Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate is a chemical compound, a synthetic ester derived from neoglycol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• "Neopentyl Glycol" is a di-alcohol, a molecule with two alcohol groups.
• "Diethylhexanoate" is an ester derived from diethylhexanoic acid. "Di" indicates that there are two ester groups attached to the neopentyl glycol.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Neopentyl glycol - A diol used as part of the esterification reaction.
• 2-Ethylhexanoic acid - The carboxylic acid used in the esterification reaction.
• Catalyst agents - Usually acids like sulfuric acid or p-toluenesulfonic acid which expedite the esterification process.

Step-by-step summary of industrial chemical synthesis process

• Raw material preparation - Neopentyl glycol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid are purified and prepared.
• Esterification Reaction - Neopentyl glycol reacts with 2-ethylhexanoic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst to form Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate.
• Neutralization - Any residues of acid catalysts are neutralized, typically with a base.
• Purification - The product is purified from impurities through methods like distillation.
• Quality Control - The produced Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate is tested to ensure it meets the desired specifications.

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss.  Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

Commercial applications

Cosmetics. Used to enhance product feel and texture, giving a velvety touch.

Skincare Products. Incorporated into creams, lotions, and serums as an emollient, imparting softness and smoothness to the skin.

Makeup Products. Employed in foundations, concealers, and other cosmetic products for its ability to improve spreadability and skin feel.

Haircare Products. Added to conditioners and hair treatments to provide softness and improve combability.

Sunscreen Products. Used in sunscreens for its ability to enhance product spread on the skin.

• Molecular Formula  C₂₁H₄₀O₄
• Molecular Weight  356.5 g/mol
• CAS  28510-23-8
• UNII    U68ZV6W62C
• EC Number  250-575-9

Synonyms:

• Neopentyl glycol di(2-ethylhexoate)

References_____________________________________________________________________

Buyuktimkin, T. (2020). Water titration studies on microemulsions with a nonionic surfactant derived from castor oil and a series of polar oils. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, 56, 101521.

Bährle-Rapp, M., & Bährle-Rapp, M. (2007). Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate. Springer Lexikon Kosmetik und Körperpflege, 375-375.

Buyuktimkin, T. (2020). Apparent molal volumes and hydration numbers from viscosity studies for microemulsions with a nonionic surfactant derived from castor oil and a series of polar oils. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 603, 125244.

Montiel, M. C., Máximo, F., Serrano‐Arnaldos, M., Ortega‐Requena, S., Murcia, M. D., & Bastida, J. (2019). Biocatalytic solutions to cyclomethicones problem in cosmetics. Engineering in Life Sciences, 19(5), 370-388.