2-Ethylhexanol has one primary hydroxyl group. It is a colorless liquid. 2- Ethylhexanol is widely used in the production of dioctyl phthalate (vinyl applications), acrylates, 2-ethylhexyl nitrate, lubrication oil additives, mining chemicals, special plasticizers, herbicides and ester oils (non-vinyl application areas).
Manufacturing process:
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from acetaldehyde via ethylene but this has been superseded by the oxo process from propylene.
1. Feedstock: For the manufacture of herbicides, extractants, ethoxylates
2. Solvent: Low-volatility solvent (e. g. for resins, waxes, animal fats,
vegetable oils and petroleum derivatives)
3. Plasticiser: An all-purpose plasticizer for PVC and vinyl chloride
copolymers