Diethylene Glycol, Ethylene Diglycol, Diglycol, DEG, 111-46-6

DIETHYLENE GLYCOL (DEG)

Diethylene Glycol / 2,2'-Oxydiethanol / Diglycol / Ethylene Diglycol / DEG
CAS Number: 111-46-6
EC Number: 203-872-2

SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Diethylene Glycol is a colorless, practically odorless, hygroscopic liquid obtained as a by-product of ethylene glycol production or produced by the hydration of ethylene oxide. Due to its molecular structure, it has a higher boiling point and viscosity compared to Monoethylene Glycol (MEG). It is widely used as a solvent, humectant, and intermediate in various industrial applications.

SECTION 2: SYNONYMS AND OTHER NAMES

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

3.1. Molecular Structure

Diethylene Glycol consists of two ethylene glycol units linked by an ether bond (-O-). It has two terminal hydroxyl groups (-OH) that provide its reactivity and hygroscopic properties.

Structural Formula:

HO - CH₂ - CH₂ - O - CH₂ - CH₂ - OH

Simplified Representation:
(HOCH₂CH₂)₂O

3.2. Molecular Formula

C₄H₁₀O₃

3.3. Molecular Weight

106.12 g/mol

3.4. Key Structural Features

SECTION 4: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 5: SPECIFICATIONS (TECHNICAL GRADE)

SECTION 6: SOLUBILITY PROFILE

SECTION 7: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

SECTION 8: REACTION EQUATIONS

8.1. Esterification with Acids

DEG + R-COOH → DEG Ester + H₂O

8.2. Reaction with Isocyanates (Polyurethane Formation)

DEG + 2 R-NCO → Polyurethane + CO₂

8.3. Dehydration (High Temperature)

2 DEG → Dioxane + 2 H₂O

8.4. Oxidation with Strong Oxidizers

DEG + [O] → Degradation Products + Heat

SECTION 9: PRODUCTION METHOD

Diethylene Glycol is produced as a by-product of ethylene glycol manufacture or directly by the hydration of ethylene oxide.

SECTION 10: APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

10.1. Polymer and Plastics Industry

10.2. Oil and Gas Industry

10.3. Printing and Textile Industry

10.4. Transportation and Aviation

10.5. Adhesives and Sealants

10.6. Tobacco and Cosmetics

WARNING: DEG is PROHIBITED for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics due to severe toxicity.

SECTION 11: NAMING AND ALTERNATIVES

SECTION 12: SAFETY AND HEALTH HAZARDS

12.1. Acute Toxicity

12.2. Poisoning Symptoms

CRITICAL WARNING: DEG has a sweet taste that can be misleading, especially to children and animals. It is HIGHLY TOXIC when ingested and can be fatal.

12.3. Target Organs

SECTION 13: GHS CLASSIFICATION

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark), GHS08 (Health)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

SECTION 14: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

SECTION 15: FIRST AID MEASURES

SECTION 16: FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

SECTION 17: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

SECTION 18: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

SECTION 19: PACKAGING OPTIONS

SECTION 20: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

SECTION 21: ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

SECTION 22: REGULATORY INFORMATION

SECTION 23: SECTORAL SUITABILITY AND REGULATORY STATUS

SECTION 24: FORMULATION RECIPES AND GUIDELINES

Disclaimer: The following ratios are starting formulation examples for industrial applications. Exact ratios may vary depending on final product specifications and raw material purity.

24.1. Textile Printing Paste (Humectant Recipe)

Purpose: Prevent screen clogging and dye drying during rotary printing.

24.2. Industrial Hard Surface Cleaner (Low Foaming)

Purpose: Degreasing of metal parts with low volatility.

24.3. Aircraft De-icing Fluid (Type I Fluid Base)

Purpose: Freeze point depression and surface wetting.

SECTION 25: TECHNICAL RECOMMENDATIONS AND BEST PRACTICES

Based on the physical properties analysis, the following operational recommendations are provided:

1. Temperature Management for Pumping:

   • Issue: DEG viscosity is ~36 cP at 20°C and freezes at -10°C.

   • Recommendation: In cold climates, storage tanks and transfer lines should be equipped with heating jackets and insulation to maintain a minimum temperature of 15-20°C. Failure to do so may result in cavitation in centrifugal pumps and incomplete tank emptying due to high wall adhesion.

2. Moisture Protection (Critical Quality Control):

   • Issue: DEG is extremely hygroscopic. If left open to the atmosphere, it can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water, diluting purity and reducing boiling point/efficiency.

   • Recommendation: Storage tanks should always be blanketed with dry nitrogen (N₂) or fitted with a silica gel moisture trap on the tank vent. Never use compressed air for transfer, as it introduces atmospheric moisture into the tank.

3. Seal and Gasket Selection:

   • Issue: DEG is a mild solvent for certain rubber types.

   • Recommendation: Use EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) or PTFE (Teflon) gaskets. Avoid natural rubber or nitrile (Buna-N) unless specifically rated for glycol service, as swelling may occur over time.

4. Analytical Substitution Warning (Cross-Contamination Risk):

   • Issue: The sweet taste and clear appearance can lead to accidental mixing in small-scale production (e.g., mixing PG drums with DEG drums).

   • Recommendation: Drums should be clearly labeled and ideally color-coded (e.g., DEG: Orange stripe / PG: Green stripe). DEG should be stored in a physically separate area from food or cosmetic-grade raw materials to prevent cross-contamination.

SECTION 26: QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

SECTION 27: CRITICAL NOTICES AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL NOTICES:

1. Toxicity: Diethylene Glycol is HIGHLY TOXIC when ingested. It has a sweet taste that can be misleading, especially to children and animals. It is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

2. Sweet Taste Warning: The sweet taste of DEG is a dangerous characteristic. NEVER use DEG as a sweetener or sugar substitute. Historical incidents have involved fatal poisonings due to DEG contamination in syrups and other products.

3. Hygroscopic Nature: DEG is extremely hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air. Store in sealed containers with a nitrogen blanket or desiccant breather to maintain purity.

4. Viskozite: DEG has significantly higher viscosity (35.7 cP at 20°C) compared to water (1 cP) and MEG (16 cP). Pumping and handling equipment must be designed accordingly.

5. Incompatibility: DEG is incompatible with strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases. Reaction with these materials may cause fire, explosion, or toxic gas release.

6. Düzenleyici Durum: DEG is prohibited in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics by FDA, EMA, EU Cosmetics Regulation, and other regulatory bodies worldwide.

7. Cross-Contamination: Due to its similar appearance to PG and other glycols, strict labeling and storage segregation are essential to prevent accidental use in prohibited applications.

8. First Aid: In case of ingestion, DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING (aspiration risk). Seek immediate medical attention. Antidote therapy (Fomepizole/Ethanol) may be required.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Maintain 15-40°C. Use nitrogen blanket or desiccant breather. Avoid freezing.

• Handling: Use chemical-resistant gloves (neoprene, butyl rubber), protective goggles, and appropriate clothing.

• Transfer: Use sealed transfer systems. Avoid compressed air for transfer. Use stainless steel or aluminum equipment.

• Labeling: Clearly label all containers. Use color-coding to distinguish from other glycols (PG, MEG, TEG).

• Segregation: Store DEG separately from food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic raw materials to prevent cross-contamination.

• Training: Train personnel on the toxicity hazards and proper handling procedures.

• Waste Management: Dispose of DEG and contaminated materials in accordance with local regulations.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. Diethylene Glycol is a toxic substance and should be handled with extreme caution. NEVER USE IN FOOD, PHARMACEUTICAL, OR COSMETIC PRODUCTS. This document does not substitute professional or medical advice.