Diethyl Phthalate, Ethyl Phthalate, DEP, 84-66-2
DIETHYL PHTHALATE (DEP)
Phthalic Acid Diethyl Ester
CAS: 84-66-2
| Product Name |
Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) |
| CAS Number |
84-66-2 |
| EC Number |
201-550-6 |
| Chemical Class |
Phthalate Ester (Low Molecular Weight Plasticizer) |
| Synonyms |
Diethyl Phthalate, DEP, Phthalic Acid Diethyl Ester, Benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid diethyl ester, Ethyl Phthalate, Anozol, Diethyl o-phthalate |
ITEM 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND NOMENCLATURE
| Parameter |
Description |
| Chemical Name |
Diethyl Phthalate |
| IUPAC Name |
1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid diethyl ester |
| Chemical Formula |
C₁₂H₁₄O₄ |
| Molecular Weight |
222.24 g/mol |
| CAS Number |
84-66-2 |
| EC Number |
201-550-6 |
| Synonyms |
Diethyl Phthalate, DEP, Phthalic Acid Diethyl Ester, Benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid diethyl ester, Ethyl Phthalate, Anozol, Diethyl o-phthalate |
| HS Code |
2917.34.00.00.00 |
| REACH Status |
Registered and compliant |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) is a low molecular weight phthalate ester produced by the esterification of phthalic anhydride with ethanol in the presence of a concentrated sulfuric acid catalyst. It is a colorless, practically odorless, oily liquid with a slightly aromatic odor. DEP is widely used as a plasticizer, solvent, and fixative in cosmetics, personal care products, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. Its low toxicity and excellent solvency make it a versatile chemical intermediate.
ITEM 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND PRODUCTION
| Parameter |
Description |
| Chemical Family |
Phthalate Ester |
| Structure |
Diester of phthalic acid and ethanol |
| Functional Groups |
Two ester groups (-COO-) |
| Molecular Structure |
Benzene ring with two ethyl ester groups at ortho positions |
| SMILES |
CCOC(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1C(=O)OCC |
| InChI Key |
FLKPEMZONWLCSK-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Production Process |
Esterification of phthalic anhydride with ethanol |
| Catalyst |
Concentrated sulfuric acid |
| Grade Types |
Technical grade, Cosmetic grade, Pharmaceutical grade |
Structural Formula:
text
O
||
C - O-CH₂-CH₃
/ \
/ \
\ /
\ /
C - O-CH₂-CH₃
||
O
Description: Diethyl Phthalate is produced by the reaction of phthalic anhydride with ethanol using concentrated sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The reaction yields a diester with a benzene ring substituted with two ethyl ester groups at the ortho positions. The product is available in various grades (technical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical) with differing purity requirements.
ITEM 3: PHYSICAL APPEARANCE AND FORM
| Parameter |
Specification |
Test Method |
| Appearance |
Clear, colorless liquid |
Visual Inspection |
| Physical Form |
Liquid (oily) |
Visual Inspection |
| Color |
Practically colorless |
Visual Inspection |
| Odor |
Slight aromatic, practically odorless |
Organoleptic |
| Taste |
Bitter, unpleasant |
Organoleptic |
| Clarity |
Clear, free from sediment |
Visual Inspection |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate is a clear, colorless, practically odorless, oily liquid with a slightly aromatic odor. It has a bitter, unpleasant taste. The product is supplied in high purity and contains no visible sediment or turbidity. It is available in technical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical grades with varying purity specifications.
ITEM 4: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
| Property |
Specification |
Typical Value |
Test Method |
| Density (20°C) |
1.11 – 1.13 g/cm³ |
1.12 g/cm³ |
ASTM D4052 |
| Density (25°C) |
1.10 – 1.12 g/cm³ |
1.118 g/cm³ |
ASTM D4052 |
| Refractive Index (20°C) |
1.500 – 1.505 |
1.502 |
ASTM D1218 |
| Viscosity (25°C) |
10 – 12 cP |
11.0 cP |
– |
| Surface Tension |
~36 dyn/cm |
– |
– |
| Dielectric Constant |
~6.0 |
– |
– |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate is a slightly viscous liquid with a density of approximately 1.12 g/cm³, making it denser than water. Its refractive index is around 1.502. These properties make it easy to handle and incorporate into various formulations.
ITEM 5: THERMAL PROPERTIES
| Property |
Specification / Value |
Test Method |
| Melting Point |
-3 °C |
DSC |
| Freezing Point |
-3 °C |
DSC |
| Boiling Point |
296 – 298 °C |
– |
| Boiling Point (760 mmHg) |
296 °C |
– |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) |
150 – 160 °C |
ASTM D93 |
| Auto-ignition Temperature |
~450 °C |
– |
| Vapor Pressure (20°C) |
< 0.01 mmHg |
– |
| Refractive Index |
1.502 (20°C) |
– |
| Specific Heat |
~1.9 J/g·K |
– |
| Thermal Conductivity |
~0.15 W/m·K |
– |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate has a low melting point of -3°C and remains liquid over a wide temperature range. Its boiling point is 296-298°C, indicating low volatility. The flash point is 150-160°C, making it a combustible liquid with low flammability risk. The low vapor pressure (<0.01 mmHg) contributes to its stability and low odor.
ITEM 6: SOLUBILITY AND MISCIBILITY
| Solvent / Medium |
Solubility / Miscibility |
| Water |
Slightly soluble (~0.1 g/100 mL) |
| Ethanol (Alcohol) |
Completely miscible |
| Ether |
Completely miscible |
| Acetone |
Completely miscible |
| Benzene |
Completely miscible |
| Toluene |
Completely miscible |
| Chloroform |
Completely miscible |
| Methanol |
Completely miscible |
| Mineral Oils |
Completely miscible |
| Vegetable Oils |
Completely miscible |
| Cellulose Acetate |
High compatibility |
| PVC |
High compatibility |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate is slightly soluble in water (approximately 0.1 g/100 mL) but completely miscible with most organic solvents including ethanol, ether, acetone, benzene, toluene, chloroform, methanol, mineral oils, and vegetable oils. It shows high compatibility with cellulose acetate, PVC, and other polymers, making it effective as a plasticizer and solvent.
ITEM 7: PURITY AND ANALYTICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter |
Technical Grade |
Cosmetic Grade |
Test Method |
| Purity (GC) |
≥ 98.0% |
≥ 99.0% |
GC |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) |
≤ 0.10 |
≤ 0.05 |
Titration |
| Water Content (Karl Fischer) |
≤ 0.20% |
≤ 0.10% |
Karl Fischer |
| Color (APHA) |
≤ 30 |
≤ 20 |
ASTM D1209 |
| Density (20°C) |
1.11 – 1.13 g/cm³ |
1.11 – 1.13 g/cm³ |
ASTM D4052 |
| Refractive Index (20°C) |
1.500 – 1.505 |
1.500 – 1.505 |
ASTM D1218 |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) |
≤ 10 ppm |
≤ 5 ppm |
ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) |
≤ 3 ppm |
≤ 1 ppm |
ICP-MS |
| Appearance |
Clear liquid |
Clear liquid |
Visual |
| Odor |
Slight odor |
Practically odorless |
Organoleptic |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate is available in different grades. Technical grade is suitable for industrial applications, while cosmetic and pharmaceutical grades require higher purity, lower acid value, and lower heavy metal content. The cosmetic grade is practically odorless and meets strict quality specifications for use in personal care products.
ITEM 8: COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Fragrances / Perfumes |
Fixative, extends fragrance longevity |
| Nail Polishes |
Solvent, film former, plasticizer |
| Hair Sprays |
Plasticizer, formulation stabilizer |
| Personal Care Products |
Solvent, carrier, viscosity regulator |
| Deodorants |
Solvent, carrier, fixative |
| Lotions and Creams |
Solvent, viscosity regulator |
| Makeup Products |
Resin compatibilizer, viscosity regulator |
| Shaving Products |
Solvent, carrier |
| Aftershaves |
Solvent, carrier |
| Sunscreen Formulations |
Solvent, carrier |
| Body Sprays |
Fixative, carrier |
| Toothpastes |
Solvent, carrier (limited) |
Usage Concentrations:
| Application |
Typical Concentration |
| Perfumes / Fragrances |
5 – 25% |
| Nail Polishes |
5 – 15% |
| Hair Sprays |
1 – 5% |
| Personal Care Products |
1 – 5% |
| Deodorants |
1 – 3% |
Description: In cosmetics and personal care, DEP is valued as a fixative, solvent, plasticizer, and carrier. As a fixative in perfumes, it helps extend fragrance longevity by slowing the evaporation of volatile components. In nail polishes, it acts as a plasticizer and film former, providing flexibility and durability. It is widely used in hair sprays, lotions, deodorants, and makeup products.
ITEM 9: PLASTIC AND POLYMER APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| PVC Production |
Plasticizer for flexible PVC |
| Cellulose Acetate |
Plasticizer and compatibilizer |
| Cellulose Nitrate |
Plasticizer |
| Polystyrene (PS) |
Plasticizer, processing aid |
| Polyvinyl Acetate (PVAc) |
Plasticizer |
| Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) |
Plasticizer, processing aid |
| Automotive Parts |
Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
| Toothbrushes |
Plasticizer (cellulose acetate handles) |
| Food Packaging |
Plasticizer (food contact approved) |
| Medical Tubing |
Plasticizer (limited, medical grade) |
| Toys |
Plasticizer (low migration applications) |
| Synthetic Resins |
Plasticizer, compatibilizer |
| Rubber and Elastomers |
Softener, viscosity regulator |
Usage Levels:
| Application |
Typical Concentration |
| PVC (Flexible) |
10 – 30% |
| Cellulose Acetate |
10 – 25% |
| Polystyrene |
5 – 15% |
| Polymethyl Methacrylate |
5 – 15% |
Description: In the plastics industry, DEP is used as a plasticizer for PVC, cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, and other polymers. It imparts flexibility, durability, and processability to polymer formulations. Its relatively low molecular weight and good compatibility with polar polymers make it suitable for applications where low volatility is not a critical requirement.
ITEM 10: PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Tablet Coatings |
Plasticizer for film coatings |
| Enteric Coatings |
Plasticizer, improves flexibility |
| Capsule Production |
Reduces brittleness in gelatin capsules |
| Controlled Release Systems |
Regulates active ingredient release rate |
| Pharmaceutical Solvents |
Solvent and stabilizer |
| Excipient |
Formulation stabilizer |
| Granules and Pellets |
Coating plasticizer |
| Dragees |
Coating plasticizer |
| Oral Formulations |
Excipient |
| Topical Formulations |
Solvent, carrier |
Usage Concentrations:
| Application |
Typical Concentration |
| Tablet Film Coatings |
10 – 30% of coating formulation |
| Enteric Coatings |
10 – 25% of coating formulation |
| Capsule Formulations |
1 – 5% |
Description: In pharmaceutical applications, DEP is used as a plasticizer in tablet coatings, enteric coatings, and capsule production. It improves the flexibility and durability of film coatings, reducing brittleness and cracking. In controlled release systems, it can help regulate the release rate of active ingredients. Pharmaceutical-grade DEP meets strict purity specifications.
ITEM 11: DETERGENT AND CLEANING APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Liquid Detergents |
Solvent and formulation stabilizer |
| Surface Cleaners |
Viscosity regulator, solvent |
| Hygiene Products |
Fragrance fixative, solvent |
| Industrial Cleaners |
Resin compatibilizer, solvent |
| Air Fresheners |
Fragrance fixative, carrier |
| Room Sprays |
Fragrance fixative, carrier |
| Toilet Cleaners |
Fragrance fixative, solvent |
| Multi-purpose Cleaners |
Solvent, viscosity regulator |
Description: In detergents and cleaning products, DEP is used as a solvent, formulation stabilizer, and fragrance fixative. It helps maintain product stability, improve viscosity, and extend fragrance longevity in scented cleaning products. Its excellent solvency makes it suitable for both household and industrial cleaning formulations.
ITEM 12: INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNICAL APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Ink Formulations |
Carrier solvent, viscosity regulator |
| Coatings |
Plasticizer and resin compatibilizer |
| Adhesive Systems |
Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
| Lubricant Additives |
Friction reducer, processing aid |
| Solvent |
Dissolves organic compounds |
| Gas Chromatography |
Stationary phase liquid |
| Epoxy Resins |
Compatibilizer, viscosity regulator |
| Varnishes |
Resin compatibilizer, film flexibility |
| Printing Inks |
Carrier solvent, viscosity regulator |
Description: In industrial applications, DEP is used as a solvent, plasticizer, and compatibilizer in inks, coatings, adhesives, and epoxy resins. Its excellent solvency and compatibility with various resins make it valuable in formulating industrial products. It is also used as a stationary phase liquid in gas chromatography.
ITEM 13: SECTOR COMPATIBILITY MATRIX
| Industry |
Suitability |
Application |
Notes |
| Cosmetics & Personal Care |
High |
Perfume fixative, nail polish, hair sprays |
Widespread use |
| Plastics & Polymers |
High |
PVC, cellulose acetate, polystyrene plasticizer |
Common use |
| Pharmaceuticals |
High (Pharma Grade) |
Tablet coatings, capsule plasticizer |
Requires high purity |
| Detergents & Cleaning |
High |
Solvent, stabilizer, fragrance fixative |
Common use |
| Paints & Coatings |
High |
Resin compatibilizer, viscosity regulator |
Industrial use |
| Adhesives |
High |
Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
Industrial use |
| Agriculture |
Limited |
Pesticide formulations (solvent) |
Limited, regulated |
| Food Packaging |
Limited |
Plasticizer (food contact approved) |
Restricted migration |
| Toys |
Limited |
Plasticizer (low migration applications) |
Restricted use |
| Medical Devices |
Limited |
Tubing (medical grade) |
Restricted use |
ITEM 14: COSMETIC APPLICATIONS - DETAILED
| Application |
Function |
Example Products |
| Fragrances |
Fixative, extends fragrance longevity |
Eau de Parfum, Cologne |
| Nail Polishes |
Solvent, film former, plasticizer |
Nail polish, top coat |
| Hair Sprays |
Plasticizer, formulation stabilizer |
Hair spray, styling products |
| Personal Care Products |
Solvent, carrier, viscosity regulator |
Deodorant, lotion, cream |
| Makeup |
Resin compatibilizer, viscosity regulator |
Foundation, BB cream, makeup |
| Shaving Products |
Solvent, carrier |
Shaving creams, foams |
| Aftershaves |
Solvent, carrier |
Aftershave lotions |
| Body Sprays |
Fixative, carrier |
Body sprays, fragrances |
ITEM 15: DETERGENT & CLEANING APPLICATIONS - DETAILED
| Application |
Function |
Example Products |
| Liquid Detergents |
Solvent, formulation stabilizer |
Laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids |
| Surface Cleaners |
Viscosity regulator, solvent |
All-purpose surface cleaners |
| Hygiene Products |
Fragrance fixative, solvent |
Toilet cleaners, room sprays |
| Industrial Cleaners |
Resin compatibilizer, solvent |
Factory cleaners, heavy-duty degreasers |
| Air Fresheners |
Fragrance fixative, carrier |
Room air fresheners, deodorant sprays |
ITEM 16: PLASTIC & POLYMER APPLICATIONS - DETAILED
| Application |
Function |
Example Products |
| PVC Production |
Plasticizer, flexibility and durability |
Cable coatings, pipes, flooring |
| Cellulose Derivatives |
Solvent and compatibilizer |
Cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate |
| Synthetic Resins |
Plasticizer, low migration additive |
Polyvinyl acetate, polystyrene, PMMA |
| Packaging Materials |
Flexibility and transparency enhancer |
Food packaging films, coatings |
| Rubber and Elastomers |
Softener, viscosity regulator |
Nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber |
ITEM 17: PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS - DETAILED
| Application |
Function |
Example Products |
| Tablet Coatings |
Plasticizer, enhances coating flexibility |
Film-coated tablets, enteric coatings |
| Capsule Production |
Reduces brittleness in gelatin capsules |
Hard and soft capsules |
| Controlled Release Systems |
Regulates active ingredient release rate |
Extended-release tablets |
| Pharmaceutical Solvents |
Solvent and stabilizer |
Syrups, liquid formulations |
| Excipient |
Enhances formulation stability |
Granules, dragees, coated drugs |
ITEM 18: COMPARISON OF PHTHALATES
| Property |
DMP (Dimethyl) |
DEP (Diethyl) |
DBP (Dibutyl) |
DEHP/DOP (Diethylhexyl) |
DIDP (Diisodecyl) |
| Chemical Formula |
C₁₀H₁₀O₄ |
C₁₂H₁₄O₄ |
C₁₆H₂₂O₄ |
C₂₄H₃₈O₄ |
C₂₈H₄₆O₄ |
| Molecular Weight |
~194 g/mol |
~222 g/mol |
~278 g/mol |
~390 g/mol |
~446 g/mol |
| Boiling Point |
~282 °C |
~298 °C |
~340 °C |
~385 °C |
>400 °C |
| Volatility |
High |
Medium |
Low |
Very low |
Very low |
| Water Solubility |
Partially |
Slightly |
Insoluble |
Insoluble |
Insoluble |
| Main Uses |
Insect repellent, specialty polymers |
Cosmetics, perfume, cellulose acetate |
PVC, adhesives, rubber |
PVC, vinyl, cable coatings |
Cables, automotive, durable PVC |
| Toxicological Status |
Relatively low |
Low |
Endocrine disruptor risk |
Environmental concerns, restricted |
Safer, low migration |
| Global Usage Share |
~8% |
~12% |
~15% |
~40% |
~25% |
ITEM 19: SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter |
Description |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50) |
~1,500 – 3,000 mg/kg (rat) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity |
Low |
| Skin Irritation |
Non-irritating |
| Eye Irritation |
Mild irritant |
| Skin Sensitization |
Non-sensitizing |
| Inhalation |
May cause respiratory irritation |
| Carcinogenicity |
Not classified |
| Mutagenicity |
Not classified |
| Reproductive Toxicity |
Not classified (low concern) |
| Endocrine Disruption |
Low concern (unlike higher phthalates) |
| FDA Status |
Approved for use |
| REACH Status |
Registered |
Description: Diethyl Phthalate has relatively low acute toxicity (LD50 ~1,500-3,000 mg/kg). It is non-irritating to the skin and non-sensitizing. Unlike higher molecular weight phthalates (DBP, DEHP), DEP is not classified as an endocrine disruptor and has a lower toxicological concern profile. It is approved for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food contact applications.
ITEM 20: HANDLING, STORAGE, AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter |
Description |
| Storage Temperature |
2 – 8°C (recommended for long-term storage) |
| Storage Conditions |
Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Light |
Protect from direct sunlight |
| Materials to Avoid |
Strong oxidizers, acids, bases |
| Packaging Materials |
HDPE, stainless steel, glass |
| Shelf Life |
24 months (unopened, recommended conditions) |
| Signs of Degradation |
Color darkening, acidity increase, odor change |
| Incompatibilities |
Strong oxidizers, strong acids, strong bases |
PACKAGING INFORMATION
| Parameter |
Description |
| Standard Packaging |
200L HDPE drum |
| Bulk Packaging |
1000L IBC |
| Small Packaging |
25L jerrycan, 1L laboratory bottle |
| Packaging Materials |
HDPE, stainless steel, glass |
| Labeling |
Product code, batch number, net weight, safety warnings |
QUALITY AND CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
| Certificate / Standard |
Status |
| ISO 9001:2015 |
Certified manufacturing sites |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) |
Registered and compliant |
| FDA 21 CFR |
Approved for use |
| EU Cosmetics Regulation |
Permitted |
| USP/EP |
Pharmaceutical grade available |
Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet provides typical values for reference purposes only. All values are based on standard laboratory measurements and do not constitute a binding specification. For binding properties, please request the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each specific batch. The user is solely responsible for determining product suitability for their intended application and for compliance with all applicable regulations. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be requested from the supplier before use.
