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Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate, 2-Hydroxyethyl Acetate, Glycol Monoacetate, Ethylene Glycol Acetate, EGMA, 542-59-6

Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate, 2-Hydroxyethyl Acetate, Glycol Monoacetate, Ethylene Glycol Acetate, EGMA, 542-59-6

 

Product Name: Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate (EGMA)
Chemical Name: 2-Hydroxyethyl Acetate
CAS No: 542-59-6
EC No (EINECS): 208-821-2
Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O₃
Molecular Weight: 104.11 g/mol
REACH Status: Registered

1. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Parameter Description
Chemical Name (IUPAC) 2-Hydroxyethyl acetate
Other Names Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate, EGMA, Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate, 2-Hydroxyethyl Acetate, Glycol Monoacetate, Acetic Acid 2-Hydroxyethyl Ester
CAS Number 542-59-6
EC Number (EINECS) 208-821-2
Molecular Formula C₄H₈O₃
Molecular Weight 104.11 g/mol
Chemical Class Ester, alcohol-ester, glycol monoester
Appearance Colorless, clear liquid
Odor Mild characteristic, ester-like
Taste Not determined as technical product
REACH Status Registered

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION:

Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate (EGMA) is a glycol monoester formed by partial esterification of ethylene glycol with acetic acid. Its structure contains both an ester (-COO-) group and a hydroxyl (-OH) group. This structure gives EGMA both ester and alcohol reactivity.

Structural Formula (Open Structure):

CH₃-COO-CH₂-CH₂-OH

(2-Hydroxyethyl Acetate)

These structural features:

Give EGMA ester and alcohol functionality.

Enable its use as an intermediate in organic syntheses.

Allow it to enter crosslinking reactions in resin and polymer systems due to its hydroxyl group.

Show solvent and plasticizer properties due to its ester group.

EGMA is a glycol monoester used as an organic synthesis intermediate and as an intermediate in chemical production processes. Its use as a solvent is limited; however, it is an important building block in chemical reactions.

2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value
Molecular Formula C₄H₈O₃
Molecular Weight 104.11 g/mol
Appearance Colorless, clear liquid
Odor Mild characteristic, ester-like
Density (20 °C) 1.110 g/cm³
Refractive Index (n20D) 1.420
Boiling Point (760 mmHg) 179.1–182.6 °C
Flash Point (Closed Cup) 103 °C
Vapor Pressure Very low (<0.1 mmHg at 20 °C)
Solubility Miscible with water and most organic solvents
Stability Stable under recommended storage conditions
pH (aqueous solution) Near neutral
Volatility Low
Hygroscopicity May absorb slight moisture; store in dry conditions
Acidity (CH₃COOH) ≤0.03% (Test result: 0.01%)
Water Content ≤0.10% (Test result: 0.05%)
Color (Pt-Co) ≤15 (Test result: 7)
Purity (GC) ≥99.0%

EGMA is a colorless, clear liquid. Its density is 1.110 g/cm³ (20 °C), refractive index 1.420. Its boiling point is in the range of 179.1–182.6 °C. Its flash point is 103 °C (closed cup). It is miscible with water and most organic solvents. It has low volatility and good chemical stability.

3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE

Solvent Solubility Conditions
Water Miscible 20 °C
Methanol Miscible -
Ethanol Miscible -
Isopropanol Miscible -
Acetone Miscible -
Ethyl acetate Miscible -
Ether Miscible -
Toluene Miscible -
Xylene Miscible -
Glycols Miscible -

EGMA is miscible with a wide range of polar and non-polar solvents. It is completely miscible with water. This property makes it useful in various formulations.

4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS

Property Description
Chemical Class Ester, alcohol-ester
Reactivity Hydrolysis, transesterification, esterification, urethane formation
Hydrolytic Stability Moderate; may hydrolyze under acidic/basic conditions
Thermal Stability Good
Oxidation Resistance Moderate
Polymerization Does not undergo hazardous spontaneous polymerization
Compatibility Carboxylic acids, anhydrides, isocyanates, esters
Substances to Avoid Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong bases
Hazardous Decomposition Products Carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), acetic acid vapor

Thanks to the hydroxyl group in its structure, EGMA can undergo esterification, transesterification, and urethane formation reactions. The ester group is prone to hydrolysis and transesterification. EGMA is generally used as a chemical intermediate; its use as a solvent is limited.

5. SPECIFICATIONS (TECHNICAL/INDUSTRIAL GRADE)

Parameter Specification
Purity (GC) ≥ 99.0%
Appearance Colorless, clear liquid
Color (Pt-Co) ≤ 15 (Test result: 7)
Water Content ≤ 0.10% (Test result: 0.05%)
Acidity (CH₃COOH) ≤ 0.03% (Test result: 0.01%)
Density (20 °C) 1.105–1.115 g/cm³
Refractive Index (20 °C) 1.418–1.422
Boiling Range 179–183 °C
Flash Point ≥ 103 °C
Heavy Metals ≤ 10 ppm
Shelf Life 24 months (under proper storage)

EGMA is produced in technical grade with high purity. In industrial applications, batch-to-batch consistency, color stability, and low impurity content are important.

6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

6.1. Organic Synthesis Intermediate

Application Description
Ester Synthesis Reacts with carboxylic acids to form diesters
Polymer Intermediate Building block in polyester and polyurethane production
Resin Modification Modifier in alkyd and polyester resins
Pharmaceutical Intermediate Intermediate in drug synthesis

EGMA is an important intermediate in organic syntheses. It is used particularly in the production of diesters and polyesters.

6.2. Use as Solvent

Application Description
Coatings Limited solvent use
Inks Solvent and viscosity modifier
Cleaners Solvent in industrial cleaners
Adhesives Solvent and flow modifier

The use of EGMA as a solvent is limited; however, it can act as a solvent or co-solvent in certain formulations.

6.3. Intermediate in Chemical Production Processes

Application Description
Polymer Production Intermediate in polyester, polyurethane, and alkyd resins
Plasticizer Production Ester derivatives used as plasticizers
Pharmaceutical Synthesis Used in the synthesis of drug intermediates
Agricultural Chemicals Intermediate in pesticide and herbicide synthesis

EGMA is used as an important intermediate in chemical production processes.

6.4. Other Applications

Application Description
Cosmetics Solvent and moisturizer in some cosmetic products
Textiles Used in textile processing solutions
Leather Processing Intermediate in leather processing chemicals

7. STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Structural Class Ester, alcohol-ester
Functional Groups Ester (-COO-) and hydroxyl (-OH)
Amphiphilic Character Both hydrophilic and lipophilic
Solvency Power Moderate
Evaporation Profile Low, controlled
Water Miscibility Completely miscible
Polarity Medium polarity
Polymer Contribution Intermediate, modifier

The structure of EGMA containing both ester and hydroxyl groups makes it suitable for various chemical reactions.

8. INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES AND TECHNICAL APPLICATIONS

Application Description
Esterification Forms diesters with carboxylic acids
Transesterification Used in ester exchange reactions
Hydrolysis Hydrolyzes under acidic/basic conditions
Urethane Formation Reacts with isocyanates
Polymerization Used in polyester and polyurethane production
Solvent Formulation Limited solvent applications

9. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY

Parameter Value
GHS Classification Not classified as a hazardous substance
Oral LD50 (Rat) > 2000 mg/kg (estimated)
Dermal LD50 (Rabbit) > 2000 mg/kg (estimated)
Skin Irritation May be mildly irritating
Eye Irritation May be mildly irritating
Respiratory Irritation Vapor inhalation may cause mild irritation
Skin Sensitization Not expected
Mutagenicity Not classified
Carcinogenicity Not classified
Bioaccumulation Not likely
WGK Germany 1 (slightly hazardous to water)

EGMA is a chemical with low toxicity. It may cause mild irritation on contact with eyes and skin. Vapor inhalation may cause mild respiratory discomfort. It is not classified as a hazardous substance, but appropriate PPE should be used in industrial handling.

10. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not applicable (not a hazardous substance)
Hazard Class Not a hazardous substance
Packing Group Not applicable
Proper Shipping Name Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate (EGMA)
Marine Pollutant No
ADR/RID Label Not applicable

EGMA is not classified as a hazardous substance. There are no special restrictions for its transport by sea, land, or air.

11. REGULATORY INFORMATION

Region Status
EU REACH registered
USA (TSCA) Listed
EINECS 208-821-2
Turkey (KKDİK) Should be evaluated within compliance and registration requirements
Food Contact Not suitable for technical grade; special grade required for food contact
Hazardous Substance No

12. STORAGE AND HANDLING

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Temperature 15–25 °C (ideal); should not exceed 40 °C
Container Requirements Tightly closed container
Moisture Control Dry environment to prevent moisture absorption
Substances to Avoid Strong oxidizing agents, direct sunlight, ignition sources
Shelf Life 24 months (under proper storage)
Handling Notes Avoid breathing vapor; use PPE
Packaging Options 220 kg iron drum; custom packaging upon request

Handling Notes:

Avoid breathing vapor.

Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, mask).

Avoid contact with skin and eyes.

Keep away from ignition sources.

13. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Combustible liquid; vapor/air mixture may be flammable
Flash Point 103 °C (closed cup)
Extinguishing Media Water spray, foam, CO₂, dry chemical powder
Special Hazards Thermal decomposition may release CO, CO₂, and acetic acid vapor
Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing

EGMA is a combustible liquid. In case of fire, appropriate extinguishing media should be used, and firefighting personnel should wear protective equipment.

14. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

Parameter Information
Personal Protection Respirator, protective goggles, gloves, protective clothing
Ventilation Ventilate the area
Containment Contain the spill
Cleaning Methods Absorb with inert material; place in suitable disposal container
Environmental Precautions Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water sources
Waste Disposal Dispose of according to local regulations

In case of a spill, clean up while preventing vapor formation. Dispose of waste properly. Prevent environmental release.

15. FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action
Inhalation Move the person to fresh air. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of water and soap. Remove contaminated clothing.
Eye Contact Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion Rinse mouth with water. Drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention.

16. RAW MATERIALS AND BY-PRODUCTS

16.1. Raw Materials (Upstream)

Raw Material Description
Ethylene Glycol Precursor in EGMA synthesis
Acetic Acid Used in esterification reaction
Catalyst Acidic catalysts (sulfuric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid)

16.2. By-Products (Downstream)

By-Product Application
Ethylene Glycol Diacetate Solvent, plasticizer
Polyester Resins Coatings, adhesives
Polyurethanes Adhesives, elastomers
Pharmaceutical Intermediates Drug synthesis

17. INDUSTRY SUITABILITY AND USE LEVELS

Industry Application Area Example Use Suitability
Chemistry Organic synthesis intermediate Ester and polymer synthesis High
Coatings Solvent (limited) Inks, adhesives Moderate
Pharmaceuticals Intermediate Drug synthesis Suitable
Agriculture Intermediate Pesticide synthesis Suitable
Textiles Processing solution Textile processing Limited
Cosmetics Solvent/moisturizer Some cosmetic products Limited

18. CHEMICAL REACTIONS AND DERIVATIVE CHEMISTRY

EGMA can undergo many chemical reactions due to both its hydroxyl and ester groups:

Reaction Description
Esterification Forms diesters with carboxylic acids
Transesterification Reacts with esters to perform ester exchange
Hydrolysis Hydrolyzes under acidic/basic conditions
Urethane Formation Forms polyurethanes with isocyanates
Etherification Can form ether bonds under suitable conditions

EGMA derivatives are widely used in coatings, adhesives, polymer systems, and pharmaceutical products.

19. DERIVATIVES AND RELATED COMPOUNDS

Compound Description
Ethylene Glycol Diacetate Diester derivative of EGMA; solvent and plasticizer
Ethylene Glycol Intermediate in EGMA production
Acetic Acid Raw material in EGMA production
Propylene Glycol Monoacetate Similar glycol monoester
Diethylene Glycol Monoacetate Similar glycol monoester

20. SUMMARY AND IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS

SUMMARY:
Ethylene Glycol Monoacetate (EGMA) is a colorless, clear liquid with the formula C₄H₈O₃ and CAS number 542-59-6. It is a glycol monoester containing both an ester and a hydroxyl group. It is used as an organic synthesis intermediate and as an intermediate in chemical production processes. Its use as a solvent is limited. It has low toxicity and is not classified as a hazardous substance. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers.

Key Properties:

Property Value
Appearance Colorless, clear liquid
Chemical Formula C₄H₈O₃
Molecular Weight 104.11 g/mol
CAS Number 542-59-6
Density (20 °C) 1.110 g/cm³
Refractive Index (n20D) 1.420
Boiling Point 179.1–182.6 °C
Flash Point 103 °C (closed cup)
Purity (GC) ≥ 99.0%
Chemical Class Ester, alcohol-ester
Primary Use Organic synthesis intermediate, chemical intermediate

Main Applications:

Industry Applications
Chemistry Organic synthesis intermediate, polymer production
Coatings Limited solvent use
Pharmaceuticals Intermediate
Agriculture Intermediate
Textiles Processing solutions
Cosmetics Solvent/moisturizer in some products

Key Safety Points:

LOW TOXICITY: Not a hazardous substance; LD50 > 2000 mg/kg (estimated)

MILD IRRITATION: May cause mild irritation to eyes and skin

VAPOR CONTROL: Inhalation of vapor should be avoided

STORAGE: Cool, dry, well-ventilated; should not exceed 40 °C

PPE RECOMMENDED: Gloves, protective goggles, respirator

INCOMPATIBLE: Strong oxidizing agents, ignition sources

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

EGMA is a glycol monoester containing both an ester and a hydroxyl group. This structure gives it dual functionality.

It is used as an intermediate in organic syntheses; it is particularly important in diester and polyester production.

Its use as a solvent is limited; however, it can act as a solvent or co-solvent in certain formulations.

It is used as an intermediate in chemical production processes.

It is a combustible liquid; it should be kept away from ignition sources.

It is not classified as a hazardous substance; however, appropriate PPE should be used in industrial handling.

Vapor inhalation may mildly irritate the respiratory tract; good ventilation should be provided.

It should be stored in tightly closed containers to prevent moisture absorption.

Important Statement: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their own specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, use, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with EGMA.

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