2-Ethylhexanoic acid
CAS 149-57-5
EC 205-743-6
Formula C8H16O2
MW 144.21 g/mol
Organic Acids Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & ElastomersPersonal Care & CosmeticsFood & Nutrition CatalysisPreservation & BiocideFlavoring & AcidulantpH Regulation & Buffering
Description
2-Ethylhexanoic acid (CAS 149-57-5) is a branched-chain C8 carboxylic acid, also known as 2-ethylcaproic acid or 2-EHA. It carries no E-code designation and is identified under EC number 205-743-6. The branched structure distinguishes it from linear octanoic acid and directly influences its solubility and reactivity profile.
In coatings and adhesives, 2-EHA serves as a ligand precursor for metal drier salts, where it coordinates with cobalt, zirconium, or calcium to accelerate oxidative crosslinking of alkyd resins. In personal care formulations it functions as a pH buffer and skin-conditioning agent, while food-grade material is used at trace levels as a flavoring compound.
The acid is available in technical and food-grade qualities, with food applications requiring FCC-compliant material. It is registered under REACH and supplied in bulk liquid format, typically in IBCs or road tankers. Buyers should confirm grade specification against intended application prior to ordering.
In coatings and adhesives, 2-EHA serves as a ligand precursor for metal drier salts, where it coordinates with cobalt, zirconium, or calcium to accelerate oxidative crosslinking of alkyd resins. In personal care formulations it functions as a pH buffer and skin-conditioning agent, while food-grade material is used at trace levels as a flavoring compound.
The acid is available in technical and food-grade qualities, with food applications requiring FCC-compliant material. It is registered under REACH and supplied in bulk liquid format, typically in IBCs or road tankers. Buyers should confirm grade specification against intended application prior to ordering.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -59 °C |
| Boiling Point | 228 °C |
| Density | 0.9031 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | 230 °F |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Color | Clear |
| Odor | Mild odour |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 2 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.425(lit.) |
| pH | 3 (1.4g/l, H2O, 20℃) |
| Log P | 2.7 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Warning GHS08 GHS05 GHS07
H
H303H312H314H315H318H319H360H361H371
P
P203P260P264P270P280P316P317P318P321P363P405P501P264+P265P301+P317P302+P352P304+P340P308+P316P332+P317P337+P317P362+P364P301+P330+P331P302+P361+P354P305+P351+P338P305+P354+P338
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29159080 |
| UN Number | 3265 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
2-Ethyl-hexoic acid2-EHA2-Ethylhexoic acidEthylhexanoic acid2-Ethylcaproic acidα-Ethylcaproic acid
Related Products
Raw Materials
Derivatives
Need a chemical? Get a quote within 24 hours.