Chemicals

1,2-Ethylene Glycol

(0 reviews)

Price on request

Buy 1,2-Ethylene Glycol
online from Chemical Solution Inc. (CSI): Your trusted distributor of high quality chemical raw materials and laboratory equipment.

Add to Wishlist

Chemical Name	1,2-Ethylene Glycol (Ethylene Glycol)
Synonyms	1,2-Dihydroxyethane; 1,2-Ethanediol; 146AR; 2-Hydroxyethanol; Dowtherm SR 1; E 600; E 600 (glycol); Ethylene alcohol; Ethylene dihydrate; Fridex; Glycol alcohol; Glysil GS; MEG 100; Macrogol 400 BPC; Monoethylene glycol; NSC 93876; Norkool; Ramp; Tescol; Ucar 17; Union Carbide XL 54 Type I De-icing Fluid; Zerex
CAS Number	107-21-1
Alternate CAS #	2219-51-4 - Labelled
Molecular Formula	C₂H₆O₂
Appearance	Colourless Oil to Thick Oil
Molecular Weight	62.07
Storage	20°C
Solubility	DMSO (Sparingly), Methanol (Sparingly)
Category	Building Blocks; Miscellaneous;
Applications	1,2-Ethylene Glycol is used in the synthesis of nanotubes (1) and nanocables (2). Also primarily used in the synthesis of polyester fibers and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottling products. Also used in the study of phosphocholine membranes through the synthesis of polyethylene glycol (4). Drinking water contaminant candidate list 3 (CCL 3) compound as per United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), environmental, and food contaminants.

1,2-Ethylene Glycol: Properties, Uses, and Hazards

Introduction

1,2-Ethylene glycol, also known as monoethylene glycol (MEG), is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid. It is widely used in various industries, such as textile, plastic, and automotive, due to its unique properties. In this article, we will explore the properties, uses, and hazards of 1,2-ethylene glycol.

Properties of 1,2-Ethylene Glycol

1,2-Ethylene glycol has the following physical and chemical properties:

Chemical formula: C2H6O2
Molecular weight: 62.07 g/mol
Melting point: -12.9°C
Boiling point: 197.6°C
Density: 1.115 g/cm3 at 20°C
Viscosity: 5.5 cP at 20°C
Solubility: soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone

Production of 1,2-Ethylene Glycol

1,2-Ethylene glycol is produced by the hydration of ethylene oxide, which is obtained by the oxidation of ethylene. The hydration reaction is carried out in the presence of a catalyst, usually a strong acid such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid.

Uses of 1,2-Ethylene Glycol

1,2-Ethylene glycol has a wide range of uses in various industries. Some of its common uses are:

Antifreeze

One of the most common uses of 1,2-ethylene glycol is as an antifreeze agent. It is added to water to lower the freezing point of the solution, preventing it from freezing in cold temperatures. Antifreeze is commonly used in automobiles, aircraft, and industrial cooling systems.

Polyester Resins

1,2-Ethylene glycol is used as a building block in the production of polyester resins, which are used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, such as boats, car bodies, and furniture.

Solvent

1,2-Ethylene glycol is also used as a solvent in the production of various chemicals and products, such as ink, paint, and adhesives.

Deicing Agent

In addition to its use as an antifreeze agent, 1,2-ethylene glycol is also used as a deicing agent. It is added to water to lower the freezing point of the solution, making it easier to remove ice from roads and walkways.

Hazards of 1,2-Ethylene Glycol

Although 1,2-ethylene glycol has many useful properties, it can also be hazardous to human health and the environment. Some of the hazards associated with 1,2-ethylene glycol are:

Toxicity

1,2-Ethylene glycol is highly toxic when ingested. It can cause kidney failure, neurological damage, and even death. It is important to handle 1,2-ethylene glycol with care and to take appropriate safety measures when working with it.

Environmental Hazard

1,2-Ethylene glycol is also hazardous to the environment. It is highly toxic to aquatic organisms and can cause water pollution if not handled properly. It is important to dispose of 1,2-ethylene glycol properly and to avoid contaminating water sources.

Fire Hazard

1,2-Ethylene glycol is flammable and can ignite if exposed to heat or flame. It is important to handle it carefully and to store it in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat or flame.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1,2-ethylene glycol is a versatile chemical compound that has many applications in various industries. It is commonly used as an antifreeze agent, building block for polyester resins, solvent, and deicing agent. However, it is important to handle it with care and take appropriate safety measures due to its toxicity, environmental hazard, and fire hazard. Proper disposal and storage are also crucial to prevent harm to human health and the environment.