Diethyltoluamide

CAS: 134-62-3

Overview

Diethyltoluamide ( CAS 134-62-3 ), widely recognized by its abbreviation DEET, is the benchmark active ingredient in insect and arthropod repellent formulations. It acts by disrupting the olfactory receptors of insects, preventing them from locating a host.

This mechanism makes it the reference standard against which other repellent actives are measured. It is the primary active in consumer and professional-grade repellent products including sprays, lotions, creams, and impregnated wipes.

Concentrations typically range from 5% to 100% depending on protection duration and target market. In military and expedition-grade formulations, high-concentration products are specified for extended field use against mosquitoes and ticks.

Personal care manufacturers incorporate it into pump sprays and roll-ons sold through pharmacy and outdoor retail channels. It is also used to treat fabrics and gear in combination repellent systems for outdoor gear.

While fabric-specific actives such as permethrin are common, this material remains a versatile choice for many applications. It is supplied as a clear to pale yellow liquid in bulk and drummed quantities for industrial use.

Technical-grade is the standard commercial specification, with purity levels typically at 95–99%. Some suppliers offer pharmaceutical or cosmetic-grade material to support regulated consumer product registration requirements.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-45 °C
Boiling Point	160 °C @ Press: 19 Torr
Density	0.996 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point	>230 °F
Appearance	Colorless to Amberlike Liquid
Color	Clear
Odor	mild bland odor
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	NEGLIGIBLE
Vapor Pressure	<0.01 mm Hg ( 25 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.523(lit.)

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H320 Causes eye irritation H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness H402 Harmful to aquatic life H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29242995
Storage Class	10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)	2

Other Names

Industries

Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Personal Care & Cosmetics