2-Ethylhexanol

1Identification

Name

2-Ethylhexanol

IUPAC name

2-ethylhexan-1-ol

CAS number

104-76-7

EC number

203-234-3

Molecular formula

C8H18O

Molecular weight

130.23 g/mol

InChIKey

YIWUKEYIRIRTPP-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CCCCC(CC)CO

PubChem CID

7720

Synonyms

2-Ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-Ethylhexanol, 2-Ethylhexyl alcohol, 1-Hexanol, 2-ethyl-, Ethylhexanol, 2-ETHYL HEXANOL, 2-Aethylhexanol, Alcohol, 2-ethylhexyl, RefChem:471944, xi-2-Ethyl-1-hexanol, Docusate Sodium Impurity 1, 2-Aethylhexanol [German], 2-Ethyl-hexan-1-ol, Ethylhexanol, 2-

Recommended uses

• Used as a plasticizer, defoaming agent, wetting agent, solvent (nitrocellulose, paints, lacquers, and baking finishes), and textile finishing compound; Also used in inks, rubber, paper, lubricants, photography, and dry cleaning; [Hawley]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Pulp and Paper Processing [Category: Industry] Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint] Dry Cleaning [Category: Clean] Photographic Processing [Category: Other] Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing) [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• USE A sensitive method for the extraction and determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using alcoholic-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (AA-DLLME) and HPLC was developed... The effective parameters (type and volume of extraction and dispersive solvents, amount of salt and stirring time) on the extraction recovery were studied and optimized utilizing factorial design (FD) and central composite design (CCD). The best recovery was achieved by FD using 2-ethyl-1-hexanol as the extraction solvent and methanol as the dispersive solvent...
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Processing aids not otherwise specified Monomers Surfactant (surface active agent) Fuel agents Fuel Solvent Dispersing agent CBI Chain transfer agent Adhesion/cohesion promoter Intermediate Dye Plasticizer Cleaning agent Filler Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Corrosion inhibitor Emulsifier
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Fuel Monomers Chain transfer agent Solvent Dispersing agent Dye Adhesion/cohesion promoter Intermediate Emulsifier Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Plasticizer
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Fragrance Ingredients · Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENTFood Additives -> ADJUVANT -> JECFA Functional Classes · Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index · METABOLITE-DEHPS

Description

• 2-ethyl hexanol appears as a dark brown liquid with an aromatic odor. Insoluble in water and less dense than water. Flash point between 140 - 175 °F. Contact may irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• 2-ethylhexan-1-ol is a primary alcohol that is hexan-1-ol substituted by an ethyl group at position 2. It has a role as a volatile oil component and a plant metabolite.
  ChEBI
• 2-ethylhexanol has been reported in Camellia sinensis, Alpinia chinensis, and other organisms with data available.
  LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Warning

Pictograms

GHS07

Classification source

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

5 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 2 - Materials that must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures before ignition can occur. Materials would not under normal conditions form hazardous atmospheres with air, but under high ambient temperatures or under moderate heating could release vapor in sufficient quantities to produce hazardous atmospheres with air.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Anesthesia, nausea, headache, dizziness; mildly irritating to skin and eyes. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals

Fire hazards

• This chemical is combustible. (NTP, 1992)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Combustible. Above 73 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; Inhalation of high concentrations may cause CNS effects; [ICSC] An irritant; May cause severe injury to eyes; Effects in high-dose animal studies include degenerative changes to brain; [MSDSonline]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Symptoms of exposure

• Cough. Dizziness. Headache. Sore throat. Weakness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Dry skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Use water spray to cool unopened containers.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: carbon oxides.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 131 [Flammable Liquids - Toxic]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary. FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contain spillage, and then collects with an electrically protected vacuum cleaner or by wet-brushing and place in container for disposal according to local regulation ... Keep in sutable, closed containers for disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Separated from strong oxidants and strong bases. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Ventilation along the floor.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Air pack or organic canister; goggles; rubber gloves. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Personnel protection: ... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots, and goggles.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• 2-ETHYL HEXANOL is an alcohol. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. Alcohols exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides. This compound is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and strong acids. (NTP, 1992)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Insoluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• A dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat or flame; can react vigorously with oxidizing materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Routes of exposure

• The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour, by ingestion and through the skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. If swallowed the substance may cause vomiting and could result in aspiration pneumonitis.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Environmental fate

• 2-Ethylhexanol's production and use in the synthesis of plasticizers, and use as a wetting agent and solvent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. 2-Ethylhexanol is a naturally occurring plant volatile that has been identified in a variety of fruits. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.136 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 2-ethylhexanol will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2-ethylhexanol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 26 hours.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Ecotoxicity

• EC50; Species: Chlorococcales (Green Algae Order); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 130000 ug/L for 24 hr; Effect: physiology, assimilation efficiency
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• LC50; Species: Artemia salina (Brine Shrimp) nauplii; Conditions: saltwater, static, 24 °C; Concentration: 19000 ug/L for 24 hr
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• LC50; Species: Lepomis macrochirus (Bluegill) weight 0.1 g; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH 7.4, hardness 272 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: 10000 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 10000-33000 ug/L) /100% purity technical material/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

13Disposal considerations

• Product: This combustible material may be burned in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1986

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid Poison
  CAMEO Chemicals

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. 2-Ethylhexanol is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of 2-ethyl-1-hexanol are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest. Use: Solvent, adjuvant of surfactants. Limit: Not more than 10% of pesticide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol is included on this list. Effective date: 6/1/87; Sunset date: 12/19/95.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 7720 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.