DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate)CAS 117-81-7
The most-studied and most-toxic phthalate — REACH SVHC Category 1B reproductive toxicant.
Toxic Chemical Databases
Substance-specific listings — these flags are for DEHP alone, not for the broader family.
Chemical Type
Branched-Chain C8 Phthalate Plasticizer
Chemical Description
DEHP has been the dominant flexible-PVC plasticizer for half a century and remains the reference compound in every phthalate risk assessment. Its metabolite MEHP is the active anti-androgen — it depresses fetal testosterone synthesis, producing the 'phthalate syndrome' of reproductive tract malformations in male offspring. EU REACH classifies DEHP as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant and an endocrine disruptor; CPSC bans it from children's toys and childcare articles above 0.1%. EPA TSCA has it on the high-priority risk evaluation list.
Biological Activity
Severity scores specific to this substance, NOT the parent family average. Differences between siblings are real and meaningful.
Top Health Consequences
- Phthalate syndrome — anti-androgen reproductive tract effects in male offspring
- Reduced anogenital distance in prenatally exposed boys
- Reduced sperm count and quality in adults
- Asthma incidence increase with childhood exposure
- Metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance signals
Pathways of Exposure
- Ingestion of house dust loaded with leached DEHP (primary route for infants)
- Dermal absorption from vinyl flooring and wall covering
- Diet — migration from PVC food-contact tubing and wrap
- Medical exposure from PVC IV bags and tubing
Building Materials with DEHP
Listed alphabetically — product categories where this specific substance appears.
Artificial Leather & Vinyl Upholstery
Flexible PVC Medical Tubing
Resilient Vinyl Sheet Flooring
Vinyl Wall Coverings
Vinyl Window Profiles