Cobalt Octoate

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Cobalt Octoate is a liquid metal drying agent solution consisting of 10% cobalt octoate dissolved in an organic solvent carrier (typically mineral spirits or similar hydrocarbon solvent). It functions as a highly efficient catalyst to accelerate the oxidative curing and drying of alkyd resins, oils, and varnishes in coatings and paints. By promoting cross-linking and polymerization of unsaturated fatty acids in drying oils upon exposure to oxygen, it significantly reduces drying time and enhances film hardness, gloss, and durability. Cobalt Octoate 10% is widely used in industrial and decorative coatings, inks, and adhesives, valued for its strong catalytic activity even at low concentrations.

 

Description

Cobalt Octoate

Primary Uses 

  1. Paints, Coatings & Varnishes
  • Used as a drying catalyst in oil-based paints, alkyd resin paints, enamels, varnishes, and lacquers. 
  • Accelerates oxidative drying of drying oils such as linseed oil, tung oil, and soya oil. 
  • Enhances drying speed, film hardness, gloss, and chemical resistance of coatings. 
  • Enables faster production and handling times in industrial and commercial painting applications. 
  1. Printing Inks
  • Incorporated in oxidative drying printing inks to improve drying rate and tack-free time on substrates like paper, metal, and plastic. 
  • Enhances adhesion and surface finish quality. 
  1. Adhesives & Sealants
  • Used in formulations where drying and curing of unsaturated oil-based resins or adhesives is required. 
  • Improves set times and bonding durability. 

Secondary Uses 

  1. Wood Finishing
  • Added to wood stains, oils, and lacquers to accelerate drying and improve surface hardness and protection. 
  1. Artistic Oil Paint Mediums
  • Employed in oil painting mediums by artists to reduce drying time without compromising finish or color integrity. 
  1. Polymer & Resin Chemistry
  • Acts as a catalyst in cross-linking reactions of certain resins beyond traditional coatings. 
  1. Metal Treatments
  • Used in specialty protective metal coatings and drying formulations to promote faster curing.
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Cobalt(II) 2-ethylhexanoate (solution) 
  • Common/Trade Name: Cobalt Octoate 10% 
  • CAS Number: 136-52-7 (for pure cobalt octoate) 
  • HS Code: 2915.70.00 
  • Molecular Formula: Variable (complex cobalt salt solution) 
  • Synonyms: 
    • Cobalt 2-ethylhexanoate 
    • Cobalt octanoate solution 

 

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Liquid solution 
  • Color & Odor: Amber to reddish-brown; characteristic solvent odor 
  • Melting/Freezing Point: Not applicable (liquid) 
  • Boiling Point: Approx. 230–270°C (dependent on solvent) 
  • Density: ~1.0–1.1 g/cm³ 
  • Solubility: 
    • Soluble in organic solvents such as mineral spirits, aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones 
    • Insoluble in water 
  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong acids and bases 

 

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): 
    • Harmful if swallowed or inhaled 
    • Skin and respiratory sensitizer 
    • May cause allergic skin reactions 
    • Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects 
  • NFPA Ratings: 
    • Health: 2 
    • Flammability: 2 
    • Reactivity: 0 
  • Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA PEL; cobalt compounds generally limited to 0.1 mg/m³ (TWA) 
  • Toxicity: May cause skin and respiratory sensitization; chronic exposure can lead to lung effects and cobalt-related health risks 
  • Reactivity: Stable; avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids 

 

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and ignition sources 
  • Container Type: Metal or plastic drums with secure seals 
  • Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years if stored properly 
  • Special Handling: 
    • Use explosion-proof equipment and grounding to prevent static discharge 
    • Avoid skin and eye contact; ensure adequate ventilation 

 

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • FDA Status: Not approved for food or pharmaceutical use 
  • REACH Status: Registered as a cobalt compound under EU chemical safety regulations 
  • Transportation: Classified as flammable liquid (due to solvent content) and hazardous material for transport 
  • Waste Disposal: Dispose of as hazardous waste according to local regulations 

 

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid environmental release 
  • Persistence: May persist in soils and sediments due to cobalt content 
  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential 
  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Cobalt compounds classified as possible carcinogens (IARC Group 2B) 

Biodegradability: Organic solvents biodegradable; cobalt metal is elemental and persistent

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
  • Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Chemical-resistant gloves 
  • Safety goggles or face shield 
  • Respirator if ventilation is insufficient 
  • Protective clothing 

Handling Measures:

  • Avoid inhalation and skin contact 
  • Use in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods 
  • Prevent environmental release 

Storage Measures:

  • Store away from heat, sparks, and open flames 
  • Keep container tightly closed 
  • Ground and bond containers during transfer 

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling 
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas 

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; if breathing is difficult, provide oxygen and seek medical attention 
  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation or allergy develops 
  • Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical care if irritation persists 
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical assistance immediately 

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Flammable due to organic solvent carrier; cobalt salts themselves are not combustible 
  • Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) 
  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus 
  • Decomposition Products: May release cobalt oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and solvent vapors upon burning