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中文简体At Zhejiang Great Chemical, we have spent more than fifteen years producing and supplying plasticizers to manufacturers around the world. One product that consistently earns attention for its low-temperature performance is dioctyl adipate, commonly known as DOA. Whether you are formulating flexible PVC for cold-climate cables, looking for a non-phthalate plasticizer for sensitive applications, or simply comparing your options, understanding DOA can help you make a more informed decision. In this guide, we share what we have learned on the production floor and in the laboratory about this versatile adipate ester.
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What Is Dioctyl Adipate (DOA)?
DOA, or bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate, is an organic compound formed from adipic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. Its CAS number is 123-79-5, and its molecular formula is C22H42O4. At room temperature, it appears as a clear, colorless, oily liquid with a mild odor. Because it is highly compatible with PVC and many other polymers, it is classified as a primary plasticizer, although it is often used in blends to improve low-temperature flexibility.
Unlike phthalate plasticizers, DOA belongs to the adipate family. This distinction matters for formulators who want to reduce reliance on ortho-phthalates while maintaining good processing and performance characteristics. DOA is also valued as a solvent and carrier in cosmetics, fragrance candles, and other specialty applications.
Dioctyl AdipateProperties and Specifications :View Product →Key Properties and Technical Profile
Understanding the technical profile of DOA helps explain why it performs so well in demanding conditions. The table below summarizes the typical properties of the material we produce.
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C22H42O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 370.57 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Density (20°C) | Approx. 0.92 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | Above 200°C at reduced pressure |
| Flash Point | Above 190°C |
| Viscosity (20°C) | Approx. 15–20 mPa·s |
| Water Solubility | Practically insoluble |
| Compatibility | PVC, nitrocellulose, ethyl cellulose, synthetic rubber |
These properties translate into practical benefits: excellent low-temperature flexibility, low volatility, good resistance to extraction, and easy processing. DOA also has a lower plasticizing efficiency than DOP, so it is often blended with other plasticizers rather than used alone. That said, its ability to keep flexible PVC pliable at temperatures as low as -30°C or lower makes it a valuable component in cold-weather applications.
Primary Applications of Dioctyl Adipate
DOA is used across a wide range of industries. Its primary role is as a plasticizer for PVC and other polymers, but it also serves as a solvent and lubricant in specialty formulations. Common applications include:
- Flexible PVC cables and wires, especially those used outdoors or in cold climates.
- Films, sheets, and coated fabrics where low-temperature flexibility is essential.
- Synthetic rubber, nitrocellulose, and ethyl cellulose products.
- Adhesives, sealants, and coatings that require good flexibility and durability.
- Cosmetic formulations, where it acts as a plasticizer and solvent to improve texture and spreadability.
- Fragrance candles and other wax-based products, thanks to its compatibility with waxes and neutral solvent properties.
To learn more about its primary use, our detailed article explains how formulators apply DOA in practice.
How DOA Compares with Other Plasticizers
Choosing the right plasticizer often means comparing several options. DOA is frequently evaluated alongside DOP, DOTP, DINP, and TOTM. Each has a different balance of cost, performance, and regulatory profile.
DOP is a general-purpose phthalate plasticizer with high plasticizing efficiency and broad availability. DOTP is a terephthalate alternative that offers similar performance to DOP but with a more favorable environmental profile. DINP is a high-molecular-weight phthalate known for its durability and low volatility. TOTM is a trimellitate used in high-temperature and high-performance applications.
DOA stands out for its low-temperature flexibility. It is typically more expensive than DOP and has lower plasticizing efficiency, so it is often used at 10–30% in blends with other plasticizers. In those blends, DOA improves cold flexibility without sacrificing too much of the host plasticizer’s performance.
Dioctyl TerephthalateProperties and Specifications:View Product →Safety, Toxicity, and Handling Considerations
DOA has a relatively favorable safety profile compared with many traditional plasticizers. It is not classified as acutely toxic, and it is not considered a carcinogen or reproductive toxicant under current regulatory frameworks. However, like all industrial chemicals, it should be handled with proper care. Good practice includes using personal protective equipment, ensuring adequate ventilation, and avoiding prolonged skin contact. Spills should be cleaned up promptly, and waste should be disposed of according to local regulations.
For cosmetic and personal care applications, DOA is used at low concentrations and must meet purity and quality standards. Our production process includes rigorous quality control to ensure that every batch meets the required specifications.
Market Trends and Sustainability
The plasticizer market is shifting. Manufacturers and brand owners are increasingly looking for alternatives to ortho-phthalates, driven by consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and sustainability goals. Adipate plasticizers like DOA are part of this shift, particularly in applications where low-temperature performance and non-phthalate labeling are important.
At the same time, the demand for durable, long-lasting flexible PVC continues to grow in construction, automotive, wire and cable, and medical devices. DOA’s ability to maintain flexibility in cold environments makes it a natural fit for many of these end uses. As a company, we see growing interest in DOA from customers in cold-chain packaging, outdoor cables, and automotive interiors.
Why Source Dioctyl Adipate from Zhejiang Great Chemical
At Zhejiang Great Chemical, we have been manufacturing plasticizers since 2008. Our facility covers approximately 125 acres and is located just three kilometers from Jiaxing Port, with convenient access to major highways. This location helps us serve both domestic and international customers efficiently.
We produce a range of plasticizers, including DOP, DOTP, DINP, DOA, TOTM, and phthalic anhydride. Our DOA is manufactured to consistent quality standards, and our environmental plasticizers are reported to meet EU standards. With more than 180 employees, including technical specialists and management professionals, we combine production capacity with practical know-how. Whether you need a full container of DOA or a blended plasticizer solution, our team can help you select the right grade for your application.
Dioctyl adipate may not be the most talked-about plasticizer, but it plays a critical role in formulations that must stay flexible in cold conditions. From cables and films to cosmetics and candles, DOA offers a combination of performance, safety, and versatility that few other adipates can match. If you are evaluating DOA for your next project, we invite you to contact our team. We are happy to share samples, technical data, and practical advice based on our years of experience in the plasticizer industry.
