Dimethyl Phthalate

Dimethyl Phthalate

AKA “131-11-3, DIMETHYLPHTHALATE, Avolin, Mipax, Palatinol M, Solvanom, Solvarone, Fermine, Dimethyl o-phthalate”

Ingredient

Ingredient Facts

Dimethyl phthalate

AKA: 131-11-3, DIMETHYLPHTHALATE, Avolin, Mipax, Palatinol M, Solvanom, Solvarone, Fermine, Dimethyl o-phthalate

Ingredient · Film Forming · EWG: 4

Synthetic

Occlusive

Solvent

Not Clean

Dimethyl phthalate has many uses, including in solid rocket propellants, plastics, and insect repellants. Acute (short-term) exposure to dimethyl phthalate, via inhalation in humans and animals, results in irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. No information is available on the chronic (long-term), reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic effects of dimethyl phthalate in humans. Animal studies have reported slight effects on growth and on the kidney from chronic oral exposure to the chemical. EPA has classified dimethyl phthalate as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogencity.

Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

Formula

C10H10O4

Mol. Weight

194.18

CAS #

131-11-3

Form

Powder

State

Dimethyl phthalate appears as a water-white liquid without significant odor. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Flash point 300 °F. Eye contact may produce severe irritati

See origin →

Functions

Film Forming

Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.

Plasticiser

Solvent

Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.

Quells irritation

Traditional Use

A synthetic plasticizer developed in the early 20th century and historically used in cosmetics to improve flexibility in nail polishes and film-forming products, though its use has declined due to regulatory concerns.