TEHP – Tris(2‑ethylhexyl) Phosphate
Low volatility • PVC cables • low fog
CAS
78‑42‑2
Synonyms
Trioctyl phosphate (TOP)
Formula / MW
C₂₄H₅₁O₄P • 434.64 g/mol
Appearance
clear, colorless liquid
Density (20 °C)
~0.924 g/cm³
Alkyl phosphate plasticizer for **PVC cables** and flexible vinyl
where **low volatility** and **low fogging** are required. Also
improves flame performance when used with synergists (e.g.,
antimony compounds). Note: for the very tightest fog/volatility
specs (e.g., certain automotive interiors), higher‑MW
trimellitates (TOTM) or blends may be preferred—share your target
so we can advise.
| Parameter | Typical | Spec |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (GC) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.0% |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 30 | ≤ 50 |
| Acidity (mg KOH/g) | ≤ 0.10 | ≤ 0.20 |
| Water (Karl Fischer) | ≤ 0.10% | ≤ 0.15% |
| 2‑Ethylhexanol | ≤ 0.10% | ≤ 0.20% |
| Bis(2‑ethylhexyl) phosphate | ≤ 0.10% | ≤ 0.20% |
| Odor | very low | — |
| Property | Typical | Method/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density (20 °C) | 0.924 g/cm³ | rep. |
| Refractive index (20 °C) | ~1.441 | rep. |
| Viscosity (20–25 °C) | ~14–15 mPa·s | rep. |
| Flash point | ~190–200 °C | closed cup |
| Pour point | ≤ −45 °C | — |
| Solubility | immiscible with water; miscible with many organics | — |
| Topic | Guidance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Compounding | blend 30–50 phr in PVC, adjust per flexibility & temp rating | use Ca/Zn or Sn stabilizers as required |
| Fogging | select low‑fog cable grade and cure profile | DIN 75201 (method B) or SAE J1756—request results per lot |
| Volatility loss | optimize bake (e.g., 155 °C, 24 h) & stabilizer package | reporting per ISO/ASTM method on request |
| Flame performance | synergize with antimony compounds / ATH as needed | screen to meet cable test (VW‑1, FT1/FT2, etc.) |
For stringent interior low‑fog specs, TEHP can be used neat or in blends. Where ultra‑low fog is mandatory, trimellitate plasticizers (e.g., TOTM) may be preferred or co‑plasticized.
| Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DG classification | Often non‑DG liquid | confirm per route/forwarder |
| Handling | standard organics | use ventilation; avoid oxidizers |
| PPE | gloves, goggles, coat | see SDS |
| Hazards | irritation; suspected carcinogenicity (GHS) | consult SDS; avoid inhalation/ingestion |
| Spills/Disposal | absorb inert material | follow local regulations |
Always consult the latest SDS. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction and application; confirm suitability for your end‑use.
| Applications | Packaging | Storage & Handling |
|---|---|---|
|
• PVC cable compounds and flexible vinyl profiles.
• Conveyor belts, synthetic leather, NBR/PU modifiers. • Carrier for pigments/dyes; process aid. |
• 200 L drums; 1000 L IBC totes; bulk on request.
• Small packs (25 L) for R&D/pilot. • Nitrogen headspace recommended for long storage. |
• Store cool, dry, ventilated; protect from sunlight.
• Keep containers tightly closed; avoid water ingress. • Rotate stock; track color, acidity, residuals. |
Specs are representative; shipped material conforms to the lot
COA. Share your **fog/volatility targets** and cable standard
(e.g., UL/CSA) so we can match the right grade or blend.