2-ethylhexanoic acid

CAS Number
149-57-5
EC Number
205-743-6
Abbreviation
2-EHA

What is 2-ethylhexanoic acid?

2-Ethylhexanoic acid (CAS 149-57-5), also known as 2-EHA, is a branched-chain fatty acid used primarily as a building block for metal salt synthesis and as a ligand in catalyst systems.

Where is 2-ethylhexanoic acid used?

  • Coatings and adhesives: reacted with metals
  • Catalysts: metal 2-ethylhexanoates as precursors for polyurethane, silicone and esterification catalysts
  • Sealants and elastomers: metal salts as adhesion promoters and cure accelerators
  • Flavor and fragrance: fatty, waxy top notes at low concentrations
  • Cobalt, zinc and zirconium produce driers and crosslinking agents that accelerate oxidative cure in alkyd and oil-based systems.

Commercial specifications

  • Drum and IBC quantities
  • Bulk tanker supply
  • Technical grade standard; high-purity grades for catalyst precursor and specialty synthesis with controlled metal content and acid value

Other Names (Synonyms)

Butylethylacetic acid|alpha-Ethylhexanoic acid|alpha-Ethylcaproic acid|3-Heptanecarboxylic acid|2-Ethylhexoic acid|2-Ethylcapronic acid|2-Ethyl-Hexonic acid|2-Ethyl-1-hexanoic acid|2-EHA

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What are the physical properties of 2-ethylhexanoic acid?

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℃

How is 2-ethylhexanoic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More

Danger
GHS08· Health Hazard GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H303 May be harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H315 Causes skin irritation

Precautionary Statements

P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.

Which trade and regulatory codes apply to 2-ethylhexanoic acid?

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
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