
Water Content (Karl Fischer): ≤ 0.10%
Acid Value: 382–395 mg KOH/g
Color (APHA / Hazen): ≤ 10 (fresh product)
Refractive Index @ 20°C: 1.423–1.427
Iron Content (Fe): ≤ 1.0 ppm
Chloride Content: ≤ 10 ppm
Non-volatile Matter: ≤ 0.01%
Sulfuric Acid Color (Test): ≤ 60 Hazen (optional test for aging/color stability)
Odor Quality: Mild, characteristic (subjective, but included in some specs)
Appearance on Delivery: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid, free from suspended particles
2-EHA is a branched C8 carboxylic acid:
C8H16O2A more systematic name is 3-ethylheptanoic acid (IUPAC: 2-ethylhexanoic acid). The branch at carbon 2 enhances lipophilicity compared to straight-chain analogs. 3D diagrams show the carboxyl group projecting from the branched center.
Handling:
Use in well-ventilated areas—local exhaust or fume hoods are recommended.
Prevent skin and eye contact: use gloves, goggles, face shields, and protective clothing per OSHA/EN standards.
Avoid inhalation of vapor/mist; respirators may be needed if the TLV is likely to be exceeded.
Storage:
Store tightly closed, upright in a cool (15–25 °C), dry, well-ventilated area; avoid heat sources and direct sunlight.
Keep away from oxidizers, strong bases, and reducing agents.
Use corrosion-resistant containers (e.g., stainless steel).
Segregate from incompatible substances and adhere to flammable/combustible liquid storage codes.
Accidental Release:
Evacuate area and use PPE.
Contain spill: absorb with inert material, collect in suitable containers, and dispose as hazardous waste. Prevent entry into drains or waterways.
Fire Fighting:
Use CO₂, dry chemical, or foam extinguishers. Please avoid water jet usage—may spread fire.
Firefighters should wear SCBA and chemical-resistant gear.
Combustion emits CO and CO₂.
Commercially available formats include:
100 mL, 250 mL, 1 L bottles (lab scale, e.g. Sigma-Aldrich, TCI).
Industrial drums (e.g., 210 kg), IBC totes (910 kg), or bulk tanks (Perstorp).
Custom flexibag or ISO-tank shipments for large-scale consumers.
Q: What is the purity of Shakti’s 2-EHA?
A: ≥ 99.5 % (water-free GC), with ≤ 0.10 % water and ≤ 10 Hazen color.
Q: What packaging options are offered?
A: Lab bottles (100 mL–1 L), drums (210 kg), IBC (910 kg), bulk flexibags, ISO tanks.
Q: Are MSDS/SDS available?
-A: Yes, comprehensive SDS is provided, detailing hazards and handling.
Q: What exposure controls are recommended?
A: Use fume hoods, respirators, eye/face protection, gloves, and chemical-resistant clothing.
Q: Is 2-EHA compatible with PVC?
A: Yes—it functions as an acid scavenger and works with metal soaps to stabilize PVC.
Q: Can it be used in polymerization catalysts?
A: Absolutely—especially for ring-opening polymerization (e.g., PLA, PLGA) via Sn(II) catalysts.
Q: Is 2-EHA environmentally safe?
A: It biodegrades but can be toxic to aquatic organisms above ~41–110 mg/L.
Q: What solvents is it compatible with?
A: Soluble in most nonpolar solvents like toluene, xylene, aliphatic hydrocarbons; insoluble in water.
Q: What are the typical transport classifications?
A: UN 3265, Class 8 corrosive, Packing Group III via DOT/IATA/IMDG/TDG.
Q: What analytical methods verify quality?
A: GC (ISO 2718), water via ASTM E1064, acid value titration per PO 2921, color per ISO 2211 or ASTM D1209.
2-Ethylhexanoic acid is a high-value industrial building block, prized for its versatility in synthesis, catalysis, stabilization, and corrosion inhibition. Its well-defined physical and chemical specifications—coupled with strong safety data, packaging flexibility, and diverse end applications—make it an essential ingredient in coatings, plastics, lubricants, polymers, and automotive fluids. With Shakti Chemicals serving as reliable suppliers, traders, dealers, importers or distributors in Maharashtra, customers benefit from quality-assured 2-EHA backed by technical support and regulatory compliance. Whether for lab-scale R&D or large-scale industrial use, Shakti Chemicals is a trusted partner for your 2-EHA needs.
Contact us today for bulk inquiries, technical datasheets, and pricing for 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid tailored to your requirements.
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