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In the world of industrial chemicals, CAS numbers serve as a global identifier for chemical substances. Among these, CAS No. 84-66-2 refers to Diethyl Phthalate (commonly abbreviated as DEP) — an important chemical intermediate widely produced and supplied in India to meet both domestic and international industrial demands. 

What Is CAS No. 84-66-2?

CAS No. 84-66-2 designates Diethyl Phthalate, a synthetic organic ester with the molecular formula C₁₂H₁₄O₄ and a molecular weight of about 222.24 g/mol. Chemically, it is the diethyl ester of phthalic acid and appears as a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature. It is only slightly denser than water and has low volatility under normal conditions. 

Diethyl phthalate belongs to the class of phthalate esters, renowned for their versatility as chemical intermediates. These esters are typically formed by the esterification of phthalic anhydride with ethanol under controlled reaction conditions. 

Key Industrial Applications of Diethyl Phthalate

One reason why CAS No. 84-66-2 continues to see robust manufacturing activity in India is the wide range of applications for diethyl phthalate across industries:

Plasticizer in Polymers

Diethyl phthalate functions as a plasticizer — a compound that, when added to polymer resins, improves their flexibility, durability, and moldability. It is especially valuable in products made from cellulose acetate and various other plastics that require enhanced mechanical properties. 

Solvent for Fragrances and Cosmetics

In the fragrance and cosmetic sector, DEP is utilized as a solvent and fixative. Its ability to blend well with aromatic components helps stabilize and carry fragrances in products such as lotions, perfumes, deodorants, and skin creams. 

 Industrial Chemical Intermediate

Diethyl phthalate serves as a building block in the synthesis of a variety of specialty chemicals. Its relative chemical stability and solvent properties make it suitable for use in adhesives, sealants, and resin formulations.

 Pest Control and Repellents

Due to its compatibility with other organic compounds, DEP is often included in formulations for insect repellents and pest control products, where it enhances the dispersion of active ingredients. 

 Dye and Colorant Manufacturing

The dye and pigment industry also uses diethyl phthalate as an agent that helps carry colorants onto textile and other substrates, ensuring even application and long-lasting effects. 

Manufacturing and Supply Chain in India

India has emerged as a significant hub for chemical manufacturing, especially for intermediates like DEP. A combination of favorable production costs, established chemical infrastructure, and a strong domestic market has attracted many chemical producers to include CAS No. 84-66-2 in their portfolio.

 Domestic Production Strengths

• Chemical process expertise: Indian chemical facilities are equipped with reactors and distillation systems capable of efficient ester synthesis.
  
  

• Scalability: Production lines are designed to handle volumes ranging from small batches for research to large-scale industrial output.
  
  

• Export potential: Locally manufactured DEP is not only consumed within India but also exported to North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
  
  

Manufacturers typically adhere to quality standards such as industrial grades, technical grades, and variations tailored for specific applications like cosmetics or polymers, ensuring product suitability for end-use performance. 

Quality Considerations for Buyers

When sourcing CAS No. 84-66-2 (Diethyl Phthalate), buyers should pay attention to these key aspects:

 Purity Level

High-purity DEP (e.g., 98% or above) is essential for precision applications in cosmetics and fragrances, while slightly lower purity grades may be acceptable for general industrial use. 

Physical Properties

Understanding properties like boiling point (~298–299 °C), density (~1.12 g/mL), and solubility characteristics helps in selecting the right grade for process integration. 

Safety and Handling

Although diethyl phthalate is generally considered less hazardous than many industrial chemicals, standard chemical handling protocols (gloves, goggles, ventilation) are essential. Consult Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for detailed hazard information before use.

Market Outlook and Trends

The demand for DEP continues to be driven by growth in sectors such as personal care products, plastics, coatings, and adhesives. With sustainability becoming a global focus, manufacturers are also exploring eco-friendly production methods and alternatives with reduced environmental impact.

India’s strong manufacturing ecosystem and distribution networks position it well to meet domestic needs and global export opportunities for CAS No. 84-66-2. Challenges remain, such as fluctuations in raw material costs and adherence to evolving regulatory norms, but overall market activity is robust.

Conclusion

CAS No. 84-66-2, diethyl phthalate, is a versatile industrial chemical with significant relevance across several sectors. India’s manufacturing base for this chemical caters to both local industries and international markets by offering scalable production and diverse product grades. For buyers and end-users, understanding the chemical’s properties, applications, and quality parameters is key to making informed procurement decisions.

Whether it’s used as a plasticizer, solvent, or intermediate in chemical formulations, DEP remains a valuable component in modern manufacturing. 

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