Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is an organophosphate ester commonly supplied as a clear, colorless liquid used mainly as a plasticizer, solvent, and performance additive in industrial formulations.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is valued because Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate can improve flexibility, flow, and film formation in polymer systems while also providing some flame-retardant and anti-foam behavior in selected applications.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is widely used in coatings, inks, adhesives, and polymer processing, and Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate performance depends on purity, compatibility with the binder system, dosage, and processing conditions.
CAS Number: 78-51-3
EC Number: 201-122-9
Molecular Formula: C18H39O7P
Molecular Weight: 398.47 g/mol
Synonyms: Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate, Tris(2-Butoxyethyl) Phosphate, TBEP, Tributoxyethyl Phosphate, Phosphoric Acid Tris(2-Butoxyethyl) Ester, Phosphoric Acid Tributoxyethyl Ester, Ethanol 2-Butoxy Phosphate (3:1), Phosflex T-BEP, Plasticizer TBEP, Organophosphate Plasticizer, Tri(2-Butoxyethyl) Phosphate, Butoxyethyl Phosphate Ester, Tri butoxyethyl phosphate, Tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate, TBEP, Tri(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate, Tributoxyethyl phosphate, Phosphoric acid tris(2-butoxyethyl) ester, Tris(butoxyethyl) phosphate, 2-Butoxyethyl phosphate, Triethylene glycol monobutyl ether phosphate, Tris(2-n-butoxyethyl) phosphate, 2-Butoxyethanol phosphate ester, Phosphoric acid tri(2-butoxyethyl) ester, Tri-beta-butoxyethyl phosphate, Tris beta-butoxyethyl phosphate, Phosphate ester TBEP, Trialkyl phosphate TBEP, Butoxyethyl phosphate ester, Butoxyethyl phosphoric ester, Tris(2-butoxyethyl) orthophosphate, Orthophosphoric acid tris(2-butoxyethyl) ester, Phosphoric acid tributoxyethyl ester, Tri butoxy ethyl phosphate, Tri-butoxyethyl phosphate, Tris butoxyethyl phosphate, Tributoxyethyl orthophosphate, Butoxyethanol phosphate, Tri(ethylene glycol monobutyl ether) phosphate
APPLICATIONS
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used as a plasticizer in PVC to improve flexibility, softness, and low-temperature performance.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in flexible vinyl formulations to reduce brittleness and improve elongation.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into PVC compounds to support smoother processing and improved melt flow.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in chlorinated rubber and specialty polymer systems to improve film flexibility and reduce cracking.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into synthetic rubber and elastomer blends to support softness and improved handling.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in nitrile-based systems where compatibility and plasticization are required.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in waterborne acrylic coatings as a coalescing and film-forming aid in compatible formulations.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into architectural coatings to support uniform film formation and improved appearance.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in industrial paints to improve leveling, reduce defects, and enhance flow.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used as a defoaming or foam-control additive in certain coating and ink manufacturing steps.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into high-shear mixing operations to reduce foam persistence and improve process stability.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in pigment dispersions to support wetting and help reduce entrapped air in compatible systems.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in printing inks to adjust viscosity, flow, and film properties in selected formulations.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into gravure and flexographic systems to help balance drying and laydown behavior.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in overprint varnishes to improve smoothness and reduce surface defects.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in adhesives and sealants to improve flexibility and reduce glass-transition related brittleness.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into pressure-sensitive adhesives to tune tack and cohesion in compatible binder systems.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in construction adhesive formulations where plasticization supports durability and crack resistance.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in polymer processing as a formulation aid to improve flow and reduce processing stress in compatible polymers.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into specialty plastics to improve flexibility while maintaining acceptable clarity in suitable systems.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in molded or extruded products where softness and handling are targeted.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in polyurethane and other polymer systems in selected applications to tune flexibility and processing behavior.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into certain resin systems to adjust viscosity and improve application properties.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in composite or filled formulations where improved wetting and dispersion are beneficial.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in textile and paper chemical systems in selected applications as a process aid to support wetting and foam control.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is incorporated into finishing formulations where controlled lubrication and flow are required.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used in industrial cleaning and processing liquids in selected applications as a solvent-like performance additive.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is used when a single additive is expected to provide plasticization plus secondary benefits such as improved flow and reduced foaming in compatible industrial formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used as a plasticizer in PVC to improve flexibility and softness.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports lower glass-transition temperature in vinyl formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve low-temperature performance in flexible PVC compounds.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in vinyl flooring formulations to enhance resilience and processing.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved indentation recovery in some flooring systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve flexibility balance in vinyl tile and sheet products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in wire and cable PVC compounds to improve flexibility and handling.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports easier extrusion and stable processing in some cable recipes.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve bend performance in flexible wire insulation systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in synthetic leather and coated fabric formulations as a plasticizer.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports softness and drape in coated textile products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve adhesion and flexibility in some coating constructions.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in polyurethane systems as a plasticizing additive in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved flexibility and reduced brittleness in some PU coatings.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps adjust hardness and feel in certain polyurethane products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in paints and coatings to improve film flexibility in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports coalescence and reduced cracking in some coating systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve leveling and film integrity under stress in some finishes.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in industrial coatings for metal and wood where flexibility is needed.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved impact resistance in some coating designs.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps reduce microcracking under temperature cycling in some applications.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in printing inks as a plasticizer and flow modifier in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved ink film flexibility and rub resistance in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve pigment wetting and dispersion in certain ink vehicles.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in adhesives to improve flexibility and reduce brittleness in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports better peel performance in selected adhesive systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve tack and workability in some pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in sealants and caulks to improve flexibility in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved joint movement capability in selected sealant systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps reduce cracking and shrink stress in some cured sealants.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used as a flame-retardant additive in certain polymer formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports reduced flammability by contributing phosphorus-based flame retardancy.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve compliance with some fire performance targets when properly formulated.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in flexible foams as an additive for flame retardancy in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved fire performance in selected polyurethane foam applications.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps balance flame retardancy with foam physical properties in some designs.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in textile backcoatings and polymer coatings where flame retardancy is desired in some applications.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved flame resistance in certain coated fabrics.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps maintain flexibility while adding flame retardant function in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in rubber and elastomer compounds as a plasticizing additive in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved processability and flexibility in selected rubber mixes.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps reduce hardness and improve low-temperature properties in some elastomers.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in floor polishes and floor finishes as a leveling and film-forming aid in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved gloss development and smoother appearance in some polish systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve durability and scuff resistance of some floor finish films.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in wax emulsions and maintenance products to improve spread and film properties in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved wetting on surfaces in selected maintenance formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps reduce streaking and improve uniformity in some floor care products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in industrial cleaners and degreasers as a solvent-like additive in some formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports dissolution of certain organic soils in some cleaning systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve cleaning performance on hard surfaces in some products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used as a solvent or coupling agent for resins in some coating and ink formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports compatibility between polar and nonpolar components in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps stabilize formulations by improving component miscibility in some blends.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in PVC plastisol formulations to adjust viscosity and gel behavior in some applications.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports improved flow and leveling in some plastisol coatings.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve flexibility of cured plastisol films in some systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in dip coating and spray coating plastisol processes in some industries.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports smoother coating build and reduced pinholing in some applications.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps improve cured film toughness in some coated parts.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in specialty chemical formulations where phosphate esters provide solvency and plasticization.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports tailoring of viscosity and flexibility in multi-component products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate helps optimize performance where both plasticizer and flame-retardant functions are beneficial.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used in product development to tune flexibility, gloss, and durability targets in coatings and floor finishes.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate supports formulation screening for compatibility with resins and additives.
DESCRIPTION
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is an organophosphate ester built from butoxyethanol-derived groups attached to a phosphate center, and Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate behaves as a relatively low-volatility, oil-like liquid in many formulations.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is typically compatible with many organic binders and plastic systems, but compatibility testing is required because phase separation can occur in some resin or solvent packages.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate can act as a plasticizer by reducing intermolecular forces in polymers, and this effect increases flexibility and lowers brittleness in finished films.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate can also influence surface tension and wetting, and these effects can improve pigment wetting, leveling, and film uniformity in coatings and inks.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate may provide some flame-retardant contribution as an organophosphate additive, but performance depends on the complete formulation and regulatory requirements for the end use.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate should be used according to applicable regulations for the target market because organophosphate additives may have use restrictions depending on product type and region.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate is typically supplied as a clear, colorless liquid, and Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate should be protected from contamination to maintain consistent performance.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate should be stored in tightly closed containers and kept away from strong oxidizers to minimize degradation risk.
Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate should be handled with good industrial hygiene practices because repeated contact can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is an organic phosphate ester commonly known as TBEP in industrial contexts.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is typically supplied as a clear to pale liquid with low odor in many grades.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is used primarily as a plasticizer and, in some systems, as a flame-retardant additive.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate has good compatibility with many polymers and resin systems compared with some alternative plasticizers.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can help improve flexibility, toughness, and low-temperature performance in flexible polymer products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate may also influence viscosity, leveling, and film formation depending on the formulation.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is widely associated with applications in coatings, inks, adhesives, sealants, and floor care formulations.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can support improved gloss and scuff resistance in some floor finish systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can contribute phosphorus content that supports reduced flammability in certain polymer designs.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate performance depends on dosage, resin type, processing temperature, and interactions with other additives.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate should be selected based on compatibility testing to avoid haze, exudation, or instability in finished products.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can be formulated into blends with other plasticizers to achieve specific hardness and migration profiles.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is not intended to be used as a reactive monomer in most applications and typically functions as an additive.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can show limited water solubility and may distribute primarily into organic phases in mixed systems.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate can hydrolyze slowly under strongly acidic or strongly alkaline conditions, depending on exposure.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate should be handled with good industrial hygiene practices to minimize unnecessary exposure.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate should be stored in tightly closed containers to prevent contamination and moisture ingress.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate should be kept away from excessive heat and ignition sources according to standard chemical storage practices.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is valued for multifunctional behavior that combines plasticization with useful solvency and processing effects.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate grade selection typically considers purity, color, odor, and performance consistency.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is commonly supplied for industrial use in drums, IBCs, or bulk deliveries depending on volume.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is often chosen when a balance of flexibility, durability, and formulation compatibility is required.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is considered a versatile additive across plastics, coatings, and maintenance-product industries.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate should be evaluated against local regulatory and application requirements before use.
Tri butoxyethyl phosphate is typically used at optimized low-to-moderate treat rates to achieve target performance without negative side effects.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: C18H39O7P
Molecular Weight: 398.47 g/mol
Common Name: Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate (TBEP)
Chemical Type: Organophosphate ester; plasticizer; process aid; foam-control additive (selected uses)
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild characteristic odor
Solubility: Insoluble to slightly soluble in water; soluble in many organic solvents; miscibility depends on system design
Density: About 1.0 g/cm³ (typical; grade dependent)
Viscosity: Moderate; temperature dependent
Volatility: Relatively low compared with many light solvents (grade dependent)
Stability: Stable under normal storage; avoid strong oxidizers and excessive heat
Storage Temperature: 5–30°C, tightly closed, dry, away from direct sunlight
Shelf Life: Typically 12–36 months in original sealed packaging (supplier dependent)
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air if vapors or mists are inhaled.
Seek medical attention if respiratory irritation persists.
Avoid breathing aerosols during spraying or high-shear operations that generate mist.
Skin Contact:
Wash with soap and water after contact.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Seek medical advice if irritation develops or persists.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do, then continue rinsing.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water and do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention if discomfort occurs or if a significant amount is swallowed.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote is required.
Provide supportive care as needed.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Use appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses.
Avoid prolonged skin contact and avoid splashing into eyes.
Use closed transfer or controlled pouring to reduce mist formation and spills.
Ventilation:
Use general ventilation for normal handling.
Use local exhaust if heating, spraying, or high-speed mixing may generate mists.
Avoid aerosol formation in enclosed spaces without adequate airflow.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
Keep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases that may cause decomposition or incompatibility.
Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat to maintain stable viscosity and quality.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spill and absorb with inert material.
Clean residue promptly because surfaces can become slippery.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations and facility procedures.
Handling Precautions:
Verify compatibility with the binder and solvent package because Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate can plasticize strongly and may soften certain films if overdosed.
Optimize dosage because Tri Butoxyethyl Phosphate can affect drying, hardness, and block resistance in coatings depending on formulation balance.
Rotate stock using FIFO practices to maintain consistent quality and predictable processing performance.