Dioctyl phthalate (DOP) has been used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Plasticizer: DOP is widely used as a plasticizer for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, such as cables, films, artificial leather, and flooring. It imparts flexibility and durability to these materials, making them easier to process and less brittle.
- Solvent: DOP is used as a solvent in a variety of industrial applications, including inks, coatings, and adhesives. It is also used as a solvent for pesticides, resins, and oils.
- Lubricant: DOP is a good lubricant and is often used in the manufacture of lubricants for machinery, including hydraulic fluids, gear oils, and cutting fluids.
- Personal Care Products: DOP is also used in personal care products, such as cosmetics, and as a solvent for fragrances and perfumes.
- Other industrial applications: DOP is used as a flame retardant, as a softener for textiles, as an emulsifier for pesticides, and as a plasticizer in other types of polymers.