September 28, 2026 · VASTEC Chemical
DOP Dioctyl Phthalate (CAS 117-81-7) — PVC Plasticizer Buyer's Guide
Dioctyl phthalate (DOP, also written DEHP, CAS 117-81-7) remains the largest-volume general-purpose plasticizer for flexible PVC worldwide. Despite ongoing regulatory scrutiny of certain phthalates in consumer applications, DOP continues to dominate industrial PVC formulations because of its excellent balance of plasticizing efficiency, low-temperature flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. This guide explains what buyers need to know about DOP — grades, applications, specifications, and how to source it reliably from China.
What Is DOP?
DOP (bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) is the diester of phthalic anhydride and 2-ethylhexanol. It is a clear, oily liquid with low volatility, high plasticizing efficiency, and good compatibility with PVC. DOP is also miscible with most other common plasticizers, which is why it is often used in blends with DINP, DOTP, or ESO to fine-tune performance and cost.
Key Applications of DOP
DOP's largest end uses by volume include:
- Wire and cable insulation: PVC compounds plasticized with DOP provide flexibility and electrical insulation for low- and medium-voltage cables. EV wire insulation is a growing sub-segment, requiring heat-stabilized DOP-plasticized compounds
- Flooring: Resilient vinyl floor tiles and sheet goods rely on DOP for flexibility, wear resistance, and ease of installation
- Automotive interiors: Dashboard skins, door panels, and trim use DOP-plasticized PVC for soft-touch feel and durability
- Hose and tubing: Garden hose, industrial tubing, and medical-grade tubing (subject to specific regulatory frameworks)
- Coated fabrics and artificial leather: PVC-coated textiles for upholstery, footwear, and luggage
- Sealants, gaskets, and profiles: Window gaskets, refrigerator door seals, and construction profiles
Specifications Buyers Should Verify
Standard DOP specifications for industrial PVC applications:
| Parameter | Typical Specification |
|---|---|
| Ester content | ≥99.5% |
| Color (APHA, Pt-Co) | ≤30 |
| Acid value (mg KOH/g) | ≤0.01 |
| Moisture (Karl Fischer) | ≤0.1% |
| Density (20°C) | 0.982–0.986 g/cm³ |
Always request the supplier's Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the actual batch results. Significant deviation in color or acid value can affect PVC processing and final product clarity.
Regulatory and Application Considerations
DOP (DEHP) faces regulatory restrictions in specific consumer applications — notably childcare articles and toys intended to be mouthed (under various regional frameworks including EU REACH Annex XVII and US CPSIA). For industrial applications — wire and cable, flooring, construction, automotive non-cabin parts — DOP remains widely accepted and continues to be the most cost-effective general-purpose plasticizer.
If your end product is consumer-facing, especially with potential skin or oral contact, confirm with your regulatory team whether DINP, DOTP, or a non-phthalate plasticizer may be more appropriate. For industrial-grade PVC, DOP delivers the best performance-cost balance.
Packaging and Logistics
DOP is shipped as a low-viscosity liquid. Standard options:
- 200L steel drums (~200 kg net) — best for smaller orders and easy handling at destination
- 1000L IBC totes (~1000 kg net) — efficient for medium orders; reusable; stackable
- Flexitank (20,000 kg per 20ft container) — lowest per-kg cost for bulk contracts
- ISO tank containers — for very large multi-thousand-tonne contracts
DOP has a high flash point (≥200°C) and is classified as a non-hazardous chemical for ocean freight, which simplifies shipping compared to many industrial solvents.
Sourcing DOP from China
China is the world's largest DOP producer, with extensive capacity supporting both domestic flexible-PVC manufacturing and export demand. For international buyers, sourcing from Chinese manufacturers requires attention to:
- Manufacturer qualification: Look for producers with integrated phthalic anhydride and 2-ethylhexanol feedstock, ensuring cost competitiveness and supply reliability
- Quality consistency: Verify the producer runs full GC analysis and provides detailed COA per batch
- Inspection: Pre-shipment inspection (SGS, Bureau Veritas, or CCIC) is recommended for new suppliers or large-volume contracts
- Container loading: DOP is best loaded via flexitank or ISO tank to avoid drum handling costs; drums are suitable for orders under 16 tonnes
VASTEC Chemical Supply for DOP
VASTEC supplies industrial-grade dioctyl phthalate (DOP, CAS 117-81-7) from established Chinese manufacturers. Our DOP program includes:
- Quality verified: Every batch ships with COA covering purity, color, acid value, and density
- Flexible volumes: Trial orders from one drum, bulk contracts via flexitank or ISO tank
- Inspection available: SGS, Bureau Veritas, or CCIC pre-shipment inspection on request
- Documentation: Full export paperwork including MSDS, COA, packing list, and certificate of origin
- Logistics: FOB Ningbo, Shanghai, or Qingdao with competitive freight options
DOP will remain the workhorse PVC plasticizer for industrial applications for the foreseeable future. Pair it with a qualified Chinese supplier and a transparent quality verification process, and you have a reliable, cost-effective plasticizer supply. Contact VASTEC today for DOP pricing, samples, and technical data sheets.