Overview
2-Ethylhexanoic acid (CAS 149-57-5 ), also known as 2-EHA, is a branched-chain fatty acid used primarily as a building block for metal salt synthesis and as a ligand in catalyst systems.
Its branched structure makes it commercially valuable for producing metal carboxylates that would otherwise be difficult to formulate with straight-chain acids. In coatings and adhesives, it is reacted with metals.
Metals such as cobalt, zinc, and zirconium are used to produce driers and crosslinking agents that accelerate oxidative cure in alkyd and oil-based systems. Catalyst manufacturers use it to prepare metal 2-ethylhexanoates.
These serve as precursors for polyurethane, silicone, and esterification catalysts. In sealants and elastomers, the resulting metal salts function as adhesion promoters and cure accelerators across a range of polymer systems.
Flavor and fragrance producers use 2-EHA at low concentrations to contribute fatty, waxy top notes in certain formulations. 2-Ethylhexanoic acid is supplied as a clear liquid in drum and IBC quantities.
Bulk tanker supply is available for high-volume industrial buyers. Technical grade is the standard commercial specification, covering the majority of coatings and catalyst applications for industrial users.
High-purity grades are available for catalyst precursor and specialty chemical synthesis where metal content and acid value tolerances are tightly controlled to meet specific manufacturing requirements.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -59 °C |
| Boiling Point | 228 °C |
| Density | 0.9031 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | 230 °F |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Color | Clear |
| Odor | Mild odour |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 2 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.425(lit.) |
| pH | 3 (1.4g/l, H2O, 20℃) |
| Log P | 2.7 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS08 GHS05 GHS07 Hazard Statements H303 May be harmful if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H371 May cause damage to organs Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. 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. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. 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. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+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 | 29159080 |
| UN Number | 3265 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 149-57-5
- EC Number
- 205-743-6
- Mol. Weight
- 144.21
- HS Code
- 29159080
- Category
- Flavors & Fragrances