Diethylene Glycol (DEG)

Overview

Diethylene Glycol (DEG, CAS No: 111-46-6), is a colorless, odorless liquid with a slightly sweet taste. It is the dimer of ethylene glycol and contains two hydroxyethyl groups. It is miscible in water, alcohol, acetone and ether in all proportions. Due to its hygroscopic properties, it is widely used as a humectant.

DEG is a low-toxicity glycol derivative with a wide range of industrial applications. It is particularly used as a solvent, humectant and intermediate in textile, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It is also used in antifreeze and hydraulic fluid formulations.

Applications

Diethylene Glycol has a wide range of industrial and commercial applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Harmful to health

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical safety goggles or face shield
• Respiratory protection (when dust or vapor generation occurs)
• Chemical-resistant apron or work clothing
• Appropriate ventilation or local exhaust system

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place
• Store in original sealed containers, protected from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing agents
• Storage temperature: 10-30°C
• Protect from moisture

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishing agents: Dry chemical, CO₂, water spray, alcohol-resistant foam
• Cooling can be done using water spray
• Intervention by trained personnel with appropriate respiratory protection
• Use dry chemical or CO₂ for small fires
• Use water spray or alcohol-resistant foam for large fires

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
• Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while handling
• Keep appropriate labels on transport containers
• Have fire extinguishing equipment in transport vehicles

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene or glass containers
• Keep appropriate signage in storage area
• Provide appropriate drainage systems when storing large quantities
• Prohibit smoking in storage areas
• Store separately from acids and oxidizers

Spill Response Measures

• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spills with sand, chemical sponge or other absorbent materials
• Dispose of absorbed material appropriately
• Wash spill area with plenty of water and detergent
• Call professional cleaning service for large spills
• Prevent spills from entering sewerage or water sources

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Acute toxicity Category 4
• Skin irritation Category 2

Important Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• OSHA: Subject to hazard communication standard
• NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0
• FDA: Approved for use in non-food contact applications

International Legislation

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Not subject to EPA VOC regulations
• China: Listed in IECSC
• Japan: Listed in ISHL
• Global: Not subject to Montreal Protocol

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Diethylene Glycol is moderately toxic in aquatic environments but is biodegradable. It undergoes rapid photochemical degradation in the atmosphere. It degrades through microbial activity in soil and has low bioaccumulation potential.

Biological Degradation

• Air: 1-3 day half-life through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 5-10 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Rapid degradation through microbial activity
• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): 0.8-1.0 g O₂/g DEG
• Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): 1.5-1.8 g O₂/g DEG

Waste Management

• Not classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities can be disposed of through biological treatment in licensed facilities
• Large quantities should be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations
• Prevent entry into wastewater

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Diethylene Glycol produced?

Diethylene Glycol is produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with water. In this process, ethylene glycol is first formed, then a second ethylene oxide molecule is added to obtain DEG. Industrial-scale continuous distillation processes are used with annual global production exceeding 500,000 tons.

What is the difference between Diethylene Glycol and Ethylene Glycol?

Ethylene glycol (EG) is a smaller molecule and has higher toxicity. DEG has lower toxicity but higher boiling point (245°C vs 197°C) and lower vapor pressure. DEG also has higher viscosity and stronger hygroscopic properties.

Can Diethylene Glycol be used in food products?

No, Diethylene Glycol is not approved for use in food products. Safer alternatives like propylene glycol should be preferred in the food industry. DEG should only be used in industrial applications.

What is the shelf life of Diethylene Glycol?

When stored in properly sealed containers, Diethylene Glycol has a shelf life of approximately 2 years. It should be tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and stored in a dry environment. Stability testing is recommended before long-term storage.

What should I do if Diethylene Glycol contacts my skin?

Remove contaminated clothing immediately and wash with plenty of soap and water. Prolonged contact may cause dryness to skin, using moisturizer may be beneficial. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. For eye contact, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult an ophthalmologist. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting, seek immediate medical attention.

Can Diethylene Glycol be mixed with other solvents?

Yes, Diethylene Glycol is miscible with water, alcohols, ketones and glycol ethers in all proportions. It is immiscible with hydrocarbons and oils. It has good compatibility especially with water and ethanol. However, it may react with strong oxidizers and acids.