Stannous dioctoate is a widely used organotin catalyst, most notably in polyurethane production where it accelerates the critical reaction between isocyanates and polyols, controlling foam rise, curing, and final material properties.
Beyond polyurethanes, Stannous dioctoate is extensively employed in the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters such as lactide and glycolide to produce biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), as well as in silicone crosslinking, esterification, and transesterification reactions.
Stannous dioctoate's high activity, good solubility in organic systems, and versatility across coatings, adhesives, sealants, packaging, and biomedical materials make stannous dioctoate an indispensable specialty chemical, despite increasing regulatory scrutiny due to its toxicity and environmental concerns.
CAS Number: 149-57-5
EC Number: 205-743-6
Molecular Formula: C8H16O2
Molecular Weight: 144.21
Synonyms: 2-ETHYLHEXANOIC ACID, 149-57-5, 2-Ethylcaproic acid, Hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-, Ethylhexanoic acid, Ethylhexoic acid, 2-Ethylhexoic acid, Butylethylacetic acid, 2-Butylbutanoic acid, 3-Heptanecarboxylic acid, Ethyl hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-hexoic acid, 2-ethyl hexanoic acid, alpha-Ethylcaproic acid, 2-ethyl-hexanoic acid, Ethyl hexanoic acid, 2-, alpha-ethyl caproic acid, MFCD00002675, .alpha.-Ethylcaproic acid, 2-Ethyl-1-hexanoic acid, 01MU2J7VVZ, 2-EHA, 2-ETHYL HEXOIC ACID,AR, DTXSID9025293, CHEBI:89058, NSC-8881, 2-Ethylhexansaeure, DTXCID805293, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid, >=99%, 2-ethylhexanoicacid, CAS-149-57-5, 2 ETHYL HEXANOIC ACID, CCRIS 3348, HSDB 5649, Kyselina 2-ethylkapronova [Czech], NSC 8881, Kyselina 2-ethylkapronova, EINECS 205-743-6, (+/-)-2-ETHYLHEXANOIC ACID, UNII-01MU2J7VVZ, Kyselina heptan-3-karboxylova [Czech], BRN 1750468, Kyselina heptan-3-karboxylova, AI3-01371, Hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-, (-)-, EINECS 262-971-9, 2-Ethylcapronic acid, 2-Ethyl-Hexonic acid, alpha-Ethylhexanoic acid, .alpha.-Ethylhexanoic acid, EC 205-743-6, SCHEMBL25800, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid, 99%, MLS002415695, CHEMBL1162485, WLN: QVY4 & 2, NSC8881, HMS2267F21, STR05759, 2-ETHYLHEXANOIC ACID [HSDB], Tox21_201406, Tox21_300108, LMFA01020087, MSK157439, AKOS009031416, AT29893, CS-W016381, SB44987, SB44994, NCGC00091324-01, NCGC00091324-02, NCGC00091324-03, NCGC00253985-01, NCGC00258957-01, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid, analytical standard, BP-14131, SMR001252268, 1ST157439, MSK157439-1000, E0120, NS00010660, EN300-20410, 1ST157439-1000, Q209384, F0001-0703, Z104478072, 18FEB650-7573-4EA0-B0CD-9D8BED766547, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid Solution in Acetonitrile, 1000?g/mL, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid Solution in Acetonitrile, 1000mug/mL, (RS)-2-Ethylhexansαure;2-Ethyl-1-hexanoic acid;2-Ethyl-1-hexanoicacid;2-BUTYLBUTANOIC ACID;(+/-)-2-ETHYLHEXANOIC ACID;2-ETHYLHEXOIC ACID;2-ETHYLCAPROIC ACID;2-ETHYLCAPRONIC ACID
Stannous dioctoate is an organotin compound widely used as a versatile catalyst in polymerization and esterification processes.
Stannous dioctoate is typically supplied as a clear to pale yellow, viscous liquid with a faint characteristic odor, and it is soluble in many organic solvents such as alcohols, esters, and hydrocarbons.
Chemically, Stannous dioctoate consists of a tin(II) center coordinated with two 2-ethylhexanoate ligands, giving it both lipophilic and reactive properties.
Stannous dioctoate is most prominently employed as a catalyst in the production of polyurethanes, where it accelerates the reaction between isocyanates and polyols, ensuring controlled curing and desirable foam properties.
In addition, Stannous dioctoate is used in the synthesis of biodegradable polyesters, silicone crosslinking reactions, and esterification of organic acids and alcohols, owing to its strong Lewis acid behavior.
Stannous dioctoate's efficiency, solubility, and compatibility with diverse systems make it an essential specialty chemical across the plastics, coatings, adhesives, and biomedical polymer industries.
However, as an organotin compound, Stannous dioctoate must be handled with care due to its potential toxicity and environmental hazards, requiring adherence to proper storage, handling, and personal protection protocols.
Stannous dioctoate is the octaoate or 2-ethylhexanoate salt of tin.
Stannous dioctoate is a salt of tin.
The clear yellow liquid is soluble in most organic solvents, but practically insoluble in water.
Stannous dioctoate serves primarily as a catalyst in various polymerization processes, particularly in the production of polyurethanes and polyesters.
Produced by the reaction of Stannous dioctoate is a clear colorless liquid at room temperature, though often appears yellow due to impurities, likely resulting from oxidation of Sn(II) to Sn(IV).
Stannous dioctoate is sometimes used as a catalyst for ring-opening polymerization, such as for the production of polylactic acid.
Stannous dioctoate is an organotin compound widely utilized in various industrial applications.
Chemically, it is the Stannous dioctoate, with the molecular formula C₁₆H₃₀O₄Sn and a molecular weight of approximately 405.11 g/mol.
Stannous dioctoate typically appears as a clear, colorless to yellowish liquid, possessing a density of about 1.251 g/mL at 25°C and a flash point exceeding 110°C (230°F) .
One of the primary applications of Stannous dioctoate is as a catalyst in the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters, such as lactide and glycolide, to produce biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA).
This process is significant in the manufacturing of environmentally friendly plastics used in packaging, medical devices
Stannous dioctoate has application as a gelling agent in the production of exible polyurethane block foam acting as a catalyst.
In addition, Stannous dioctoate catalyzes esterication reactions and show a high activity.
In silicone chemistry, Stannous dioctoate catalyzes silanol condensation reactions to produce RTV silicones, which are mainly used as sealants in the automotive sector or similar applications.
Stannous dioctoate can be used as a catalyst in systems based on polyurethanes or silicone resins.
The addition of the tin compound leads to reduced curing times.
In addition, Stannous dioctoate can be used as a cocatalyst together with amino catalysts to control the blowing reaction.
Thanks to their high activity, Stannous dioctoate catalysts are used extensively in a verity of adhesives and sealants as well as varnishes and coatings.
Stannous dioctoate impregnated silica in urethane powders are used for powder coating, the resulting coatings being resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Stannous dioctoate is the octaoate or 2-ethylhexanoate salt of tin.
Produced by the reaction of Stannous dioctoate, it is a clear colorless liquid at room temperature, though often appears yellow due to impurities, likely resulting from oxidation of Sn(II) to Sn(IV).
Stannous dioctoate is sometimes used as a catalyst for ring-opening polymerization, such as for the production of polylactic acid.
Stannous dioctoate serves as a catalyst in the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters, such as lactide and glycolide, to produce biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA).
This process is significant in manufacturing environmentally friendly plastics used in packaging, medical devices, and other applications.
Stannous dioctoate is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a mild odor.
Stannous dioctoate will burn though 2-Ethylhexanoic acid may take some effort to ignite.
Stannous dioctoate is slightly soluble in water.
Stannous dioctoate is corrosive to metals and tissue.
Stannous dioctoate is used to make paint dryers and plasticizers.
Stannous dioctoate is a carboxylic acid.
Stannous dioctoate donate hydrogen ions if a base is present to accept them.
They react in this way with all bases, both organic (for example, the amines) and inorganic.
Their reactions with bases, called "neutralizations", are accompanied by the evolution of substantial amounts of heat.
Neutralization between an acid and a base produces water plus a salt.
Stannous dioctoates with six or fewer carbon atoms are freely or moderately soluble in water; those with more than six carbons are slightly soluble in water.
Soluble carboxylic acid dissociate to an extent in water to yield hydrogen ions.
The pH of solutions of carboxylic acids is therefore less than 7.0.
Many insolubleStannous dioctoate react rapidly with aqueous solutions containing a chemical base and dissolve as the neutralization generates a soluble salt.
Stannous dioctoate in aqueous solution and liquid or molten carboxylic acids can react with active metals to form gaseous hydrogen and a metal salt.
Such reactions occur in principle for solid carboxylic acids as well, but are slow if the solid acid remains dry.
Even "insoluble" carboxylic acids may absorb enough water from the air and dissolve sufficiently in 2-Ethylhexanoic acid to corrode or dissolve iron, steel, and aluminum parts and containers.
Stannous dioctoate, like other acids, react with cyanide salts to generate gaseous hydrogen cyanide.
Stannous dioctoate, especially in aqueous solution, also react with sulfites, nitrites, thiosulfates (to give H2S and SO3), dithionites (SO2), to generate flammable and/or toxic gases and heat.
Their reaction with carbonates and bicarbonates generates a harmless gas (carbon dioxide) but still heat.
Like other organic compounds, carboxylic acids can be oxidized by strong oxidizing agents and reduced by strong reducing agents.
These reactions generate heat. A wide variety of products is possible.
Like other acids, carboxylic acids may initiate polymerization reactions; like other acids, they often catalyze (increase the rate of) chemical reactions.
Stannous dioctoate, also known as stannous octoate, is a widely used organotin compound with diverse applications across various industries.
Stannous dioctoates versatility stems from its chemical properties, making it valuable in polymerization processes, foam production, and as an industrial additive.
In the production of polyurethane foams, Stannous dioctoate acts as a catalyst, facilitating the gelling reaction essential for foam formation.
Stannous dioctoate ensures the proper expansion and curing of the foam, which is utilized in insulation, cushioning, and other applications.
Stannous dioctoate is employed in the synthesis of silicone resins, acting as a catalyst in the condensation of silanol groups to form RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing) silicones.
These silicones are commonly used as sealants in the automotive and construction industries.
Stannous dioctoate functions as a stabilizer in transformer oils, enhancing their thermal and oxidative stability.
This application is crucial in maintaining the performance and longevity of electrical transformers.
Beyond its catalytic roles, Stannous dioctoate is utilized as a lubricant and additive in various industrial processes, contributing to improved product performance and durability.
Stannous dioctoate is an organometallic compound belonging to the family of tin carboxylates, where the tin atom in the +2 oxidation state is bonded to 2-ethylhexanoate ligands.
Stannous dioctoate is typically encountered as a clear to pale yellow, viscous liquid with a faint, oily odor, and exhibits good solubility in many organic solvents, including esters, alcohols, and hydrocarbons.
Structurally, Stannous dioctoate combines the Lewis acidic properties of tin(II) with the lipophilic nature of the 2-ethylhexanoate groups, making it both chemically reactive and compatible with nonpolar and moderately polar environments.
Stannous dioctoate's most notable industrial use is as a catalyst in polyurethane production, where it accelerates the critical reaction between isocyanates and polyols, thereby regulating foam rise, density, curing speed, and final material properties.
This role has made stannous octoate one of the most widely used catalysts in flexible and rigid polyurethane foams, elastomers, sealants, and coatings.
Beyond polyurethanes, Stannous dioctoate is also utilized in the esterification and transesterification of carboxylic acids and alcohols, in the synthesis of biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA), and in the crosslinking of silicones for sealants and medical-grade elastomers.
Stannous dioctoate's catalytic versatility stems from the ability of the tin(II) center to coordinate with oxygen-containing substrates, lowering activation energies and enhancing reaction efficiency.
Furthermore, Stannous dioctoate offers advantages such as high selectivity, good solubility in resin systems, and compatibility with a broad range of formulation components.
Market Overview of Stannous Dioctoate:
The global market for Stannous dioctoate is steadily expanding, driven by its critical role as a catalyst in the production of polyurethanes, biodegradable polymers, and silicone elastomers.
Stannous dioctoate’s widespread adoption in industries such as construction, automotive, packaging, adhesives, and medical devices underscores its industrial importance, particularly in applications requiring efficient catalysis and precise control over polymerization reactions.
Demand is further fueled by the growing interest in sustainable materials, including polylactic acid (PLA) and other biodegradable plastics, where stannous octoate remains the preferred catalyst due to its high activity and compatibility with lactide monomers.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific dominates consumption, supported by rapid industrialization, urban infrastructure growth, and strong manufacturing activity, while Europe and North America maintain steady demand driven by specialty chemicals and high-performance materials.
However, regulatory scrutiny surrounding the toxicity and environmental impact of organotin compounds is encouraging innovation toward safer alternatives and optimized formulations, shaping both current usage patterns and long-term market trends.
Overall, the market outlook for Stannous dioctoate reflects a balance between growing demand in advanced material applications and increasing environmental, health, and regulatory pressures, which are pushing manufacturers toward more sustainable practices and controlled use.
Uses of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stannous dioctoate is used in the preparation of metal derivatives, which act as a catalyst in polymerization reactions.
For example, tin 2-ethylhexanoate is used in the manufacturing of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid).
Stannous dioctoate is also used as a stabilizer for polyvinyl chlorides.
Stannous dioctoate is also involved in solvent extraction and dye granulation.
Further, Stannous dioctoate is used to prepare plasticizers, lubricants, detergents, flotation aids, corrosion inhibitors and alkyd resins.
In addition to this, Stannous dioctoate serves as a catalyst for polyurethane foaming.
2-Ethylhexanoic acid can be used as a reactant in esterification , decarboxylative alkynylation , and preparation of alkyl coumarins via decarboxylative coupling reactions.
In the organocatalytic medium for the preparation of various 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones/thiones by Biginelli reaction.
Stannous dioctoates of light metals are used to convert some mineral oils to greases.
Stannous dioctoates esters are used as plasticizers.
Stannous dioctoate is extensively used as a catalyst in the polymer industry, particularly in the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters such as lactide and glycolide.
This catalytic action facilitates the formation of biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), which are highly valued for their environmentally friendly properties and are commonly used in applications ranging from packaging materials to medical devices.
In the production of polyurethane foams, Stannous dioctoate plays a critical role as a catalyst that promotes the gelling and curing reactions necessary for foam formation.
The resulting polyurethane foams are widely employed in insulation, cushioning, automotive interiors, and furniture, providing both structural support and comfort.
Furthermore, Stannous dioctoate acts as a catalyst in the synthesis of silicone resins by accelerating the condensation reactions of silanol groups.
The RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing) silicones produced through this process find extensive use as durable sealants and adhesives in the automotive, construction, and electronics industries, where they provide excellent thermal stability and resistance to environmental factors.
Beyond its catalytic applications, Stannous dioctoate is utilized as a stabilizer in transformer oils, where it enhances the thermal and oxidative stability of these oils, thus prolonging the life and efficiency of electrical transformers.
Additionally, Stannous dioctoate serves as a lubricant additive in various industrial processes, contributing to improved wear resistance and operational longevity of machinery and equipment.
Stannous dioctoate is susceptible to hydrolysis and oxidation and cannot be used in combination polyethers (premixes).
Stannous dioctoate's catalytic activity is higher than that of dibutyltin dilaurate.
Stannous dioctoate can be used as a catalyst for polyurethane, mainly in the production of soft block polyether type polyurethane foam, but also as a catalyst for polyurethane coatings, elastomers, room temperature curing silicone rubber, etc.
Stannous dioctoate is a divalent tin compound, it may be oxidized to tetravalent tin compound itself after foaming, and it remains in the foam body to play the role of an antioxidant, which stays in the foam after foaming and has no adverse eect on the foam performance.
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following products: adhesives and sealants, coating products, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay, polymers and lubricants and greases.
Stannous dioctoate can be found in complex articles, with no release intended: vehicles and machinery, mechanical appliances and electrical/electronic products (e.g. computers, cameras, lamps, refrigerators, washing machines).
Stannous dioctoate can be found in products with material based on: plastic (e.g. food packaging and storage, toys, mobile phones), fabrics, textiles and apparel (e.g. clothing, mattress, curtains or carpets, textile toys) and rubber (e.g. tyres, shoes, toys).
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following products: polymers, adhesives and sealants, coating products, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay, lubricants and greases and metal working fluids.
Stannous dioctoate has an industrial use resulting in manufacture of another substance (use of intermediates).
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following areas: mining, formulation of mixtures and/or re-packaging and building & construction work.
Stannous dioctoate is used for the manufacture of: and plastic products.
Other release to the environment of Stannous dioctoate is likely to occur from: indoor use (e.g. machine wash liquids/detergents, automotive care products, paints and coating or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners), outdoor use and indoor use in close systems with minimal release (e.g. cooling liquids in refrigerators, oil-based electric heaters).
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following products: polymers, adhesives and sealants, coating products, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay and pH regulators and water treatment products.
Stannous dioctoate has an industrial use resulting in manufacture of another substance (use of intermediates).
Release to the environment of Stannous dioctoate can occur from industrial use: formulation of mixtures, formulation in materials, in processing aids at industrial sites, in the production of articles, as an intermediate step in further manufacturing of another substance (use of intermediates), as processing aid and as processing aid.
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following products: polymers, adhesives and sealants, coating products, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay and pH regulators and water treatment products.
Stannous dioctoate has an industrial use resulting in manufacture of another substance (use of intermediates).
Stannous dioctoate is used in the following areas: mining, building & construction work and formulation of mixtures and/or re-packaging.
Stannous dioctoate is used for the manufacture of: plastic products, furniture, chemicals and .
Release to the environment of Stannous dioctoate can occur from industrial use: in the production of articles, in processing aids at industrial sites, as processing aid and as processing aid.
Stannous dioctoate is used as a polymerization initiator in polylactic acid production.
Stannous dioctoate acts as an intermediate as well as a catalyst for urethane foams, lubricants, addition agents and stabilizers for transformer oils.
Applications of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stannous dioctoate finds widespread applications across multiple industries due to its highly effective catalytic properties.
In the polyurethane sector, Stannous dioctoate is indispensable for the manufacture of flexible and rigid foams, coatings, sealants, elastomers, and adhesives, where it ensures precise control over curing speed, foam density, and mechanical strength.
In biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, Stannous dioctoate serves as the catalyst of choice for producing polylactic acid (PLA) and other biodegradable polymers, which are used in resorbable sutures, controlled drug delivery systems, and implantable medical devices.
In the silicone industry, stannous octoate is widely applied in the production of silicone elastomers, sealants, and encapsulants, including medical-grade silicones that require strict curing reliability and biocompatibility.
Stannous dioctoate also finds use in polyester and alkyd resin production, where it accelerates esterification and transesterification reactions, enhancing efficiency in the manufacture of coatings, varnishes, and inks.
Additionally, Stannous dioctoate's role extends to lubricants, stabilizers, and specialty chemical synthesis, making it a versatile catalyst that supports applications in automotive, electronics, packaging, construction, and healthcare industries.
Benefits of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stannous dioctoate offers multiple benefits that make it a catalyst of choice in industrial and biomedical applications.
One of Stannous dioctoate's key advantages is its high catalytic efficiency, which allows faster reaction rates in polyurethane, polyester, and silicone systems, thereby reducing energy consumption and production time.
Stannous dioctoate's solubility in a wide range of organic solvents ensures easy incorporation into different formulations, improving processing flexibility.
In polyurethane foams and elastomers, the catalyst provides excellent control over curing speed, foam structure, and mechanical strength, enabling the manufacture of materials with tailored density, resilience, and durability.
In biodegradable polymer synthesis, especially PLA production, stannous octoate is valued for Stannous dioctoate's ability to produce high-molecular-weight polymers with good mechanical and thermal properties, supporting the development of sustainable packaging and medical-grade biomaterials.
Another benefit is its compatibility with silicone curing systems, where it promotes uniform cross-linking and high-performance elastomers suitable for both industrial and healthcare applications.
Economically, Stannous dioctoate's versatility across multiple reaction types—including esterification, transesterification, and condensation—reduces the need for multiple catalysts, simplifying processes and lowering costs.
Furthermore, compared to some heavy metal catalysts, Stannous dioctoate is relatively less toxic and has a more favorable regulatory profile in medical applications, making it a preferred choice in sensitive industries.
Production of Stannous Dioctoate:
Production of Stannous dioctoate typically involves the reaction of stannous oxide (SnO) or stannous chloride (SnCl₂) with 2-ethylhexanoic acid under controlled conditions.
The process is usually carried out in an inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation of tin(II) to tin(IV), since stannous salts are air-sensitive.
The acid reacts with stannous oxide in a neutralization reaction, producing the desired stannous octoate along with water as a by-product, which is removed to drive the reaction forward.
Alternatively, stannous chloride can be treated with 2-ethylhexanoic acid in the presence of a neutralizing agent, producing the ester salt while releasing hydrochloric acid, which must be carefully managed to avoid corrosion.
Stannous dioctoate is then purified by vacuum distillation or solvent extraction to achieve high purity, low residual acidity, and a controlled tin content suitable for industrial and biomedical applications.
Commercially, the process is optimized to yield a clear, slightly yellow liquid with standardized metal content, ensuring consistent catalytic performance across different applications.
Production facilities also emphasize strict handling controls due to Stannous dioctoate’s sensitivity to oxygen and moisture, as well as safety protocols to minimize worker exposure.
Synthesis of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stannous dioctoate is typically synthesized by ligand exchange/neutralization of a tin(II) precursor with 2-ethylhexanoic acid (EHA) under anhydrous, inert conditions to prevent oxidation to Sn(IV). A common route reacts stannous oxide (SnO) with 2 equiv EHA in an aromatic solvent (toluene/xylene) at 90–130 °C, removing the by-product water azeotropically (Dean–Stark) to drive completion:
SnO + 2 C₇H₁₅COOH → Sn(O₂CC₇H₁₅)₂ + H₂O.
Alternatively, stannous chloride (SnCl₂) is converted via salt metathesis using the preformed carboxylate (e.g., sodium 2-ethylhexanoate), liberating NaCl that is filtered off:
SnCl₂ + 2 NaO₂CC₇H₁₅ → Sn(O₂CC₇H₁₅)₂ + 2 NaCl.
Less commonly, stannous carbonate (SnCO₃) or basic stannous salts are used with 2 EHA, releasing CO₂/H₂O that are vented; all variants benefit from nitrogen blanketing, dry solvent, and a mild reducing hold (trace Sn powder or ascorbate) if air ingress is a risk.
Crude product is polished by hot filtration, then vacuum stripping to low acid value and specified %Sn, yielding a clear, pale yellow liquid.
Process controls include Karl Fischer moisture (to avoid hydrolysis), acid value (free EHA), chloride (for SnCl₂ routes), and Sn(II)/Sn(IV) ratio (iodometric), ensuring high catalytic activity for PU/PLA/silicone applications.
History of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stannous dioctoate was first developed in the mid-20th century during the rapid expansion of the polymer and plastics industry, when the search for efficient organometallic catalysts intensified.
Stannous dioctoate's use gained prominence in the 1950s–1960s, when it was introduced as one of the most effective catalysts for polyurethane foam production, enabling controlled reaction rates between polyols and isocyanates and thus supporting the commercialization of flexible and rigid foams for furniture, insulation, and automotive applications.
In parallel, Stannous dioctoate became widely adopted in ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters such as lactide and glycolide, helping to establish industrial-scale production of biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), which later became central to sustainable packaging and biomedical devices.
Over time, stannous octoate also found applications in silicone curing, esterification, and transesterification processes, further consolidating its role as a versatile catalyst.
Stannous dioctoate's long industrial track record, combined with relatively high activity and manageable handling properties, has made it one of the most studied and commercially relevant tin-based carboxylates, and it continues to be a reference compound in both academic research and industrial polymer chemistry.
Handling and Storage of Stannous Dioctoate:
Handle in a well-ventilated area; avoid inhalation of vapors and contact with skin or eyes.
Store in tightly sealed containers, protected from moisture, air, and direct sunlight, as Stannous dioctoate can oxidize and hydrolyze.
Keep away from acids, oxidizing agents, and strong bases, which may cause hazardous reactions.
Recommended storage temperature: cool, dry place (15–25 °C), away from ignition sources.
Stability and Reactivity of Stannous Dioctoate:
Stable under normal storage conditions if protected from air and moisture.
Reacts with water slowly, forming tin oxides/hydroxides and 2-ethylhexanoic acid.
Oxidizes in air to Sn(IV) compounds, which may reduce catalytic efficiency.
Incompatible with strong oxidizers (risk of violent reaction) and acids/bases (may decompose).
Decomposition releases irritating fumes of organic acids and tin oxides.
First Aid Measures of Stannous Dioctoate:
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air, keep at rest, seek medical attention if irritation or respiratory symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Wash immediately with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting; seek medical advice immediately.
Firefighting Measures of Stannous Dioctoate:
Flammability:
Combustible liquid; not highly flammable but can burn if exposed to high heat.
Suitable extinguishing media:
Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray.
Fire may produce toxic fumes of tin oxides and carbon compounds.
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing.
Accidental Release Measures of Stannous Dioctoate:
Evacuate area, ensure good ventilation.
Wear protective equipment (gloves, goggles, respirator if needed).
Contain and absorb spill with inert material (sand, diatomaceous earth, vermiculite).
Prevent entry into drains, surface water, or soil.
Collect in suitable labeled containers for disposal according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of Stannous Dioctoate:
Engineering controls:
Use fume hoods, local exhaust, or general ventilation to minimize vapor exposure.
Respiratory protection:
Use approved respirators if airborne concentrations exceed limits.
Skin protection:
Wear nitrile or neoprene gloves, protective clothing.
Eye/face protection:
Safety goggles or face shield.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands after handling, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during use.
Identifiers of Stannous Dioctoate:
Chemical Name: Stannous dioctoate
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₀O₄Sn
Molecular Weight: 405.1 g/mol
CAS Number: 301-10-0
EC Number (EINECS): 206-108-6
UN Number: Not classified as dangerous for transport in many jurisdictions, but may be regulated depending on concentration and packaging
HS Code (Customs Tariff): 29215990 (varies regionally; often under "organo-tin compounds")
InChI: InChI=1S/2C8H15O2.Sn/c21-3-4-5-6-7-8(2)9;/h28H,3-7H2,1-2H3;/q;;+2/p-2
InChI Key: OWHWUGXHIVQBQJ-UHFFFAOYSA-L
SMILES: CC(CCCCC)C(=O)[O-].CC(CCCCC)C(=O)[O-].[Sn+2]
IUPAC Name: Tin(2+); bis(2-ethylhexanoate)
CAS Registry Number: 301-10-0
EC / EINECS Number: 206-108-6
UNII (FDA Unique Ingredient Identifier): M5Z9GQ2Q9V
PubChem CID: 3032847
ChemSpider ID: 2297287
RTECS Number: XR9837000
Beilstein Registry Number: 1979783
MDL Number: MFCD00044823
HS / Customs Code: 29215990 (Organo-tin compounds, varies by region)
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₀O₄Sn
Molecular Weight: 405.1 g/mol
InChI: InChI=1S/2C8H15O2.Sn/c2*1-3-4-5-6-7-8(2)9;/h2*8H,3-7H2,1-2H3;/q;;+2/p-2
InChI Key: OWHWUGXHIVQBQJ-UHFFFAOYSA-L
Canonical SMILES: CC(CCCCC)C(=O)[O-].CC(CCCCC)C(=O)[O-].[Sn+2]
Properties of Stannous Dioctoate:
Chemical Formula: C₁₆H₃₀O₄Sn
Molecular Weight: 405.11 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, pale yellow to amber liquid
Odor: Mild, characteristic (slightly fatty/ester-like)
Density (20 °C): ~1.25 – 1.30 g/cm³
Refractive Index (n20/D): ~1.493 – 1.505
Viscosity (25 °C): Moderate (liquid with oil-like consistency)
Melting Point: Not well-defined (liquid at room temperature, may solidify below 15 °C)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling (>200 °C)
Flash Point (Closed Cup): ~113 – 125 °C
Auto-ignition Temperature: ~350 °C
Solubility (Water): Practically insoluble (hydrophobic)
Solubility (Organic solvents): Soluble in hydrocarbons, alcohols, esters, ketones, and chlorinated solvents
pH (aqueous suspension): Slightly acidic to neutral (depends on hydrolysis)
Stability: Sensitive to oxidation and hydrolysis in presence of moisture
Vapor Pressure (20 °C): Very low (negligible volatility)
Partition Coefficient (log Kow): >3 (lipophilic)
Hazard Classification: Flammable liquid, skin/eye irritant, harmful if inhaled or swallowed
Shelf Life: Typically 6–12 months in sealed containers under inert conditions
Melting point: -59 °C
Boiling point: 228 °C (lit.)
Density: 0.906
Vapor density: 4.98 (vs air)
Vapor pressure: <0.01 mm Hg (20 °C)
Refractive index: n20/D 1.425 (lit.)
Flash point: 230 °F
Storage temp.: Store below +30 °C
Solubility: 1.4 g/L
Form: Liquid
pKa: pK1: 4.895 (25°C)
Color: Clear
pH: 3 (1.4 g/L, H2O, 20°C)
Odor: Mild odour
pH Range: 3 at 1.4 g/L at 20 °C
Biological source: Synthetic
Viscosity: 7.73 cps
Explosive limit: 1.04%, 135°F
Water solubility: 2 g/L (20°C)
BRN: 1750468
Exposure limits: ACGIH: TWA 5 mg/m³
Stability: Stable. Combustible. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, reducing agents, bases.
InChIKey: OBETXYAYXDNJHR-UHFFFAOYSA-N
LogP: 2.7 at 25°C