Epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) is a modified vegetable oil produced from soybean oil through an epoxidation process. During this process, the chemical structure of the oil is altered and epoxy groups are introduced, which significantly improve its physical and chemical properties. This material is a pale, viscous liquid and is widely recognized as one of the most important non-toxic additives in the PVC industry, functioning both as a plasticizer and a secondary stabilizer at the same time.
Due to its modified structure, this product has excellent compatibility with PVC and shows high stability during processing and use. One of the key characteristics of epoxidized soybean oil is its low volatility and very low migration, which prevents it from leaving the product over time and helps maintain final quality. In addition, its high thermal stability and good resistance to UV light enhance the durability of PVC products against heat, sunlight, and environmental conditions. These properties ultimately improve mechanical strength, weather resistance, and electrical performance.
From a functional perspective, epoxidized soybean oil is not only a simple plasticizer but also acts as a secondary stabilizer. During PVC degradation, hydrochloric acid (HCl) is released, and this material can absorb and neutralize it, preventing further polymer degradation and extending product lifespan. Its non-toxic nature, plant-based origin, and biodegradability make it an environmentally friendly option, especially for applications involving direct human contact or food-related uses.
Epoxidized soybean oil is widely used in PVC products such as food packaging films, medical products, PVC sheets and films, pipes, fittings, gaskets, refrigerator sealing strips, artificial leather, flooring materials, plastic wall coverings, electrical wires and cables, and other everyday plastic products. It is also used in special printing inks, coatings, oil paints, synthetic rubber, adhesives, and liquid stabilizer systems, where it improves flexibility, adhesion, stability, and overall performance.
“ Epoxy soybean oil is available in different grades ”
| Bulk Density g/l | 994 kg/m3 |
| Oxirane Oxygen Value | 6.5(± 0.1) |
| Iodine value | 2.5(Max) |
| Acid value mg KOH/g | 0.8(Max) |
| Water content % | 0.1(Max) |
| Sp.Gr. at 27 ℃ | 0.94-0.99 |
| R.I. at 27 ℃ | 1.470-1.472 |
| Turbidity point | -8℃ |
| Flash point ℃ | ≥ 280 |
| Appearance | liquid |