2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol is an oily, colorless, slightly viscous
liquid, that is soluble in alcohol and ether but poorly soluble
in water (4.2% at 20°C).
2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol is produced commercially by hydrogenating
butyraldol (2-ethyl-3-hydroxycaproaldehyde). It is
used largely as an insect repellent but also as a solvent for
resins and inks, a plasticizer, and a chemical intermediate in
the production of polyurethane resins .
2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol (EHD) can be used as:
- A boron extractant.
- A reactive solvent in the synthesis of magnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles by non-hydrolytic sol-gel method.
- A starting material in the selective synthesis of 2-ethyl-1-hydroxy-3-hexanone by oxidation using H2O2.
Insect repellent, cosmetics, vehicle and solvent in printing inks, medicine, chelating agent for boric acid. It also fifinds use as solvent for low residual flflux in soft solder paste.
Ethyl hexanediol will not irritate human skin but can cause a chemical conjunctivitis.
It is a standard repellent for chiggers, mosquitoes, black flies, and other biting flies
and is more useful when combined with dimethyl phthalate and indalone. The mixture
of these three chemicals will repel ticks and flies when it is applied to clothing.
ChEBI: 2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol is an aliphatic alcohol.
Flammability and Explosibility
Non flammable
Moderately toxic by
ingestion and skin contact. Experimental
teratogenic and reproductive effects. A skin
and severe eye irritant. Used as an
insecticide, insect repellent, and in hair care
preparations. Combustible when exposed to
heat or flame; can react with oxidzing
materials. To fight fire, use alcohol foam,
foam, dry chemical. When heated to
decomposition it emits acrid smoke and
irritating fumes.
