The main outlet for 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH) is the production of phthalate plasticisers, such as di-octyl phthalate (DOP), which are used in the manufacture of PVC. The next largest outlet for 2-EH is for the manufacture of the acrylate esters which are used in adhesives and surface-coating materials such as acrylic paints, in printing inks and as impregnating agents.
An issue for 2-EH producers is that DOP has been dogged by health hazard and environmental concerns, and phthalates in general are under pressure. On the positive side, there is increasing demand for other derivatives of 2-EH, in particular 2-ethylhexyl acrylate.
The industrial production of 2-ethylhexanol is by a three-step process involving the aldol self-condensation of n-butyraldehyde followed by dehydration and hydrogenation. The n-butyraldehyde is mainly obtained from propylene by the oxo process.
2-Ethylhexanol is a colourless liquid with a characteristic odour and reacts violently with strong oxidants. It is considered to be a moderate fire hazard.
2-Ethylhexanol
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2-Ethylhexanol
Uses and Outlook
The main outlet for 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH) is the production of phthalate plasticisers such as di-octyl phthalate (DOP). DOP is produced by combining oxo alcohols with phthalic anhydride. Plasticisers are used in the manufacture of PVC, so markets are linked to PVC, although DOP has also been losing market share to other plasticisers.
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2-Ethylhexanol
Process Technologies
The industrial production of 2-ethylhexanol is by a three-step process involving the aldol self-condensation of n-butyraldehyde followed by dehydration and hydrogenation. The n-butyraldehyde was originally obtained from acetaldehyde via ethylene but this has been superseded by the oxo process from propylene.
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