2-Hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone

2-Hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone (CAS 1843-05-6) is an organic UV absorber commercially known as UV-531, Octabenzone, Benzophenone-12, and CHIMASSORB 81. It belongs to the benzophenone class of light stabilizers and carries no assigned E-code, as its primary applications are industrial rather than food-grade.

In polymer and coating formulations, UV-531 absorbs UV radiation in the 270–380 nm range and converts it to harmless heat energy, preventing photodegradation of substrates such as polyolefins, PVC, and polyurethane coatings. In personal care applications, it functions as a skin protectant by filtering UV exposure at the surface level, and is also used in printing inks to protect colorants from fading.

UV-531 is supplied as a solid and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Formulators should note its inclusion on cosmetic ingredient inventories under Benzophenone-12. Standard commercial packaging applies; buyers should confirm grade specifications and compliance documentation directly with the supplier.