Diethyl Phthalate

Synonyms: DEP; diethyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate; diethylis phthalas; ethyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate; ethyl phthalate; Kodaflex DEP; Neantine; Palatinol A; phthalic acid diethyl ester

Description: Diethyl phthalate is a clear, colorless, oily liquid. It is practically odorless, or with a very slight aromatic odor and a bitter, disagreeable taste.

Chemical Name: 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, diethyl ester

Film-forming agent; plasticizer; solvent.

• Diethyl phthalate is used as a plasticizer for film coatings on tablets, beads, and granules at concentrations of 10–30% by weight of polymer.

• Diethyl phthalate is also used as an alcohol denaturant and as a solvent for cellulose acetate in the manufacture of varnishes and dopes.

• In perfumery, diethyl phthalate is used as a perfume fixative at a concentration of 0.1–0.5% of the weight of the perfume used.

Incompatible with strong oxidizing materials, acids, and permanganates.

Diethyl phthalate is used in oral pharmaceutical formulations and is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material at the levels employed as an excipient. However, if consumed in large quantities it can act as a narcotic and cause paralysis of the central nervous system.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Diethyl phthalate is irritant to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Protective clothing, eye protection, and nitrile gloves are recommended. Diethyl phthalate should be handled in a fume cupboard or a well-ventilated environment; a respirator is recommended.

Dibutyl phthalate; dimethyl phthalate