CAS Number: 117-81-7. Also known as Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
and DEHP. A clear, oily liquid that is practically insoluble
in water, has a slight odor and is primarily used in the
plastics industry as a plasticizer. Chemical formula =
C24H38O4. Molecular weight = 390.57 g/mol.
Glossary Term Acronym
DEHP
Glossary Term Category
Glossary Term Show In Main
Yes
Glossary Term Ext Def
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is used in the production of
polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It exhibits low toxicity from acute
(short-term) and chronic (long-term) exposures. Acute exposure
to large oral doses of DEHP can cause gastrointestinal distress
in humans. No information is available on the chronic,
reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic effects of DEHP in
humans. Animal studies have reported increased lung weights and
increased liver weights from chronic inhalation exposure to DEHP.
Oral exposure has resulted in developmental and reproductive
effects in rats and mice. A study by the National Toxicology
Program (NTP) showed that DEHP administered orally increased the
incidence of liver tumors in rats and mice. EPA has classified
DEHP as a Group B2, probable human carcinogen