Diethyl phthalate
Description
Diethyl phthalate (CAS 84-66-2), commonly abbreviated as DEP, is a phthalate ester plasticizer and solvent used across cosmetics, plastics, and specialty coatings. It functions primarily to impart flexibility to polymer matrices.
This chemical is utilized to dissolve or carry active ingredients in formulated products. In personal care and cosmetics, DEP is used as a fixative and solvent in fragrance formulations, helping extend scent longevity.
It also improves spreadability in lotions and sprays. Plastics processors incorporate it as a plasticizer in cellulose-based polymers, particularly cellulose acetate, to produce flexible films, tool handles, and packaging materials.
In printing inks and coatings, DEP acts as a solvent carrier that controls viscosity and aids film formation during application. It also functions as a cross-linking agent and stabilizer in certain specialty polymer systems.
These systems often require UV resistance and processing consistency. Diethyl phthalate is supplied as a clear, low-viscosity liquid in drum and IBC quantities, with bulk tanker options available for high-volume procurement.
Standard commercial grades include technical grade and cosmetic/fragrance grade, with the latter meeting purity requirements for personal care applications. Specifications are typically aligned with industry standards.
These include pharmacopeial standards such as BP and Ph.Eur. where cosmetic or pharmaceutical use demands documented quality. Our supply chain ensures consistent availability for industrial and specialty manufacturing needs.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -40.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 298 °C |
| Density | 1.120 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | >230 °F |
| Appearance | colourless oily liquid |
| Color | APHA: ≤15 |
| Odor | water-wh. oily liq., odorless, bitter taste |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 1 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 1 mm Hg ( 100 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.502(lit.) |
| pH | 7-8 (20°C in H2O) |
| Log P | 2.2 at 41℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29173400 |
| UN Number | 3082 |
| ADR Class | 9 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 10 - Combustible liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Documentation
Other Names
o-Benzenedicarboxylic acid diethyl ester|Ethyl phthalate|Diethyl o-phthalate|Diethyl ester of phthalic acid|diethyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate|Diethyl 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate|benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid diethyl ester|1,2-Diethyl phthalate|DEP
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