2-Ethylhexanoic acid, also called 2-EHA, is a commonly used organic compound, mainly to make lipophilic metal by-products that can dissolve in nonionic organic solvents. It is a carboxylic acid with the formula C8H16O2 with a generally high boiling point and mild odor.
2-EHA is a viscous and colorless oil with one carboxylic class found on a C8 carbon chain and is immiscible in water. 2-EHA can be used as a substitute for naphthenic acid in some applications. Industrially, 2-EHA is manufactured using propylene, often generated from fossil fuels and other sources which are renewable. In other words, 2-EHA can be more effectively manufactured than naphthenic acid.
2-EHA produces metallic compounds that undergo stoichiometry in the form of metal acetates. In most cases, 2-EHA derivatives are used in industrial and organic chemical applications. The ethyl hexanoate complexes also serve as catalysts in oxidation reactions and polymerizations (as oil drying agents). As a versatile chemical intermediate, 2-EHAhas multiple applications, including the following.
Automotive
2-Ethylhexanoic acid is used to produce corrosion inhibitors for lubricants and automotive coolants. It also serves as wood preservatives and makes lubricant additives as well as synthetic lubricants. 2-EHA is also used in the production of PVC heat stabilizers, PVB film plasticizers, metal soaps for paint driers, and other chemicals.
Lubricants
2-Ethylhexanoic acid is commonly used in esters in Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) film plasticizers and as a raw material for polyesters applied in synthetic oils. 2-EHA’s metal salts are used to prepare synthetic lubricant additives used in various industrial lubricant applications.
Coatings
2-Ethylhexanoic acid is widely used in coating applications to enhance performance and resistance. It produces alkyd resins that help improve yellowing resistance better than ordinary fatty acids. This monomer is ideal for stoving enamels and 2-component coatings. 2-EHA can also be used in other applications, including the catalyst for polyurethane, wood preservatives, and pharmaceuticals.
Cosmetics
The chemicals in 2-ethylhexanoic acid are reported to have cosmetic use to produce emollients and skin conditioners. It is widely used in hair care products, hand creams, face creams, body lotions, and make-up products like foundation, concealer, and hair care products.
Plastics
2-EHA is also used in manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) stabilizers and Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) plasticizers in the form of metal salts. It reacts with metallic components like manganese and cobalt to produce metallic salt derivatives.
Buy 2-Ethylhexanoic acid from Bisley International
Bisley International has been the leading chemical raw material supplier in the United States and worldwide for over half a century. We provide a wide range of industrial raw materials, including 2-Ethylhexanoic acid. Our high purity 2-EHA (over 99.5%) contains metal salts that serve as corrosion inhibitors in coolants. 2-EHA is also used to make polyol ester which acts as a lubricant for refrigerant appliances.
View our range of Grease & Lubricant Additives Materials Guide to learn more about Bisley’s high purity 2-EHA and other chemical raw materials. You can also contact us for inquiries.
