Industry grade 99.5% Tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate CAS 78-42-2 TOP

1. Product Overview

Tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP; TOP; C₂₄H₅₁O₄P, CAS 78-42-2) is a trialkyl organophosphate ester of phosphoric acid and 2-ethylhexanol — a clear, colorless-to-pale-yellow, viscous liquid that works simultaneously as a flame-retardant plasticizer, a pigment/dye carrier and a lubricating additive. In flexible PVC, polyurethane and nitrile rubber it imparts excellent low-temperature flexibility together with inherent flame-retarding character, and its exceptionally low melting point keeps compounds soft and pliable in cold service. Because it is highly compatible with polymers and easily dispersed, it is also widely used as a carrier for pigments and dyes in polymer coloring, as a lubricating component in hydraulic and cutting fluids, and as a release agent component in the metal casting industry.

Core value propositions:

● Flame-Retardant Plasticizer (Core Application): inherent organophosphorus flame-retarding action plus good cold flexibility in PVC, PU and NBR;

● Outstanding Low-Temperature Performance: compounds stay flexible in extreme cold;

● Pigment & Dye Carrier: effective wetting and dispersion carrier for colorants in polymer coloring;

● Multi-Role Industrial Additive: lubricant in hydraulic/cutting fluids, release agent in metal casting, solvent in specialty processes.

2. Product Information (Quick Facts)

3. Chemistry & Structure

TEHP is the triester of phosphoric acid and 2-ethylhexanol, tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (MW 434.64), a member of the trialkyl phosphate family. It is manufactured by esterification of a phosphorus oxychloride or phosphoric acid derivative with 2-ethylhexanol. The central pentavalent phosphorus atom — one P=O group with three bulky branched C8 ester chains — gives the molecule its combination of polarity and flexibility: the P=O group interacts strongly with polymer chains and contributes flame-retarding character through its phosphorus content, while the long branched alkyl tails deliver excellent compatibility, plasticizing efficiency and a very low pour point °C). The result is a low-volatility, colorless-to-pale-yellow viscous liquid that is practically insoluble in water and soluble in most organic solvents.

4. Key Features & Benefits

● Flame-retarding plasticizer: The integration of intrinsic organophosphorus flame retardancy and plasticising efficiency in one additive.

● Exceptional cold flexibility:melts at ≈ -74 °C for low temperature service.

● Broad polymer compatibility: compatible with PVC, PU, NBR and other polymer systems

● Effective pigment/dye carrier: for colour concentrates, wetting and dispersing

● Lubricating and anti-wear value:component in formulations of hydraulic and cutting fluids

● Low volatility: minimal loss and fogging during processing and service.

● Consistent quality: controlled assay, acid value, color and water content with COA.

5. Main Applications

5.1 Flame-Retardant Plasticizer for PVC & Polymers (Core Application)

TEHP combines plasticizing and flame-retarding functions in a single additive:

● Flexible PVC compounds: plasticizing action plus inherent flame-retarding character.

● Polyurethane (PU) and nitrile rubber (NBR): cold flexibility and flame retardancy.

● Vinyl plastisols and coatings: processing and flame-retardant value.

5.2 Pigment & Dye Carrier in Polymer Coloring

● Carrier for pigments and dyes used in coloring polymers.

● Color concentrates and masterbatches: wetting and dispersion of colorants.

● Consistent color development in finished parts.

5.3 Hydraulic Fluids & Cutting Fluids

● Lubricating agent in industrial hydraulic fluid formulations.

● Component in cutting fluids for metalworking operations.

● Low-temperature fluidity for cold-environment equipment.

5.4 Release Agents & Metal Processing

● Release agent component in the metal casting industry.

● Mold-release and anti-sticking behavior in foundry applications.

5.5 Solvent & Specialty Industrial Uses

● Solvent in hydrogen peroxide synthesis processes.

● Processing aid and specialty additive in industrial chemical applications.

6. Packaging, Storage

Packaging (customizable):

● 200 kg  drums; 1,000 kg IBC totes;  small packs on request;

● Clear viscous liquid—seal container to avoid moisture pickup.

Storage:

● Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container tightly closed.

● Avoid long time high temperature and direct sun light

● Keep away from strong oxidisers and sources of ignition.

7. Why Choose Jinan Future Chemical Co., Ltd.?

● Factory-direct supply: own production and sourcing capability, transparent pricing, no middleman markup.

● Stable quality: strict internal control, every batch tested (assay, acid value, color, water), COA with every shipment.

● Rapid response: quotations and technical support (COA, SDS, application advice); small trial orders accepted.

8. FAQ

Q1: What is tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP) used for?

TEHP is a multi-purpose organophosphate additive. It is used as a flame-retardant plasticizer in PVC, polyurethane and nitrile rubber, giving good cold flexibility and flame-retarding properties; as a carrier for pigments and dyes in polymer coloring; as a lubricating component in hydraulic fluids and cutting fluids; as a release agent component in the metal casting industry; and as a solvent in specialty processes such as hydrogen peroxide synthesis.

Q2: Why is TEHP a good low-temperature plasticizer?

TEHP has a melting point of about -74 °C, among the lowest of common plasticizers. Its three bulky branched C8 (2-ethylhexyl) chains keep the molecule mobile at very low temperatures, so plasticized compounds retain flexibility, softness and impact resistance in extreme cold — which is why it is chosen for cold-climate and low-temperature service in flexible PVC, PU and NBR.