2-Ethylhexanal

A colorless liquid, it is produced on a large scale industrially as a precursor to 2-ethylhexanoic acid and 2-ethylhexanol, both used as precursors to plasticizers.

[2] 2-Ethylhexanal is synthesized by aldol condensation of two equivalents of butyraldehyde followed by hydrogenation of the intermediate 2-ethylhexenal.

The n-butyraldehyde is made by hydroformylation of propylene, either in a self-contained plant or as the first step in a fully integrated facility.

Most facilities make n-butanol and isobutanol in addition to 2-ethylhexanol.

The overall process is very similar to that of the Guerbet reaction, by which it may also be produced.

NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 2: Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible residual injury. E.g. chloroform Flammability 2: Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can occur. Flash point between 38 and 93 °C (100 and 200 °F). E.g. diesel fuel Instability 1: Normally stable, but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures. E.g. calcium Special hazards (white): no code
Synthesis of 2-Ethylhexanol
Synthesis of 2-Ethylhexanol