Ethylene Glycol (Ethylene Glycol)

Overview

Ethylene glycol (CAS No: 107-21-1), also known as ethanediol, is a colorless, sweet-smelling organic compound. It is a diol belonging to the alkanol class and is the most widely used glycol in industry. It is produced by hydrolysis of ethylene oxide and is used in a wide variety of applications including antifreeze, polyester fiber and resin production.

Ethylene glycol is a hygroscopic liquid that can mix with water in all proportions. Due to its low freezing point and high boiling point, it is an ideal compound for antifreeze applications. Industrially, it is commercially available in purities of 99.8% and above.

Applications

Ethylene glycol has a wide variety of industrial and commercial applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Toxic Health Hazard Environmental Hazard

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical goggles or face shield
• Appropriate respiratory protection (in case of vapor or aerosol formation)
• Chemical-resistant apron or work clothing
• Closed shoes or boots

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated place
• Store separately from oxidizers and strong acids
• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene or glass containers
• Keep "Toxic Substance" signs in storage area
• Storage temperature: 15-30°C

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam, water mist
• Do not use water jet - may spread the fire
• Intervene with trained personnel using appropriate protective equipment
• Leave the area and call the fire department in case of large fires

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during handling
• Keep toxic substance label
• Use stainless steel tankers for bulk transportation
• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking during handling
• Take precautions against leaks and spills

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene (HDPE) or glass containers
• Provide adequate ventilation in storage areas
• Install ventilation systems in storage tanks
• Keep fire extinguishing equipment in storage areas
• Prohibit smoking in storage areas

Measures in Case of Spillage

• Use appropriate respiratory protection and chemical protective clothing
• Absorb small spills with absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite)
• Request professional cleaning teams for large spills
• Wash the spilled area thoroughly with plenty of water
• Dispose of spilled material as hazardous waste

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 3
• Acute Toxicity (Dermal) Category 3
• Serious Eye Irritation Category 2
• Aquatic Toxicity Category 2

Important Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• EPA: Listed in TSCA inventory
• NFPA 704: Health 2, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0

International Regulations

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Listed in EPA TSCA inventory
• China: Listed in IECSC
• Japan: Listed in ISHL

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Ethylene glycol shows moderate toxic effects in aquatic environments. It degrades in the atmosphere through photochemical reactions. It can be mobile in soil and groundwater. It is biodegradable but can be harmful to aquatic life at high concentrations.

Biological Degradation

• Air: Half-life of 1-10 days through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 2-12 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Degrades within 1-4 weeks through microbial activity

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Must be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Small quantities should be collected in appropriate waste collection containers
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations
• Disposal into sewerage is prohibited

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is ethylene glycol used as antifreeze?

Ethylene glycol significantly lowers the freezing point when mixed with water (down to -45°C) and raises the boiling point. These properties make it an ideal antifreeze component for automotive and industrial cooling systems.

What are the effects of ethylene glycol on human health?

Ethylene glycol is toxic when ingested. Even small amounts (30-60 ml) can be fatal in adults. It is metabolized in the liver to form toxic metabolites. Skin and eye contact may cause irritation.

What materials is ethylene glycol compatible with?

Ethylene glycol is compatible with stainless steel, polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, PTFE and viton. It can cause corrosion with some metals such as zinc, aluminum and copper.

How should ethylene glycol be stored?

It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated place, in its original container or containers made of appropriate materials, away from sources of flame and sparks. Protect from direct sunlight.

What should I do if ethylene glycol spills?

Wear appropriate protective equipment, ventilate the area, clean small spills with absorbent materials, request professional help for large spills. Dispose of cleaning wastes as hazardous waste.