Diethylene Glycol (DEG)
Diethylene glycol (DEG) is an organic compound with the formula (HOCH2CH2)2O.
It is a colorless, practically odorless, poisonous, and hygroscopic liquid with a sweetish taste. It is miscible in water, alcohol, ether, acetone, and ethylene glycol.
CAS Number: 111-46-6
Chemical Name: Diethylene Glycol
Chemical Formula: C₄H₁₀O₃
Molecular Weight: 106.12 g/mol
Structure: HO–CH₂CH₂–O–CH₂CH₂–OH
Appearance: Clear, colorless, hygroscopic liquid
Odor: Faintly sweet
Solubility: Fully miscible with water, alcohols, ethers, and many organic solvents
Boiling Point: ~245 °C
Freezing Point: ~ -10.5 °C
Density: ~1.118 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Flash Point: ~143 °C (closed cup)
Density: ~1.118 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Viscosity: ~35 cP at 25 °C
Main Applications include:
- Manufacture of saturated and unsaturated polyester resins, polyurethanes, and plasticizers
- As a building block in organic synthesis, e.g. of morpholine and 1,4-dioxane. It is a solvent for nitrocellulose, resins, dyes, oils, and other organic compounds.
- Humectant for tobacco, cork, printing ink, and glue.
- Component in brake fluid, lubricants,
- Component for wallpaper strippers, artificial fog and haze solutions,
- Personal care products (e.g. skin cream and lotions, deodorants),
Application in areas:
- Industrial Uses
- Solvent: In resins, oils, dyes, inks, and plastics
- Humectant & Plasticizer: Used in tobacco, glues, printing inks, and cellophane
- Coolants & Antifreeze: Component of engine coolants and brake fluids (though less common than ethylene glycol)
- Textile Industry: Used in fiber treatment and lubricants
- Personal Care & Cosmetics (Restricted)
- Occasionally found in skin creams and lotions as a humectant, though now discouraged or banned in some regions due to toxicity concerns
- Chemical Intermediate
Used to produce:- Polyester resins
- Polyurethane foams
- Plasticizers
Safety & Handling:
- Hazards:
- Toxic if ingested: Affects kidneys, liver, and nervous system
- May be harmful by inhalation or skin absorption
- Chronic exposure can cause systemic toxicity
- Has caused mass poisoning incidents when used incorrectly in food or pharmaceuticals
Regulatory Notes:
- Not approved for use in food, pharmaceuticals, or cosmetics in most regions (e.g., U.S., EU)
- Often replaced by safer alternatives like propylene glycol in personal care
PPE Requirements:
- Acid-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Chemical splash goggles / face shield
- Lab coat or acid-resistant apron
- Proper ventilation / fume hood
Storage Guidelines:
- Keep in tightly closed containers
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers
Packaging: Bulk, Drum, IBC