2-Ethylhexyl chloroformate is an alkyl chloroformate used primarily in organic synthesis for the preparation of carbonates and carbamates. It reacts with alcohols to form alkyl carbonates and with amines to form carbamates, which serve as useful protecting groups or intermediates. Commonly employed in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals where selective protection or carbonylation is required. Its liquid form and solubility in organic solvents facilitate its use in laboratory and industrial-scale reactions. Not typically used for direct activation of carboxylic acids.