What Is Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether?
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is an organic compound with one hydroxy group and one ether bond in the molecule. It has a molecular formula of C4H10O2, a molecular weight of 90.12, a melting point of -70°C, and a boiling point of 135°C. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a characteristic ether odor. It has a density of 0.9297 g/cm3 (at 20°C), is freely miscible and soluble in water, and is a flammable liquid and vapor with a flash point of 45°C. It may corrode light metals such as copper and aluminum.
Uses of Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is primarily used as a solvent for resins, paints, and printing inks. It also serves in dyeing leather goods, as a stain remover in cleaning, and for dissolving stains. Additionally, it is utilized as a solvent for coating epoxy resins on metal and mechanical parts.
Principle of Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
The principle of ethylene glycol monoethyl ether involves its synthesis and chemical reactions.
1. Synthesis of Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
It is synthesized by reacting oxirane (ethylene oxide) with ethanol in the presence of a base.
2. Chemical Reaction of Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
This compound is miscible with alcohols, acetone, ethers, and liquid esters, besides water, with a pKa of 14.8. It reacts at the hydroxy group like common alcohols.
Types of Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is widely used as an ether solvent, often sold under the trade name “ethyl cellosolve” in various capacities. Available in single-liter cans to 190 kg drums, it is stored at room temperature. Smaller volumes such as 500mL are also available for chemical synthesis.