Triethylene glycol (TEG) is a chemical compound that is commonly used as a solvent and in the production of plastics and polyester resins. It is also used as a humectant in cosmetics and personal care products to help retain moisture.
| IUPAC Name | 2,2′-{2-[2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}diethanol |
| Molecular Formula | C6H14O4 |
| CAS Number | 112-27-6 |
| Synonyms | Triglycol; TEG; 2,2′-Dihydroxytriethyl ether; Trithylene glycol; 2,2′-thiodiethanol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C6H14O4/c7-1-3-9-5-6-10-4-2-8/h7-8H,1-6H2 |
Triethylene Glycol Properties
Triethylene Glycol MSDS
Triethylene glycol (TEG) is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid that is commonly used as a solvent and chemical intermediate. While TEG is relatively safe to handle, it can pose some health and safety hazards if not used properly. According to its Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), TEG can cause eye and skin irritation, as well as respiratory irritation if inhaled. Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause liver and kidney damage. The MSDS recommends wearing protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when handling TEG, and avoiding contact with the skin, eyes, and clothing. In case of ingestion or inhalation, seek immediate medical attention.
Triethylene Glycol Solubility
TEG is soluble in water, alcohol, acetone, and other polar solvents. It is also miscible with many nonpolar solvents, such as benzene, toluene, and xylene. Its solubility properties make it useful in various industrial applications, including as a solvent, antifreeze agent, and humectant.
Triethylene Glycol Molar Mass
TEG has a molar mass of approximately 150.17 g/mol. Molar mass is the mass of a substance per mole, which is the amount of the substance that contains Avogadro’s number of particles. In the case of TEG, one mole of the substance contains 150.17 grams.
Triethylene Glycol Boiling Point
The boiling point of TEG is 285°C (545°F) at atmospheric pressure. The boiling point is the temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas at atmospheric pressure. TEG has a relatively high boiling point, which makes it useful in applications where high temperatures are involved.
Triethylene Glycol Formula
The chemical formula for TEG is C6H14O4. This formula represents the exact number and type of atoms in the molecule. It is composed of six carbon atoms, fourteen hydrogen atoms, and four oxygen atoms. The formula can be used to calculate the molar mass, molecular weight, and other properties of TEG.
Triethylene Glycol Melting Point
The melting point of TEG is -7.2°C (19°F). The melting point is the temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid. TEG is a colorless liquid at room temperature, but it can solidify at colder temperatures.
Triethylene Glycol Density g/mL
The density of TEG is 1.125 g/mL at 25°C (77°F). Density is the mass of a substance per unit volume. The density of TEG is relatively high, which means that it is heavier than water and sinks in it.
Triethylene Glycol Molecular Weight
TEG has a molecular weight of 150.17 g/mol. Molecular weight is the sum of the atomic weights of all atoms in a molecule. TEG is composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms in a specific arrangement, giving it a unique molecular weight.
Triethylene Glycol Structure
TEG has a chemical formula of C6H14O4 and a linear structure. It consists of three ethylene glycol units linked together by oxygen atoms, with a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to each end. The molecule is symmetrical, with each ethylene glycol unit arranged in a similar manner.
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.125 g/mL at 25°C |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 150.17 g/mol |
| Density | 1.125 g/mL at 25°C |
| Melting Point | -7.2°C (19°F) |
| Boiling Point | 285°C (545°F) |
| Flash Point | 150°C (302°F) |
| Water Solubility | Completely soluble |
| Solubility | Miscible with ethanol and acetone |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.0002 mmHg at 25°C |
| Vapor Density | 5.18 (air=1) |
| pKa | 13.87 (for the first hydroxyl group) |
| pH | Neutral |
Triethylene Glycol Safety and Hazards
TEG is generally considered to be a safe chemical when handled and used properly. However, it can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged or repeated exposure may cause drying and cracking of the skin. Inhalation of the vapor may cause respiratory irritation, and ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort. TEG is not flammable, but it can form explosive mixtures with air when heated. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling TEG, such as gloves and eye protection, and to ensure proper ventilation in the work area.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | S24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. S26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water. S36: Wear suitable protective clothing. |
| UN IDs | UN 3082 |
| HS Code | 2909.44 |
| Hazard Class | 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods) |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | LD50 (oral, rat) > 5,000 mg/kg |
Triethylene Glycol Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing TEG, including the reaction of ethylene oxide with ethylene glycol, and the reaction of diethylene glycol with ethylene oxide.
One common method involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with water in the presence of a catalyst, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, to produce ethylene glycol. A catalyst, such as potassium hydroxide, facilitates the reaction of ethylene glycol with additional ethylene oxide, resulting in the production of TEG.
Another method involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with diethylene glycol in the presence of a catalyst, such as potassium hydroxide, to produce TEG. One can use this method to produce higher-purity TEG by purifying diethylene glycol more easily than ethylene glycol.
The industrial process of synthesizing TEG holds significant importance, as it finds wide-ranging applications such as a solvent, a humectant, and a plasticizer. Careful control of the reaction conditions is necessary to ensure a high yield of TEG and minimize the formation of impurities.
Triethylene Glycol Uses
TEG is a versatile chemical that has many uses in various industries. Here are some of its common uses:
- Solvent: Used as a solvent for various substances, including dyes, inks, and resins.
- Humectant: Manufacturers use TEG as a humectant in cosmetics, personal care products, and food products due to its capability to attract and retain moisture.
- Deicing agent: Used as a deicing agent in airport runways, as it has a lower freezing point than water and can prevent the formation of ice.
- Antifreeze: Used as an antifreeze in heating and cooling systems, as it has a high boiling point and low volatility.
- Plasticizer: Used as a plasticizer in the production of plastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), to improve flexibility and durability.
- Lubricant: Used as a lubricant in metalworking and other industrial applications.
- Fuel additive: Used as a fuel additive in diesel engines to improve combustion and reduce emissions.
- Pharmaceutical excipient: Used as an excipient in the production of pharmaceuticals to improve solubility and stability.
Questions:
Q: Is triethylene glycol soluble in water?
A: Yes, TEG is soluble in water. It is highly hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, which contributes to its water solubility.
Q: How much does 1 gallon of triethylene glycol weigh?
A: The weight of 1 gallon of TEG depends on the temperature of the substance. At room temperature (25°C or 77°F), 1 gallon of TEG weighs approximately 9.7 pounds (4.4 kilograms).
Q: Where to buy triethylene glycol 55-gallon drums?
A: TEG 55-gallon drums can be purchased from various chemical suppliers and distributors. Some popular options include Sigma-Aldrich, VWR International, and Fisher Scientific. It is recommended to check with local chemical suppliers as well.
Q: Where to buy triethylene glycol?
A: TEG can be purchased from chemical suppliers and distributors, including Sigma-Aldrich, VWR International, Fisher Scientific, and many others. It is also available for purchase online from various retailers.
Q: Where to buy near me triethylene glycol 55-gallon drums?
A: The availability of TEG 55-gallon drums may vary depending on the location. It is recommended to check with local chemical suppliers and distributors, as well as industrial and manufacturing supply stores in the area. Some popular options include Grainger, Fastenal, and McMaster-Carr. Online retailers may also offer local pickup options.