1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s 2-Ethyl Hexanol (2-EH) is a clear, colorless, C8 branched alcohol with a mild odor, produced by the aldol condensation of n-butyraldehyde. This commercial oxo-alcohol is the primary and irreplaceable raw material for the production of PVC plasticizers (phthalates like DOP and DOTP), synthetic lubricants (di-isooctyl ester base stocks), and an extraction agent in the metals industry.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Standard Plasticizer Grade | High Purity Synthesis Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | ≥ 99.0 | ≥ 99.7 | % |
| Water | ≤ 0.1 | ≤ 0.05 | % |
| Acidity (as 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid) | ≤ 0.01 | ≤ 0.005 | % |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 10 | ≤ 5 | Pt-Co |
| Density (20°C) | 0.832 – 0.835 | 0.833 – 0.835 | g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | 183 – 186 | 184 – 185 | °C |
3. Features & Benefits
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Precursor for Ideal PVC Plasticizers: Reacts with phthalic anhydride to produce DOP and with PTA to produce DOTP, giving PVC excellent flexibility, durability, and formability.
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Cold-Temperature Lubricity: Its very low pour point (below -70°C) makes it a valuable base for hydraulic fluids and cold-region engine oils.
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High Chemical & Thermal Stability: Resistant to oxidation and degradation when exposed to air and high temperatures.
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Extraction Solvent: The ability to chelate metal ions for selective extraction in hydrometallurgy.
4. Industrial Applications
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Plasticizer Production: The primary feed for DOP, DOTP, and TOTM, used in cables, flooring, and artificial leather.
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Lubricant Production: Ester base stocks for two-stroke engine oils and compressor fluids.
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Chemical Industry: An extraction agent for rare earth metals and a surfactant intermediate.
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Adhesive & Sealant Production: A slow-evaporating solvent for solvent-based adhesives.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This liquid is flammable and a skin and eye irritant. Its vapors are narcotic at high concentrations. The Arnico MSDS file must be obtained.
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Storage Conditions: Store in carbon steel or stainless steel tanks, sealed, in a cool, ventilated environment, away from oxidizers.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Viton or neoprene gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator with an A-type filter are required.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico 2-EH shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with a precise GC analysis and color measurement.
