Diethylene Glycol (Dihyroxy diethyl ether) is a colorless, virtually odorless, viscous liquid. Compared to MEG, it has a higher boiling point, viscosity and specific gravity. DEG is characterized by great solvent power, extreme hygroscopicity and low vapor loss.
HAZARDS AND SAFETY
DEG is not considered to be a health hazard when handled under the usual industrial conditions. It has few irritating effects and it has much lower acute and chronic oral toxicity than MEG. DEG is also safer than light glycol at high temperatures as it is less flammable.
APPLICATIONS
The viscous glycol ether is an important industrial solvent. It is utilized in the manufacture of unsaturated polyesters, plasticizer and some important resins. It is a dyeing agent of gases. DEG is an effective softening agent, making glues and adhesives more flexible. It is an important component in formulations of brake fluids pastes and pigments.
STORAGE AND HANDLING
The storage of DEG presents no unusual problem. It may be stored in ordinary carbon steel containers. However, for ease of handling and to maintain its purity, special precautions should be taken. To avoid contamination by iron, DEG storage tanks should be made of stainless steel (type 304 or 316) or aluminum. If contamination by halides is undesirable, the packing of the valves and the gaskets should be made of asbestos or halide-free materials.
DEG is shipped under rigid conditions (with careful cleaning, drying of tanks and nitrogen purging) to ensure that it remains chloride, iron, and ash-free. Shipment can be made promptly in big vessels, in tank cars of various sizes and in lined steel drums (220 liters). Precautionary labeling, “Diethylene Glycol. For Industrial Use Only. Harmful or Fatal if Swallowed”.
