DEHT

DEHT stands for di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate, a plasticizer used to impart flexibility to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other polymers. It is also marketed under the name DOTP in some contexts. DEHT is considered a non-phthalate plasticizer and has been promoted as a safer alternative to certain legacy phthalates in various applications.

Chemically, DEHT is a diester formed from terephthalic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. It is produced by esterification followed by purification. In practical use, DEHT is a high-boiling, low-volatility plasticizer that remains within the polymer matrix and tends to have good permanence and resistance to extraction compared with some older plasticizers.

Applications of DEHT include flexible PVC films and sheets, wires and cables, consumer films, and medical devices where flexibility and biocompatibility are important. It is commonly chosen as a substitute for DEHP in products subject to regulatory restrictions or consumer safety considerations, though regulatory acceptance varies by jurisdiction and product type.

Safety and regulation: DEHT has been evaluated by health and regulatory agencies as part of broader assessments of plasticizers. It is generally regarded as having a lower acute toxicity and reduced estrogenic potential in comparison with some phthalates, contributing to its position as a substitute in many applications. Regulation tends to be product- and region-specific; manufacturers often cite DEHT as a safer alternative where phthalates are restricted. As with other plasticizers, migration from PVC under heat, time, or solvent exposure is a consideration for consumer exposure.

Environmental aspects: DEHT is not readily biodegradable and can persist in the environment. Waste management and recycling considerations for PVC containing DEHT are similar to those for other plasticizers, with attention to potential leaching during use and disposal.