Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) 99.9%

Chemical Description

Chemical Identity:

• Chemical Name: Mono ethylene glycol
• Abbreviation: MEG
• CAS Number: 107-21-1
• Chemical Formula: C2H6O2
• Grade Standard: Industrial grade

Physical Properties:

• Physical State: Colorless, odorless, slightly viscous liquid
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Stability: Hygroscopic under normal temperatures and pressures; Low volatility

Safety Information:

• Hazard Classification: Classified as flammable liquids.
• Handling Precautions: Requires handling with safety glasses, synthetic apron and impervious gloves. For most conditions, no respiratory protection should be needed. Provide exhaust ventilation or other engineering controls to keep the airborne concentrations of vapors below their respective threshold limit value.

First Aid Measures:

• The chemical has high toxicity. Ingestion of sufficient amounts is fatal if left untreated with the ethylene glycol being oxidized in the body to glycolic acid and then the toxic chemical, oxalic acid. MEG ingestion impacts the central nervous system, heart and can cause acute kidney failure.
• Eye exposure to mono ethylene glycol vapors can irritate, and therefore it is suggested goggles should be worn while handling the chemical. Exposure to ethylene glycol in liquid form has the potential to cause more serious eye damage. If contact is made with the eyes, immediately wash with plenty of water and seek medical attention.
• Skin exposure with MEG can also irritate and so gloves should be worn. If the skin does become contaminated, all wet clothing should be removed, and the skin washed with water. Inhalation exposure to high levels of ethylene glycol can cause irritation, and potentially intolerable respiratory discomfort and coughs. If excessive inhalation occurs, the individual should be removed from the environment, breathe fresh air, and seek medical attention.
• Storage Recommendations: Keep containers tightly closed. Keep containers in a cool, well-ventilated area. Keep away from heat and sources of ignition.

Environmental Impact:

• Biodegradability: Possibly hazardous short term degradation products are not likely. However, long term degradation products may arise.
• Ecotoxicity: Can be harmful to humans and animals.

Applications and Uses:

• Polymer Precursor: There is strong global demand for mono ethylene glycol in the plastic industry as it is a vital ingredient in the production of polyester fibers, films, and resins, one of which is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PET is created by heating ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid in an esterification reaction. This chemical is then converted into plastic bottles, microwaveable containers and is even used in the textile industry. It is estimated that 70-80% of all the MEG consumed is used as a chemical intermediate in these polyester production processes.
• Antifreeze: A primary industry use of mono ethylene glycol is in antifreeze applications where it is a component in the manufacture of antifreeze, coolants, aircraft anti-icers and deicers due to its ability to depress the freezing temperature of the water. While pure ethylene glycol freezes at -12.9 °C, when mixed with water this can greatly reduce to around -45 °C with 60% ethylene glycol and 40% water.
• Textiles: End uses for MEG contain clothing and other textiles. Polyester and fleece fabrics, upholstery, carpets and pillows originate from ethylene glycol.
• Electronic Industry: Uses of MEG include the manufacture of capacitors, as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of 1,4-dioxane, as an additive to prevent corrosion in liquid cooling systems for personal computers, and inside the lens devices of cathode-ray tube type of rear projection televisions.
• Other Industry Uses: Mono ethylene glycol is also used in the manufacture of alkyd resins which are used to form a film in paints, enamels, and varnishes. In the gas industry, ethylene glycol is used to remove water vapor from the gas before it is processed further as well as a desiccant in gas pipelines to stop the formation of clathrates. In the medical field, ethylene glycol can be used in the production of vaccines, although it is not present in the final administered vaccine. It is a minor ingredient in a variety of cleaners, including screen cleaners for electronics where it is paired with isopropyl alcohol. For the treatment and prevention of fungi and rot in wood, mono ethylene glycol can be used, especially useful for exhibitions and museums.

Packaging Options:

• ISO tanks
• Iron drums
• Custom Packaging