Diethyl Glycol (DEG)
Diethyl Glycol is a clear, colorless, hygroscopic, and viscous liquid with a mild odor. It is a diol with two hydroxyl groups, making it a versatile chemical intermediate and solvent. DEG is miscible with water, alcohols, and many organic solvents. It is widely used in the manufacture of plasticizers, solvents, resins, and as an intermediate in chemical syntheses. Due to its high boiling point and solvent properties, DEG finds broad applications across industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors.
Diethyl Glycol (DEG) Uses
Primary UsesÂ
- Industrial Solvent
- Used as a solvent and co-solvent in paints, inks, dyes, resins, and adhesives due to its excellent solvency and compatibility with many materials.
- Functions as a humectant in industrial processes to retain moisture and improve product texture.
- Plasticizer Production
- Serves as a key raw material in synthesizing plasticizers, particularly for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, improving flexibility and durability.
- Chemical Intermediate
- Used in the synthesis of polyester resins, plasticizers, and lubricants.
- Important intermediate in producing brake fluids and antifreeze formulations.
- Pharmaceutical & Cosmetic Applications
- Used as a solvent and humectant in some pharmaceutical preparations and personal care products.
- Occasionally employed in topical formulations and lotions as a moisturizing agent.
- Printing Industry
- Employed in printing inks as a solvent to improve drying times and gloss.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Textile Industry
- Used as a humectant and softening agent in textile finishing.
- Electronics Industry
- Utilized as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing electronic components.
- Laboratory Applications
- Serves as a solvent and reagent in chemical laboratories for organic synthesis.
- Household Products
Found in some cleaning agents and detergents as a solvent and moisture-retaining additive.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Diethylene glycol
- Common/Trade Name: Diethyl Glycol, DEG
- CAS Number: 111-46-6
- HS Code: 2905.44.00
- Molecular Formula: C4H10O3
- Synonyms:
- Diethylene glycol
- DEG
- Ethylene glycol diethyl ether (less common)
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Clear, colorless viscous liquid
- Odor: Mild, sweetish
- Boiling Point: 245°C (approximate)
- Melting Point: -10°C
- Density: Approx. 1.118 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohols, and many organic solvents
- Vapor Pressure: Low at room temperature
- Stability: Stable under normal storage; avoid strong oxidizers
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Harmful if swallowed; may cause damage to organs through prolonged exposure
- Toxicity: Moderate acute toxicity; ingestion can be fatal
- Exposure Limits: Follow OSHA/NIOSH guidelines
- Flammability: Combustible liquid with flash point around 111°C
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place
- Container Type: Steel drums or HDPE containers
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use PPE; avoid ingestion and inhalation; prevent spills
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Registered under REACH and other chemical inventories worldwide
- Listed as a toxic chemical in some regulations due to toxicity concerns
- Strict control in pharmaceutical and food-related applications
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Moderately toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release to waterways
- Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Low potential
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Lab coat or protective apron
- Respiratory protection if ventilation is poor
Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact
- Use in well-ventilated areas or under fume hood
- Avoid exposure to heat and oxidizing agents
- Prevent spills and environmental release
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly closed and upright
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources
- Avoid contact with incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, acids)
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke when handling product
- Use good industrial hygiene and housekeeping practices
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes; get medical attention
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek emergency medical care immediately
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; emits toxic fumes when burned
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases