Diethyl Phthalate
Diethyl Phthalate is a high-purity, colorless, oily liquid with a faint, sweet aromatic odor. With a minimum of 99% active content, DEP 99% is a trusted solvent and plasticizer that offers excellent stability, low volatility, and high compatibility with a wide range of organic and polymeric materials. It is widely used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, plastics, coatings, and fragrance industries where purity is critical for both performance and safety. Its mild toxicological profile and solvency characteristics make it a versatile component in numerous sensitive and industrial applications.
Diethyl Phthalate Uses
Primary Uses
Plasticizer for Polymers and Resins
- Used as a primary plasticizer for cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, and polyvinyl acetate to impart flexibility and durability.
- Enhances elasticity and clarity in molded goods, films, and coatings.
- Offers good plasticization for PVC in non-critical applications where clarity and low volatility are needed.
Fragrance and Cosmetic Applications
- Functions as a fixative in perfumes and body sprays to slow down evaporation and extend fragrance retention.
- Acts as a carrier solvent for essential oils and aroma chemicals in formulations requiring purity and inertness.
- Used in deodorants, lotions, and hair care products where solubility and mildness are necessary.
Pharmaceutical and Topical Products
- Employed as a solvent and carrier in topical pharmaceutical preparations such as ointments, gels, and creams.
- Used in transdermal delivery systems to enhance active ingredient dispersion and penetration.
- Suitable for formulations requiring low reactivity and high purity.
Solvent for Industrial and Chemical Formulations
- Serves as a high-purity solvent in dyes, resins, and inks where slow evaporation and solvency are critical.
- Applied in the manufacture of surface coatings, printing inks, and polishes to improve workability and film formation.
- Used in adhesives and sealants for its compatibility and softening properties.
Paints, Coatings, and Finishes
- Enhances flow, spreadability, and gloss in lacquer and coating systems.
- Improves flexibility and prevents cracking in cured paint films.
- Serves as a coalescing agent in specialty coatings.
Secondary Uses
Insect Repellents and Pesticide Carriers
- Acts as an effective solvent and dispersing agent in mosquito repellent formulations.
- Used in agriculture and public health products requiring controlled evaporation and safety on skin contact.
Personal Care and Hygiene Products
- Incorporated in nail polishes, removers, and bath oils for its solvency and spreadability.
- Used in aftershaves and cleansing creams as a mild and non-reactive carrier.
Textile and Leather Industry
- Functions as a softener and lubricant in textile processing.
- Used in leather finishing formulations to impart flexibility and smooth texture.
Laboratory and Analytical Use
- Used as a high-purity solvent in analytical chemistry and research.
- Applied in the extraction and purification of organic compounds.
Electronics and Optical Industry
- Serves as a cleaning and processing solvent for electronic components where low residue is essential.
- Applied in specialty optical formulations and lens coatings.
Plastic Film and Packaging
- Used in the production of flexible plastic films and sheets, especially those requiring transparency and stability.
Improves processing behavior and flexibility in food-safe and cosmetic packaging.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Diethyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate
- Common/Trade Name: Diethyl Phthalate 99%, DEP 99%
- CAS Number: 84-66-2
- HS Code: 2917.39.00
- Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₄O₄
- Synonyms:
- Diethyl Phthalate
- DEP
- Ethyl phthalate
- Phthalic acid diethyl ester
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Clear, colorless oily liquid
- Odor: Faint, sweet aromatic odor
- Purity: ≥ 99%
- Boiling Point: Approx. 295°C
- Melting Point: -4°C
- Density: ~1.12 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; fully miscible with alcohols, ethers, and most organic solvents
- Vapor Pressure: Very low at room temperature
- Stability: Chemically stable under standard conditions; avoid oxidizing agents
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under GHS; may cause mild skin and eye irritation
- Toxicity:
- Oral LD₅₀ (rat): ~8,600 mg/kg
- Dermal LD₅₀ (rabbit): >10,000 mg/kg
- Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: Not established
- ACGIH TLV: TWA = 5 mg/m³ (inhalable fraction)
- Flammability: Combustible liquid; flash point ~161°C
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Container Type: HDPE drums, steel barrels, or lined IBCs
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years under proper storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid direct contact; use appropriate protective equipment and ensure proper ventilation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- REACH registered and compliant
- Listed in major global chemical inventories (TSCA, EINECS, DSL, AICS, ENCS, PICCS)
- Acceptable for use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications in accordance with regulatory guidelines
- Manufactured in compliance with GMP for non-active ingredients when required
Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Moderately toxic to aquatic organisms
- Persistence: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Low to moderate (log Kow ~2.4)
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic under current classifications
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Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Protective clothing (lab coat or chemical apron)
- Respiratory protection in poorly ventilated environments
Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid inhalation of vapors and skin/eye contact
- Use in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods
- Prevent spillage and environmental release
- Keep away from heat, open flames, and oxidizing materials
Storage Measures:
- Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place
- Protect from moisture, direct sunlight, and static discharge
- Keep separate from incompatible materials like strong oxidizers and acids
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product
- Maintain clean work areas and follow routine decontamination procedures
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Get immediate medical attention.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; may emit toxic fumes (CO, CO₂) when burned
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and possibly phthalic acid derivatives