2-Ethylhexyl stearate

2-Ethylhexyl stearate is an ester produced by reacting 2-ethylhexanol with stearic acid. It is commercially available under trade names including Cetiol 868, Estol 1545, Wickenol 156, and Tegosoft OS. It carries no assigned E-code and is registered under REACH (EC 244-754-0).

In personal care formulations, it functions as an emollient and carrier, reducing skin drag and improving spreadability without a greasy after-feel. In plastics compounding, it acts as an internal plasticizer and processing lubricant, lowering melt viscosity and reducing friction between polymer chains. Metalworking fluids use it as a base lubricant where low volatility and film-forming capacity are required.

The material is supplied as a cosmetic-grade oil meeting REACH registration requirements and is suitable for use in EU-marketed formulations. Procurement is typically available in drums and intermediate bulk containers. Buyers should confirm grade specification and purity certificates directly with the supplier.