Description
Dioctyl phthalate purified is a high-purity grade of the plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP), also known as bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. It is typically supplied as a clear, colorless or slightly yellowish oily liquid with assay ≥99.5% and very low impurity/moisture content.
Chemical properties
Chemical name: Dioctyl phthalate
Synonyms: Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, DEHP, DOP.
CAS number: 117-81-7 (also 117-84-0 for di-n-octyl phthalate).
Molecular formula: C₂₄H₃₈O₄.
Molecular weight: ~390.54 g/mol.
Appearance: Clear, colorless to light yellow oily liquid.
Density: 0.985–0.988 g/mL at 20–25 °C.
Boiling point: 384 °C.
Melting point: −50 °C.
Refractive index: 1.483–1.488 at 20–27 °C.
Acid value: ≤0.01% as phthalic acid.
Moisture content: ≤0.1%.
Applications
Used as a primary plasticizer in the manufacture of flexible PVC products, resins, elastomers, and rubber.
Often selected for high-purity/plasticizer-sensitive applications including laboratory, medical device, and analytical reagent use where low UV absorbance and minimal impurities are necessary.
Purification notes
Highly purified DOP may be further processed to reduce levels of phthalide and UV-absorbing impurities, meeting ISO standards for medical applications.
Typical methods involve filtration or adsorption (activated carbon, silica gel, diatomaceous earth) to remove color bodies and phthalide by-products, resulting in DOP with UV absorbance <0.1 at 230 nm.
Safety and handling
Store in tightly closed containers at room temperature, away from heat and strong oxidizers.
Handle with appropriate PPE due to potential health and environmental risks; not for food, drug or cosmetic use.