Ethylene Glycol (EG) is a vital organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₆O₂. Known for its wide-ranging applications, EG is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid. It plays a critical role in various industries, from automotive antifreeze and coolants to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Its ability to absorb moisture and lower the freezing point of water makes it an essential component in products designed to operate in extreme temperatures. While highly beneficial, it’s crucial to handle ethylene glycol with care due to its toxic nature, ensuring safety and efficiency in its numerous uses.
EG Products
| GRADE | PRODUCER | DESCRIBTION | DATASHEET |
|---|---|---|---|
| MEG | SHAZAND, MARUN PETROCHEMICAL COMPANY | MONOETHYLENE GLYCOL | DOWNLOAD |
| DEG | SHAZAND, MARUN PETROCHEMICAL COMPANY | DIETHYLENE GLYCOL | DOWNLOAD |
| TEG | SHAZAND, MARUN PETROCHEMICAL COMPANY | TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL | DOWNLOAD |
What is Ethylene Glycol?
This molecular arrangement gives ethylene glycol unique properties, including its ability to act as a suitable solvent for various substances, its hygroscopic nature (ability to attract and hold water), and its importance in numerous industrial applications.
- Ethylene glycol formula: (CH2OH)2
- Ethylene glycol structure: HO-CH₂-CH₂-OH
Ethylene glycol uses
Ethylene glycol is utilized across various industries for its versatile properties. Here are some of its common uses:
- Automotive Applications
- Ethylene glycol eg antifreeze and Coolant: Ethylene glycol is a key ingredient in automotive antifreeze, helping to prevent engine overheating in summer and freezing in winter. It forms a mixture with water that has a lower freezing point and higher boiling point than pure water, making it effective in extreme temperatures.
- De-icing Solutions: It is also used for de-icing windshields, aircraft, and airport runways during winter, enhancing safety in transportation.
2. Ethylene glycol uses in industry
- Polyester Production: Ethylene glycol is a major ingredient in the manufacture of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic resin, which is used for beverage containers and polyester fibers in textiles.
- Heat Transfer Fluids: It serves as a heat transfer fluid in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and industrial coolants, facilitating efficient thermal management.
- Fiberglass Manufacturing: Ethylene glycol is utilized in producing fiberglass, which is used in various products like jet skis and bathtubs.
3. Ethylene glycol uses in Medicine
Ethylene glycol is widely used in medicine mainly as a solvent in pharmaceutical formulations, enhancing the solubility and stability of medications. It serves as an antidote for ethylene glycol poisoning, often administered as ethanol or fomepizole. It’s crucial in drug delivery systems through PEGylation, improving drug efficacy and safety. Additionally, it’s used in medical devices as a plasticizer or stabilizer and in research for drug delivery and therapeutic development. Despite its benefits, ethylene glycol is highly toxic if ingested, requiring careful handling and regulation.
4. Chemical Manufacturing
- Solvent and Reagent: It acts as a solvent in inks and paints and as a reagent in producing various chemicals including polyesters and resins.
- Natural Gas Processing: Ethylene glycol is employed to remove water vapor from natural gas, preventing hydrate formation in pipelines.
5. Other Applications
- Hydraulic Fluids: It is included in hydraulic fluids, enhancing their properties for various machinery.
- Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics: Ethylene glycol is used as an ingredient in some pharmaceutical formulations and cosmetic products, although it must be handled with care due to its toxicity.
Properties of Ethylene Glycol
- Appearance and Odor: Ethylene glycol is typically clear and liquid, often having a sweet odor. It can be dyed for use in antifreeze solutions.
- Boiling and Freezing Points: Pure ethylene glycol has a boiling point of approximately 198 °C (388.4 °F) and freezes at around -13 °C (8.6 °F). When mixed with water, a 50/50 solution can remain liquid down to about -37 °C (-34.6 °F).
- Density: The density of ethylene glycol varies with concentration and temperature. For example, at 20 °C, a 40% ethylene glycol solution has a density of about 1.048 kg/m³.
- Viscosity: Ethylene glycol solutions exhibit varying viscosity depending on temperature and concentration. At lower temperatures, the solution becomes more viscous, which can affect pumping efficiency.
Ethylene glycol eg price
To receive the price list of ethylene glycol (EG) and make a purchase, you can contact the experts of the petrochemical raw materials sales department at Shobeir Shimi. Alternatively, you can view the latest prices from the chart on the product page.
Alternatives to Ethylene Glycol
There are several alternatives to ethylene glycol (EG) that are considered safer and more environmentally friendly:
- Propylene Glycol: Similar in structure to ethylene glycol, it is less toxic and used in applications like antifreeze and deicing.
- Butylene Glycol: Another alternative with lower toxicity, used in cosmetics and personal care products.
- Bio based Glycols: Derived from renewable resources, these glycols offer similar properties to ethylene glycol but with reduced environmental impact.
- Glycerol (Glycerin): A natural compound with antifreeze properties, commonly used in food and pharmaceuticals.
- Isopropanol (Isopropyl Alcohol): Used in some deicing applications, though less common than glycols.
These alternatives provide similar functionalities while addressing the toxicity and environmental concerns associated with ethylene glycol.
Health and Safety Considerations
Ethylene glycol eg toxicity
Ethylene glycol is highly toxic to humans and animals. When ingested, it is metabolized into toxic compounds that interfere with the body’s metabolic processes. The primary toxic effects occur in the kidneys and the central nervous system. Ethylene glycol poisoning can lead to severe dehydration, metabolic acidosis, kidney failure, and even death.
Symptoms of Ethylene Glycol Poisoning
While ethylene glycol is incredibly useful, it poses significant health risks if ingested. Its sweet taste can make it attractive to children and animals, but it’s highly toxic. Symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and confusion
- Rapid heartbeat
- Seizures
- Kidney failure
Due to these risks, many manufacturers now add bitter-tasting agents to ethylene glycol products to deter accidental ingestion. Always store products containing ethylene glycol safely out of reach of children and pets.
Proper Handling and Storage Guidelines
Handling: Use gloves and eye protection when handling ethylene glycol. Avoid skin and eye contact.
Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where ethylene glycol is handled or stored.
Conclusion
Ethylene glycol (EG) is a highly versatile and essential chemical used across numerous industries, from automotive antifreeze and industrial coolants to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Its unique properties, such as high solubility and hygroscopic nature, make it an invaluable component in various applications. While it offers significant benefits, it is crucial to handle ethylene glycol with care due to its toxicity. Overall, EG remains a critical substance in industrial and commercial processes, contributing to advancements in technology and product development.