Diethylene glycol (DEG) is an organic compound that is transparent, moisture-absorbing, odorless, and also a colorless, sweet-tasting, oil-like liquid that is hygroscopic. Under normal conditions, it has no particular odor, but in high vapor concentrations, it may have a mild sweet smell. This substance is miscible with water and organic solvents (it can be dissolved in any concentration). Diethylene glycol has two ethylene groups connected by an oxygen atom, and like other dihydric alcohols, it contains two hydroxyl (OH) groups.
This organic compound is flammable and toxic, and it can dissolve in water, alcohol, ether, acetone, and ethylene glycol (EG), which is the simplest member of the glycol family. DEG can react with sulfuric acid, nitric acid, oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, perchloric acid, and other strong acids. It typically plays a key role in the production of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), plastics, acrylic resins, and methacrylate.
Technical Characteristics
| Chemical Formula | C4H10O3 |
| Other names | 2,2′-Oxybis(ethan-1-ol) 2-(2-Hydroxyethoxy) ethan-1-ol Diethylene glycol Ethylene diglycol Diglycol 2,2′-Oxybisethanol 2,2′-Oxydiethanol 3-Oxa-1,5-pentanediol Dihydroxy diethyl ether Digenos Digol |
| CAS Number | 111-46-6 |
| Molecular mass | 106.12 g/mol |
| Density | 1.118 g/mL |
| Melting point | −10.45 °C |
| Boiling point | 244 °C |
| Solubility in water | miscible |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
Applications
– Cooling systems
– Paint production
– Resin production
– Plastic industry
– Cosmetic and personal care products
– Wood and furniture industry
Environmental impact of DEG
Due to the toxic nature of diethylene glycol, it is essential to consider several important safety measures when using and storing it.
Safety Measures and Regulations for Handling DEG
Storage facilities for tanks and packages containing diethylene glycol should be dry, cool, and away from sources of heat or sparks. The storage area for diethylene glycol should have good ventilation. Workers must wear protective clothing, gloves, and safety masks when handling diethylene glycol. Diethylene glycol tanks should never be stored at temperatures above 120°C, as there is a risk of explosion under such conditions.
Packing
This chemical can be supplied in 230 kg barrels or IBC.