2-Ethylhexyl acetate

Description

Octyl acetate (octyl ethanoate, acetate C-8, or caprylyl acetate), occurs in many autumn fruits, including apples and pears. You can find it as well in other fruits, from kumquats to oranges, and even in whole wheat bread and beer. Food processing companies make octyl acetate synthetically and use it either to impart a citrus flavor or in combination with other compounds to make artificial apple, peach, pear, and strawberry flavors.

Chemical properties

clear colorless liquid

The Uses of 2-Ethylhexyl acetate

Solvent for nitrocellulose, some resins, waxes, and oils.

What are the applications of Application

2-Ethylhexyl acetate is a solvent used for proteomics research

Definition

ChEBI: An acetate ester that is hexyl acetate substituted by an ethyl group at position 2.

Synthesis Reference(s)

Synthetic Communications, 20, p. 125, 1990 DOI: 10.1080/00397919008054623
Tetrahedron Letters, 23, p. 5407, 1982 DOI: 10.1016/0040-4039(82)80142-1

General Description

A water-white liquid. Insoluble in water and is less dense than water. Flash point 180°F. Used as a solvent and in perfumes. Liquid or vapors may irritate skin and eyes. Vapors have a fruity, pleasant odor.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

2-Ethylhexyl acetate is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides. Contact with strong oxidizers may cause vigorous reaction [USCG, 1999].

Health Hazard

Prolonged skin contact may cause irritation.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Irritating vapors and toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, may be formed when involved in fire.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Safety Profile

Moderately toxic by ingestion. Askin and eye irritant. Flammable when exposed to heat orflame; can react with oxidizing materials. To fight fire, usefoam, CO2, dry chemical. When heated to decompositionit emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.