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As a triple ester of trimellitic acid, trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) belongs to the group of carboxylic acid esters and is mainly used in industry as a plasticizer in products made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The compound is obtained from trimellitic anhydride and 2-ethylhexanol in an acid catalyzed esterification process.
Due to its high temperature resistance, low volatility and harmlessness to health, trioctyl trimellitate is suitable as a plasticizer for special applications and mainly replaces phthalates there. The substance is used, among other things, in the manufacture of plastic parts for automobile production, cable insulation and hoses, but also in health-sensitive medical products.
At PENPET you can order the required amount of trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) in an uncomplicated and sustainable way. We look forward to receiving your inquiry for an individual offer. Delivered as liquid in tank containers or packed in IBCs and drums.
CAS no. 3319-31-1
EINECS no. 222-020-0
Molecular formula: C33H54O6
Synonyms: TOTM, Tris(2-ethylhexyl)trimellitate, Tris(2-ethylhexyl) 1,2,4-benzenetricarboxylate, Tris(2-ethylhexyl)benzene-1,2,4-tricarboxylate, Triethylhexyl Trimellitate
Areas of application: Used as a plasticizer in products made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethyl cellulose, chloroethylene, polymethyl methacrylate and methyl acrylate
As an ester of trimellitic acid, trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) has a complex structure with the phenyl ring of this acid at its center. Trioctyl trimellitate is thus an aromatic compound. The three carboxylic acid groups of trimellitic acid have been replaced by ester groups in the course of esterification, which connect the phenyl structure to an alcoholic 2-ethylhexanol radical. Due to the different possibilities for the spatial arrangement of its chemical bonds, trioctyl trimellitate is present as a mixture of eight different stereoisomeric variants, which arise side by side during production.
Trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) is a clear, yellowish liquid with an oily consistency. The compound is practically insoluble in water, slightly soluble in the organic solvents chloroform and methanol. Trioctyl trimellitate is hardly volatile and can therefore also be used in sensitive areas of application.
Trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) is a plasticizer with high stability. The connection is basically combustible, but difficult to ignite and not explosive. When trioctyl trimellitate is burned and thermally decomposed, acrid fumes and noxious gases such as carbon monoxide are released.
Trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) reacts with strong oxidizing agents and acids. This can lead to reactions with intense heat development, so that the reaction products ignite. Explosive hydrogen, among other things, can form in contact with alkali metals and alkali hydrides.
Trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) is not considered a hazardous compound under the GHS classification. The substance is non-toxic due to its high stability, low volatility and insolubility in water. Even swallowing the compound does not cause any serious damage to health. However, direct contact with the skin or eyes should be avoided to protect against slight irritation. Trioctyl trimellitate is considered to be slightly hazardous to water and should not be released into soil, water bodies or waste water.