What is Diethylene Glycol?
Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is an industrial solvent, an organic compound with two ethylene groups from the glycol family. It is a colorless, odorless liquid at room temperature. DEG has high solubility, dissolving both in water and in organic solvents. Its flash point under heat exposure is 124 °C, and it autoignites at 227 °C. DEG can be used as a reactant in polyester resin production and is a good moisture absorber. It retains its viscosity even at low temperatures, including below freezing.
Chemical Formula of Diethylene Glycol:
C4H10O3
Properties of Diethylene Glycol:
In the 20th century, the chemical properties and unique applications of DEG attracted scientific attention. Today, DEG is considered one of the most common organic solvents with extensive industrial applications. It can dissolve many other organic compounds and is soluble in alcohol, ether, and acetone. While its main use is as a solvent, it has numerous industrial applications.
Applications of Diethylene Glycol in Industries:
- Plastics industry
- Cosmetics and personal care production
- Paper industry: acts as a moisture absorber in plasticizers and paper production
Other Applications of Diethylene Glycol:
- Suitable solvent in paint, resin, oil, etc.
- Raw material for producing saturated and unsaturated polyester resins, polyurethane resins, and plastics
- For synthesis of certain organic compounds
- Manufacturing of creams, lotions, and deodorants
- Production of industrial lubricants (anti-freeze properties)
- Gas dehydration
- Moisture absorption in adhesive production
- Moisture absorber in various paints and coatings, stabilizer for inks
- Organic solvent for extraction and separation of paraffinic and aromatic hydrocarbons
- Intermediate in the preparation of polyester resins, polyurethane foams, thermoplastic polyurethanes, emulsifiers, etc.
Production Method of Diethylene Glycol (DEG):
Diethylene glycol is produced in several steps via hydrolysis reactions, with ethylene oxide as the primary material. DEG is produced along with a mixture of other glycols, including ethylene glycol, monoethylene glycol (MEG), and triethylene glycol (TEG).
Is Diethylene Glycol Produced in Iran?
Yes, companies such as:
- Shazand Petrochemical Company
- Ori Petrochemical Company (comprising Ori Petrochemical Maroon, Ori Petrochemical Morvarid, and Ori Petrochemical Farsa Shimi)
produce DEG in Iran.
MSDS and Storage of Diethylene Glycol:
- Use personal protective equipment when handling DEG
- Ensure proper ventilation and keep storage areas dry and cool
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing
- Do not ingest or inhale DEG vapors
- Keep containers tightly sealed
What is Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether?
Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether is a primary alcohol where an ethoxy-ethoxy group replaces ethanol at position 2. It acts as a protic solvent and is related functionally to diethylene glycol. It is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid with a mild pleasant odor and a flash point near 190 °F, used in soaps, paints, and other chemicals. Chemically, it is known as ethyl glycol, 1-ethoxy-2-hydroxyethane, or ethyl (2-hydroxyethyl) ether. Commercially, it is known as Ethyl Cellosolve (Union Carbide).
Applications of Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether:
- Veterinary applications as a solvent and absorption enhancer
- Auxiliary in injectable products with 30% concentration (containing a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent) for cattle and pigs
When used in pharmaceutical grade 99.9%, it is safe and well tolerated. Up to half of the applied solvent can penetrate the skin and become systemic. For some active pharmaceutical ingredients, this solvent creates a subcutaneous depot.
What is Diethylene Glycol Dibenzate?
Diethylene Glycol Dibenzate is a clear liquid with stable chemical properties, high boiling point, water solubility, thermal stability, plasticizing capacity, cold resistance, electrical properties, and UV filtering. It is used as a plasticizer and is compatible with PVC resin.
