Diethylene Glycol

Diethylene glycol (DEG), with the chemical formula C₄H₁₀O₃ and CAS number 111-46-6, is a hygroscopic, colorless, odorless liquid with a sweet taste. It is widely used across various industries due to its solvent properties, humectant capabilities, and chemical stability. Below is a detailed breakdown of its key application areas:

1. Industrial and Chemical Manufacturing

• Solvent:

• Used as a solvent in dyes, inks, resins, and adhesives.

• Facilitates the production of plasticizers, polyester resins, and polyurethanes.

• Gas Dehydration:

• Acts as a desiccant in natural gas processing to remove water vapor.

• Antifreeze/Coolant:

• Incorporated into antifreeze formulations for industrial cooling systems (though less common than monoethylene glycol).

2. Textile Industry

• Fiber Lubricant:

• Serves as a lubricant and softening agent in synthetic fiber (e.g., polyester) production.

• Dye Carrier:

• Enhances dye penetration and uniformity in textile dyeing processes.

3. Personal Care and Cosmetics

• Humectant:

• Retains moisture in skin care products, lotions, and hair care formulations.

• Viscosity Modifier:

• Adjusts the thickness of cosmetic and hygiene products (e.g., toothpaste, shampoos).

4. Pharmaceuticals

• Excipient:

• Used as a solvent or stabilizer in topical ointments, creams, and liquid medications.

• Note: Not approved for oral/internal use due to toxicity risks.

5. Polymer and Resin Production

• Polyester Resins:

• A precursor in unsaturated polyester resins for coatings, laminates, and composites.

• Polyether Polyols:

• Intermediate in polyurethane foam manufacturing.

6. Automotive and Lubricants

• Brake Fluid Component:

• Blended into hydraulic brake fluids for its hygroscopic and thermal stability.

• Lubricant Additive:

• Enhances performance of industrial lubricants and metalworking fluids.

7. Agriculture

• Pesticide Formulations:

• Solvent or carrier in herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.

8. Printing and Inks

• Ink Component:

• Improves flow and drying properties in printing inks (e.g., flexographic inks).

9. Adhesives and Sealants

• Plasticizer:

• Enhances flexibility and durability in adhesives, sealants, and caulks.

  
  

Diethylene glycol’s versatility makes it valuable in industrial processes, but its use requires careful risk management due to health hazards. Alternatives like propylene glycol are often preferred in food-grade or pharmaceutical applications.