2etüülheksanooli

2-etüülheksanool, also known as 2-ethylhexanol or isooctanol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8H18O. It is a branched-chain alcohol, a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. 2-etüülheksanool is a commercially important chemical produced primarily through the oxo process, which involves the hydroformylation of propylene to produce butyraldehyde, followed by aldol condensation and hydrogenation.

The primary application of 2-etüülheksanool is as a precursor in the production of plasticizers. It is reacted with phthalic anhydride to form di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), one of the most widely used plasticizers, particularly in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). DEHP is employed to increase the flexibility, transparency, and durability of PVC products such as cables, flooring, and medical devices. 2-etüülheksanool is also used to produce other plasticizers, including di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DOA) and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHTP).

Beyond plasticizers, 2-etüülheksanool finds use as a solvent for various resins, coatings, and inks. It also serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, including lubricants, surfactants, and certain types of herbicides. Due to its properties, it is a component in some defoamers and flotation agents. While essential for many industrial applications, concerns have been raised regarding the potential environmental and health impacts of DEHP, leading to increased research into alternative plasticizers.