Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Properties and Industrial Applications

Diethylene glycol (DEG), CAS number 111-46-6, is a colorless, hygroscopic organic compound with the molecular formula C₄H₁₀O₃. It is miscible with water and is widely used as a chemical intermediate in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, plasticizers, and other industrial materials. DEG is also used in selected solvent and heat-transfer fluid formulations. Due to its toxicity, appropriate handling, storage, and contamination-prevention measures are essential. Explore its technical characteristics, industrial applications, safety considerations, and packaging options for chemical supply operations.

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.