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Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), with CAS No. 6422-86-2, a molecular formula of C₂₄H₃₈O₄, and a molecular weight of 390.56, is an environmentally friendly alternative to dioctyl phthalate (DOP). Owing to its non-toxic and eco-friendly properties, DOTP has increasingly replaced DOP in numerous applications in recent years.
- Appearance and physical properties: a colorless, transparent, oil-like liquid with no odor (a distinct difference from DOP, which typically has a slight odor); insoluble in water, slightly soluble in ethylene glycol and glycerin, and readily soluble in acetone, diethyl ether, benzene, toluene, and other organic solvents.
- Physical properties: melting point –48°C, boiling point 400°C (at atmospheric pressure), flash point 210–216°C (open cup), density 0.983–0.986 g/cm³ (20°C), refractive index n₂₀/D 1.488–1.490, viscosity 63 mPa·s (20°C) (slightly lower than DOP, with better flowability).
- Chemical properties: It exhibits excellent heat resistance, cold resistance, light resistance, and water resistance. Its molecular structure is linear, and it demonstrates good compatibility with PVC resin; however, its migratory tendency is lower than that of DOP (making it less likely to leach out of finished products). It also has a high volume resistivity and superior insulating performance compared with DOP.
Uses
DOTP is considered an ideal substitute for DOP and is primarily used in the following areas:
1. Eco-friendly PVC products (core applications):
Due to its non-toxicity (as certified by the U.S. FDA), it is widely used in high-safety-demand applications such as food packaging materials, medical blood transfusion bags, medical catheters, and children’s toys.
2. Wires and Cables:
It is particularly suitable for high-temperature and high-insulation wire and cable compounds (such as 105°C-grade cables), with electrical insulation performance superior to that of DOP.
3. Automotive Industry:
It is used in automotive interior trim materials, sealing strips, hoses, and other components, offering excellent resistance to the high-temperature environment inside vehicles while remaining odorless, thereby enhancing in-cabin air quality.
4. Coatings and Adhesives:
It is used as a plasticizer for coatings, polyurethane elastomers, and epoxy resins, enhancing the flexibility and adhesion of the paint film.
5. Other:
A softening agent for synthetic rubber and a lubricant for precision instruments.