1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone

CAS: 2687-91-4

Overview

1-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone ( CAS 2687-91-4 ), commonly known as NEP, is a high-purity pyrrolidone solvent used across polymer processing and personal care formulation. It functions as a selective solvent and humectant, valued for its solvating strength and skin-compatible profile.

In plastics and polymer manufacturing, NEP dissolves engineering resins and specialty polymers where stronger solvents would degrade substrate integrity. Personal care formulators incorporate it into leave-on and rinse-off products.

These applications include hair treatments and skin serums where it acts as a humectant and carrier that enhances active ingredient penetration. Its UV-stabilizing function supports its use in coating formulations designed for outdoor applications.

NEP also serves as a reaction solvent in specialty chemical synthesis where low volatility and thermal stability are procurement priorities. It is supplied as a clear liquid in drum and IBC quantities for industrial use.

Bulk tanker options are available for larger industrial volumes to ensure consistent supply chains. Standard commercial grades include high-purity technical and cosmetic-grade specifications for various manufacturing needs.

Purity levels are typically at 99% or above to meet rigorous industrial requirements. Buyers sourcing for personal care applications should confirm compliance with relevant regional cosmetic ingredient regulations before formulation.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	86-88 °C
Boiling Point	222 °C
Density	0.992 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Flash Point	169 °F
Appearance	clear liquid
Color	Clear
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	1000g/L at 23℃
Vapor Pressure	18Pa at 20℃
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.465(lit.)
pH	8-9 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P	-0.2 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS08 GHS05 GHS07 Hazard Statements H227 Combustible liquid H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. 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. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P403 Store in a well-ventilated place. 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. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. 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. 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	29337900
UN Number	1993
Storage Class	6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Plastics & Polymers Personal Care & Cosmetics