sebacates

Sebacates are esters derived from sebacic acid (decanedioic acid) and alcohols, typically forming diesters from sebacic acid and two alcohol molecules. They are produced and used as a family of non-phthalate plasticizers and emollients for polymers and personal-care products. The term encompasses a range of sebacic acid esters with different alcohol moieties, resulting in varying solubility, volatility, and plasticizing strength.

Commercially important sebacates include di(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate (DEHS), diisononyl sebacate (DIS), and diisodecyl sebacate (DIDS). They are obtained by esterification of sebacic acid with the chosen alcohols or by transesterification of existing sebacate esters. Sebacates are high‑molecular‑weight, lipophilic liquids or waxy substances that exhibit low volatility, good compatibility with many polymers, and effective plasticization at low temperatures.

Applications and properties: Sebacates are widely used as plasticizers for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethanes, and other plastics, where they impart flexibility and toughness without excessive extractability. They are favored as non‑phthalate alternatives in applications requiring reduced phthalate content. In cosmetics and personal care, sebacate esters such as diisostearyl sebacate function as emollients and conditioning agents due to their skin-friendly, lubricious nature.

Safety and environment: Sebacates are generally regarded as having low acute toxicity and are used as phthalate-free plasticizers in many formulations. They are subject to standard chemical safety assessments and regulatory reviews, with attention to impurities, biodegradability, and end‑use exposure.