2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol

2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol (CAS 94-96-2), also known as Rutgers 612 and Repellent 612, is a diol solvent and humectant used across personal care, agricultural, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It functions primarily as a preservative booster and carrier solvent.

In personal care formulations, it acts as a multifunctional preservative booster that enhances the efficacy of primary preservative systems in lotions, creams, and rinse-off products. This versatility makes it a staple for cosmetic chemists.

Agricultural formulators use it as a carrier solvent to improve the solubility and delivery of active ingredients in crop protection products. It ensures that active components remain stable and effective during application in the field.

In insect repellent products, it serves as a recognized active ingredient effective against mosquitoes and other biting insects. It is often combined with DEET or used as a standalone repellent in various consumer formulations.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers also incorporate it as a solvent and humectant in topical preparations where controlled moisture retention is required. It ensures ingredient compatibility and maintains the desired texture of medicinal creams.

2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol is supplied as a clear, low-viscosity liquid in drum and IBC quantities. Technical grade is the standard commercial offering, suitable for most agricultural and industrial applications requiring high-volume supply.

Higher-purity grades meeting pharmaceutical or cosmetic specifications are available for regulated end-use markets. These grades ensure compliance with strict industry requirements for safety and performance in sensitive applications.