Solvents
REACH
1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone
CAS Number
2687-91-4
EC Number
220-250-6
Abbreviation
NEP
What is 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone?
1-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone (CAS 2687-91-4), commonly known as NEP, is a high-purity pyrrolidone solvent.
Where is 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone used?
- Plastics and polymer manufacturing: dissolves engineering resins and specialty polymers where stronger solvents would degrade substrate integrity
- Personal care: humectant and carrier in leave-on and rinse-off products such as hair treatments and skin serums, enhancing active ingredient penetration
- Coatings: UV-stabilizing function in formulations for outdoor applications
- Specialty chemical synthesis: reaction solvent where low volatility and thermal stability are procurement priorities
Good to know: Buyers sourcing for personal care applications should confirm compliance with relevant regional cosmetic ingredient regulations before formulation.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 99% or above
- Clear liquid in drum and IBC quantities
- Bulk tanker options for larger industrial volumes
- High-purity technical and cosmetic grades
Other Names (Synonyms)
Ethyl pyrrolidone (nep)|n-ethyl pyrrolidone|1-ethylpyrrolidin-2-one|n-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone|NEP|E0358
What are the physical properties of 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone?
Melting Point 86-88 °C
Boiling Point 222 °C
Density 0.992 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Flash Point 169 °F
Appearance clear liquid
Color Clear
Form Liquid
Water Solubility 1000g/L at 23℃
Vapor Pressure 18Pa at 20℃
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.465(lit.)
pH 8-9 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P -0.2 at 20℃
How is 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS08· Health Hazard GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H227 Combustible liquid
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H315 Causes skin irritation
H318 Causes serious eye damage
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to 1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone?
HS Code 29337900
UN Number 1993
Storage Class 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3
toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 1