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Dowanol EPh is a trade name used by Dow Chemical for 2-phenoxyethanol, the same glycol ether solvent family as Dowanol EPh, with the suffix “Ph” indicating phenyl-based solvency.
Dowanol EPh is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a mild, characteristic odor and the molecular formula C₈H₁₀O₂.
Dowanol EPh is valued for its strong aromatic solvency combined with partial water miscibility.
CAS Number: 122-99-6
Molecular Formula: C8H10O2
Molecular Weight: 138.16
EINECS Number: 204-589-7
Synonyms: 2-PHENOXYETHANOL, Phenoxyethanol, 122-99-6, Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, Phenyl cellosolve, Phenoxethol, Phenoxytol, Ethanol, 2-phenoxy-, 2-Phenoxyethan-1-Ol, Phenoxetol, Ethylene glycol phenyl ether, Rose ether, Phenoxyethyl alcohol, 1-Hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane, Arosol, Phenylmonoglycol ether, 2-Phenoxyethyl alcohol, Dowanol EPh, Dowanol EPh, Glycol monophenyl ether, 2-Hydroxyethyl phenyl ether, Emeressence 1160, Fenyl-cellosolve, 2-Fenoxyethanol, Fenylcelosolv, Emery 6705, beta-Hydroxyethyl phenyl ether, EGMPE, Dalpad A, Plastiazan-41, beta-Phenoxyethanol, DTXSID9021976, Newpol EFP, NSC-1864, HIE492ZZ3T, FEMA NO. 4620, DTXCID401976, CHEBI:64275, CPAP WIPES, VAXOL PURI, RefChem:55846, beta-Phenoxyethyl alcohol, MELAO DEODORANT Cream, MELAO COLOR HAIR WAX, 204-589-7, 2-Phenoxy-ethanol, MFCD00002857, Phenylglycol, 9004-78-8, .beta.-Hydroxyethyl phenyl ether, NSC 1864, Phenoxyethanol [NF], Ethylene glycol-monophenyl ether, PHE-G, .beta.-Phenoxyethyl alcohol, 2-Phenoxyethyl--d4 Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol (NF), NCGC00090731-01, NCGC00090731-05, Fenylcelosolv [Czech], 2-Fenoxyethanol [Czech], Fenyl-cellosolve [Czech], Plastiazan-41 [Russian], CAS-122-99-6, .beta.-Phenoxyethanol, HSDB 5595, EINECS 204-589-7, UNII-HIE492ZZ3T, BRN 1364011, AI3-00752()C, phenylcellosolve, CCRIS 9481, Ethoxylated phenol, 2-phenyloxyethanol, 2-phenoxy ethanol, Phenoxyethanol CRS, 2-(phenoxy)ethanol, Domiphen Impurity 4, 2-phenoxy-1-ethanol, beta-phenoxyethylalcohol, starbld0047047, PHE-S, 2-Phenoxyethanol, 9CI, 2-Phenoxyethanol, 99%, Phenoxyethanol (Standard), WLN: Q2OR, EC 204-589-7, PHENOXYETHANOL [II], 2-Phenoxyethanol-1,1-d2, SCHEMBL15708, SCHEMBL57755, 2-Phenoxyethanol, >=99%, PHENOXYETHANOL [HSDB], 4-06-00-00571 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), MLS002174254, ethyleneglycol monophenyl ether, Euxyl K 400 (Salt/Mix), ProClin® 8020 preservatives, SCHEMBL194335, SCHEMBL348920, SCHEMBL348921, Ethyleneglycol-monophenyl ether, 2-PHENOXYETHANOL [MI], PHENOXYETHANOL [MART.], orb1306704, orb3025203, SCHEMBL1679226, SCHEMBL4072387, SCHEMBL6721192, SCHEMBL8371561, SCHEMBL8535485, PHENOXYETHANOL [USP-RS], PHENOXYETHANOL [WHO-DD], CHEMBL1229846, SCHEMBL10611874, SCHEMBL10873485, SCHEMBL11659790, HY-B1729R, MSK2538, NSC1864, HMS2268A20, BB_SC-02741, HY-B1729, STR04582, WAA27338, Tox21_111002, Tox21_113532, Tox21_202111, Tox21_300842, BBL027410, EBC-26080, PHENOXYETHANOL [EP MONOGRAPH], SBB060485, STK802556, 2-Phenoxyethanol, analytical standard, Fungal Terminator [veterinary] (TN), AKOS000118741, Tox21_111002_1, DB11304, FP31791, NCGC00090731-02, NCGC00090731-03, NCGC00090731-04, NCGC00090731-06, NCGC00090731-07, NCGC00090731-08, NCGC00254745-01, NCGC00259660-01, 56257-90-0, DA-76810, Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, >=90%, SMR000112131, ETHANOL,2-PHENOXY MFC8 H10 O2, CS-0013737, NS00002984, P0115, P1953, ST51046662, EN300-19339, 2-Phenoxyethanol, tested according to Ph.Eur., D08359, G74506, SBI-0653920.0001, F005091, Q418038, SR-01000838345, SR-01000838345-2, F1905-6997, Z104473570, Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, SAJ first grade, >=95.0%, Phenoxyethanol, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, Phenoxyethanol, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, InChI=1/C8H10O2/c9-6-7-10-8-4-2-1-3-5-8/h1-5,9H,6-7H, 2-Phenoxyethanol, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, Ethylene Glycol Monophenyl Ether Phenyl Cellosolve Phenyl Glycol;ETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOPHENYL ETHER FOR SYN;(2-Hydroxyethoxy)benzene;PhG;Protectol PE;ACETONITRILE ACS GRADE;beta-Phenoxyethanol;beta-phenoxyethanol[qr]
Dowanol EPh consists of a phenyl ring linked to an ethylene glycol ether chain.
This structure provides both lipophilic and hydrophilic behavior, allowing it to dissolve resins, oils, preservatives, and active ingredients.
It is chemically stable under normal storage and formulation conditions.
Physical properties of Dowanol EPh include a relatively high boiling point and low vapor pressure.
These characteristics reduce evaporation losses and improve occupational safety compared with more volatile solvents.
Its controlled evaporation rate supports uniform film formation in coatings and formulations.
In coatings and inks, Dowanol EPh is used as a high-performance solvent and coalescing aid.
Dowanol EPh improves flow, leveling, gloss, and polymer film continuity in water-borne and hybrid systems.
This makes it suitable for architectural, industrial, and specialty coatings.
In adhesives, sealants, and resin formulations, Dowanol EPh functions as a compatibility solvent.
It helps dissolve polymeric binders and plasticizers while maintaining formulation stability.
This results in improved shelf life and consistent application behavior.
In personal care and cosmetic products, Dowanol EPh (as phenoxyethanol) is widely used as a preservative solvent and stabilizer.
Dowanol EPh supports antimicrobial systems by solubilizing preservatives and fragrances.
Typical applications include creams, lotions, wipes, deodorants, and hair-care products.
In household, institutional, and industrial cleaners, Dowanol EPh enhances wetting, penetration, and antimicrobial efficiency.
Dowanol EPh is commonly found in disinfectants, detergents, and surface-cleaning formulations.
Its balanced solvency allows effective cleaning without excessive volatility.
Toxicological and safety considerations show relatively low acute toxicity at regulated concentrations.
However, concentrated exposure may cause skin or eye irritation and mild central nervous system effects.
Appropriate protective equipment and ventilation are recommended for industrial handling.
Regulatory status allows Dowanol EPh to be used globally in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products under defined limits.
It appears in pharmacopoeial and regulatory listings depending on purity grade and application.
Compliance is based on concentration, exposure route, and end use.
In summary, Dowanol EPh is a phenyl-based glycol ether solvent grade of phenoxyethanol.
Its combination of strong solvency, low volatility, and broad compatibility makes it valuable across coatings, cosmetics, cleaners, and specialty chemicals.
Today, it remains a widely used formulation ingredient where controlled, reliable solvent performance is required.
Dowanol EPh is a common preservative in vaccine formulations.
Dowanol EPh has a faint rose-like aroma.
Dowanol EPh is a trade name used by Dow Chemical for 2-phenoxyethanol, an aromatic glycol ether with the chemical formula C₈H₁₀O₂.
It is a colorless, slightly oily liquid with a mild, rose-like odor and good solvent properties.
Dowanol EPh is valued for its balance of water solubility and organic solvency.
Chemically, Dowanol EPh consists of a phenyl ring linked to an ethylene glycol moiety.
This structure gives it both hydrophilic and lipophilic character, allowing it to dissolve a wide range of resins, oils, and active ingredients.
Dowanol EPh is relatively stable under normal storage and processing conditions.
Physically, Dowanol EPh has a high boiling point and low vapor pressure compared to many organic solvents.
Melting point: 11–13 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 247 °C (lit.)
Density: 1.102 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
Vapor density: 4.8 (vs air)
Vapor pressure: 0.01 mm Hg (20 °C)
Refractive index: n20/D 1.539
FEMA: 4620 | 2-Phenoxyethanol
Flash point: >230 °F
Storage temp.: Store below +30 °C
Solubility: Soluble; clear; colorless to very faintly yellow
pKa: 14.36 ± 0.10 (predicted)
Form: Liquid
Color: Clear, colorless
Specific gravity: 1.109 (20/4 °C)
pH: 7 (10 g/L, H₂O, 23 °C)
Odor: Faint aromatic odor
pH range: 7 at 10 g/L at 23 °C
Odor type: Floral
Viscosity: 29 mm²/s (20 °C)
Explosive limit: 1.4–9.0% (V)
Water solubility: 30 g/L (20 °C)
Merck: 14,7257
BRN: 1364011
Major application: Environmental
Cosmetics ingredients functions: Antimicrobial; preservative
InChI: 1S/C8H10O2/c9-6-7-10-8-4-2-1-3-5-8/h1-5,9H,6-7H2
InChIKey: QCDWFXQBSFUVSP-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: OCCOc1ccccc1
LogP: 1.2 at 23 °C
Dowanol EPh is a commercial solvent grade in Dow’s glycol ether product line, corresponding to 2-phenoxyethanol, and is closely related to Dowanol EPh.
The designation “EPh” emphasizes its phenyl (aromatic) ether character, highlighting stronger organic solvency compared with purely aliphatic glycol ethers.
Dowanol EPh is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild, characteristic odor.
From a chemical structure perspective, Dowanol EPh contains an aromatic phenyl ring attached to an ethylene glycol ether chain.
This dual structure gives it amphiphilic behavior, allowing interaction with both polar (water-based) and non-polar (organic) components.
As a result, it acts as an effective bridging solvent in complex formulations.
Physically, Dowanol EPh has a relatively high boiling point and low vapor pressure, which minimizes evaporation during processing and application.
This reduces solvent loss, odor intensity, and worker exposure compared with more volatile solvents.
Its thermal stability supports use in processes involving moderate heat.
Dowanol EPh is a tried-and-tested preservative, which is welltolerated by the skin and has a low allergy risk.
Dowanol EPh can be used over a wide pH range.
This means that other preservatives can lose their effectiveness if the product is not within the right pH range.
Dowanol EPh does not smell unpleasant or change the color of the product, which can be the case when using natural antimicrobial substances.
Dowanol EPh is an aromatic, slow-evaporating glycol ether.
It can be used in dyeing synthetic fibers, both as a dye solubilizer and as a dye carrier.
Dowanol EPh is also a very efficient coalescing agent.
It finds additional uses in cosmetics and cleaning products.
It is effective in the formulation of homogeneous, stable metal working fluids.
Dowanol EPh has the molecular formula C₈H₁₀O₂ and a molecular weight of about 138.16 g/mol.
The phenyl group contributes strong organic solvency, while the ethylene glycol segment provides partial water miscibility.
As a result, it functions effectively as a bridging solvent between aqueous and organic phases.
Physically, Dowanol EPh is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a mild, characteristic odor often described as rose-like.
Dowanol EPh has a relatively high boiling point and low vapor pressure, which minimizes evaporation during processing.
These properties improve worker safety and reduce solvent loss compared with more volatile alternatives.
In coatings technology, Dowanol EPh is used as a coalescing solvent and flow modifier in water-borne and hybrid coatings.
It improves polymer particle fusion during drying, enhancing film integrity, gloss, and surface smoothness.
These properties are particularly valuable in architectural, industrial, and specialty coatings.
In inks and printing formulations, Dowanol EPh enhances pigment wetting and dispersion.
It contributes to controlled drying rates and consistent print quality.
This makes it suitable for both industrial and specialty ink systems.
In adhesives, sealants, and polymer systems, Dowanol EPh acts as a compatibility and solubilizing agent.
It helps dissolve resins, plasticizers, and functional additives without phase separation.
This improves formulation stability, shelf life, and application consistency.
In personal care and cosmetic formulations, Dowanol EPh (as phenoxyethanol) is widely used as a preservative solvent and stabilizer.
It supports antimicrobial systems by dissolving preservatives and fragrances evenly throughout the product.
Applications include creams, lotions, wipes, deodorants, and hair-care products.
In household, institutional, and industrial cleaners, Dowanol EPh improves wetting, penetration, and soil removal.
It enhances the performance of disinfectants and sanitizers by increasing solubility and contact efficiency of active agents.
Its low volatility makes it suitable for wipe-based and spray formulations.
Toxicological characteristics show low acute toxicity when used within regulated limits.
However, concentrated exposure may cause skin or eye irritation and mild central nervous system effects.
Standard industrial hygiene practices—gloves, eye protection, and ventilation—are recommended.
Regulatory status allows Dowanol EPh to be used globally under defined concentration limits.
It appears in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial regulations depending on purity grade and end use.
Compliance is based on exposure route, application type, and regional regulatory frameworks.
Dowanol EPh can be described as a high-performance, phenyl-based glycol ether solvent.
Its balance of strong solvency, low volatility, and broad formulation compatibility makes it valuable across coatings, adhesives, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
Dowanol EPh remains an important formulation ingredient where controlled evaporation and reliable solvency are required.
Uses Of Dowanol EPh:
Dowanol EPh is widely used as a solvent and coalescing aid in water-borne and hybrid coatings.
It improves film formation by promoting polymer particle fusion during drying.
This results in smoother surfaces, better gloss, and enhanced coating durability.
In industrial and architectural paints, Dowanol EPh enhances flow, leveling, and pigment dispersion.
It helps maintain uniform viscosity and prevents surface defects such as cracking or poor adhesion.
Its low volatility supports controlled drying and reduced odor during application.
Dowanol EPh is applied in inks and printing formulations as a pigment wetting and dispersion solvent.
It contributes to consistent color development and controlled drying behavior.
This makes it suitable for specialty and industrial printing systems.
In adhesives, sealants, and resin systems, Dowanol EPh functions as a compatibility solvent.
Dowanol EPh dissolves binders, plasticizers, and additives without phase separation.
This improves formulation stability, shelf life, and bonding performance.
In personal care and cosmetic products, Dowanol EPh (as phenoxyethanol) serves as a preservative solvent and stabilizer.
It helps solubilize fragrances and antimicrobial agents while maintaining clarity and texture.
Common applications include creams, lotions, wipes, deodorants, and hair-care products.
Dowanol EPh is used in household, institutional, and industrial cleaning formulations.
It enhances wetting, soil penetration, and antimicrobial efficiency.
This makes it valuable in disinfectants, surface cleaners, and sanitizing wipes.
In pharmaceutical and medical-related formulations, Dowanol EPh acts as a solvent and preservative support ingredient.
It may be used in topical products and regulated medical formulations meeting pharmacopoeial standards.
Such uses require strict compliance with purity and concentration limits.
Dowanol EPh is also applied in agrochemical and specialty chemical formulations as a carrier and solubilizing agent.
It improves dispersion of active ingredients in liquid formulations.
This enhances stability and delivery performance in sprayable products.
Dowanol EPh is extensively used as a high-performance solvent and coalescing agent in water-borne, solvent-borne, and hybrid coatings.
It improves polymer coalescence during drying, resulting in enhanced film continuity, gloss, adhesion, and mechanical durability.
These properties make it suitable for architectural paints, industrial coatings, and specialty protective finishes.
Dowanol EPh at a 1.0% level acts as a preservative in personal care products.
Dowanol EPh is widely used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and inks, particularly in water-borne and hybrid formulations.
It improves resin solubility, flow, leveling, and film formation, leading to smoother and more uniform coatings.
Dowanol EPhs low volatility helps reduce drying defects and solvent loss during application.
In adhesives, sealants, and resin systems, Dowanol EPh functions as a formulation solvent and stabilizer.
It enhances compatibility between polymers, plasticizers, and functional additives.
This results in improved shelf life and consistent application performance.
Dowanol EPh is commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products as a preservative solvent and formulation aid.
It helps dissolve fragrances, preservatives, and active ingredients while maintaining clarity and stability.
Typical applications include creams, lotions, wipes, deodorants, and hair-care products.
In household, institutional, and industrial cleaners, Dowanol EPh improves cleaning efficiency and antimicrobial performance.
Dowanol EPh enhances wetting and penetration, allowing active ingredients to act more effectively on surfaces.
This makes it suitable for disinfectants, detergents, and sanitizing wipes.
In pharmaceutical and medical products, Dowanol EPh is used as a solvent and preservative component in topical formulations.
Dowanol EPh also appears in medical-grade cleaning and disinfection solutions for equipment and devices.
Such uses require compliance with pharmacopoeial purity standards.
Dowanol EPh is applied in agricultural and specialty chemical formulations as a carrier and solubilizing agent.
It helps disperse active ingredients evenly in sprayable or emulsified products.
This improves formulation stability and delivery efficiency.
In industrial processing and manufacturing, Dowanol EPh is used in metalworking fluids, surface treatments, and specialty formulations.
It provides controlled solvency without excessive evaporation.
These properties support safer handling and consistent process performance.
Dowanol EPh is a preservative used in consumer and health care products, including vaccines, pen inks, ear drops, shampoos, skin cleansers, moisturizers, sun care products, and topical medicaments.
The preservative Euxyl-K 400 also contains Dowanol EPh, in combination with methyldibromoglutaronitrile.
Dowanol EPh is commonly used in cosmetics for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
In industrial and decorative paint formulations, Dowanol EPh supports viscosity control, pigment wetting, and leveling behavior.
It helps prevent defects such as poor flow, pinholes, and uneven film thickness.
Its low evaporation rate contributes to smoother application and extended open time.
Dowanol EPh is widely applied in printing inks and graphic arts formulations.
It enhances pigment dispersion and stabilizes ink systems while controlling drying speed.
This ensures consistent color strength, print sharpness, and surface quality.
In adhesives, sealants, and elastomer formulations, Dowanol EPh functions as a solvency and compatibility agent.
It dissolves resins, tackifiers, and plasticizers while maintaining homogeneous mixtures.
This improves bonding performance, flexibility, and long-term stability.
In personal care and cosmetic products, Dowanol EPh (as phenoxyethanol) is used as a preservative solvent and formulation stabilizer.
It aids in dissolving fragrances, preservatives, and active ingredients while maintaining clarity and texture.
Common products include creams, lotions, wipes, deodorants, sunscreens, and hair-care formulations.
Dowanol EPh is an important ingredient in household, institutional, and industrial cleaning products.
It improves wetting, soil penetration, and antimicrobial effectiveness of disinfectants and detergents.
Its balanced solvency makes it especially suitable for hard-surface cleaners and sanitizing wipes.
Dowanol EPh is utilized in agrochemical and specialty chemical formulations as a carrier and solubilizing agent.
It improves dispersion and stability of active ingredients in liquid concentrates and emulsions.
This enhances delivery efficiency and formulation reliability.
In industrial processing and surface treatment applications, Dowanol EPh is used in metalworking fluids, surface cleaners, and specialty formulations.
It provides controlled solvency with reduced volatility and odor.
These characteristics support safer handling and consistent industrial performance.
Safety Profile Of Dowanol EPh:
Dowanol EPh can cause skin and eye irritation upon direct contact, especially at high concentrations or with prolonged exposure.
Symptoms may include redness, itching, or burning sensations.
Protective gloves and eye protection are recommended during handling and formulation.
Inhalation hazards may occur when vapors or mists are present in poorly ventilated areas.
Exposure can lead to headache, dizziness, nausea, or mild central nervous system depression.
Although its vapor pressure is relatively low, adequate ventilation is essential in industrial use.
Ingestion risks include gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity if swallowed in significant amounts.
Animal studies indicate harmful effects at high doses, including impacts on the liver and kidneys.
Accidental ingestion requires immediate medical attention.
Chronic or repeated exposure at elevated levels may pose additional health concerns.
Prolonged exposure has been associated with effects on the central nervous system and blood chemistry in toxicological studies.
Regulatory limits are therefore established for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and occupational exposure.
Dowanol EPh is combustible, though it is not highly flammable under normal conditions.
Dowanol EPh may form flammable vapor–air mixtures at elevated temperatures.
During combustion or thermal decomposition, it can release hazardous fumes such as carbon monoxide and aromatic compounds.
Environmental hazards are considered moderate.
Dowanol EPh is biodegradable but can be harmful to aquatic organisms at high concentrations.
Spills should be contained and prevented from entering waterways or soil.
