Triethylene glycol
[CAS# 112-27-6]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Alcohols, phenols, phenolic compounds and derivatives >> Acyclic alcohol
• Name: Triethylene glycol
• Synonyms: Triglycol; TEG; 2,2'-(Ethylenedioxy)diethanol
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₄O₄
• Molecular Weight: 150.17
• CAS Registry Number: 112-27-6
• EC Number: 203-953-2
• SMILES: C(COCCOCCO)O

Properties

• Density: 1.124
• Melting point: -7 ºC
• Boiling point: 285 ºC
• Refractive index: 1.4545-1.4565
• Flash point: 165 ºC
• Water solubility: SOLUBLE

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319
• Precautionary Statements: P264-P280-P302+P352-P337+P313-P305+P351+P338-P362+P364-P332+P313

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301

Discovory and Applicatios

Triethylene glycol (TEG) has the chemical formula C6H14O4 and belongs to the ethylene glycol family, a compound containing two hydroxyl groups. It was discovered in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when chemists were exploring the properties and applications of various glycols. Triethylene glycol is a derivative of ethylene glycol and was discovered during the polymerization process, in which multiple ethylene glycol molecules are linked together.

Triethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid. It has a boiling point of about 285°C and a melting point of -7°C. It is highly hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air and is miscible with water and many organic solvents. These properties make TEG a versatile chemical with a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

One of the main uses of triethylene glycol is as a dehydrating agent. It is widely used to remove moisture from natural gas. This is essential to prevent pipeline corrosion and the formation of hydrates, which can hinder the flow of gas. It is also used as a desiccant in air conditioning systems to remove moisture from the air, thereby increasing the efficiency and performance of the system.

TEG is used as a plasticizer in the manufacture of plastics and other materials. In the production of PVC, TEG is added to make the plastic more flexible and durable. This application extends to products such as pipes, cables, and various consumer goods. It is also used in cellulosic plastics to increase their flexibility and processability.

Triethylene glycol is used as a solvent in various applications. It is used as a solvent in the formulation of dyes and inks to help dissolve the pigments and maintain their stability. In the pharmaceutical industry, TEG is used as a solvent in drug formulations to ensure that the active ingredients are properly dissolved and delivered.

TEG has antimicrobial properties and is used in a variety of environments. It is used as an air disinfectant in hospital settings to reduce bacteria and viruses in the air, helping to control infection. It is also found in some household cleaning products and disinfectants, which have the ability to kill bacteria.

Triethylene glycol is used in antifreeze and de-icing solutions. It is an important ingredient in automotive antifreeze formulations to help lower the freezing point of water and prevent engine damage in cold temperatures. TEG is used in aircraft de-icing fluids to prevent ice buildup on wings and fuselages, ensuring safe operation in cold weather conditions.

TEG can be used as a humectant in a variety of products. It is used in personal care products such as lotions and creams to retain moisture and keep the skin moisturized. In the tobacco industry, it is used to maintain the moisture content of tobacco, improving the shelf life and quality of the product.

Although triethylene glycol is generally considered to have low toxicity, proper safety measures should still be taken when handling it. Prolonged or excessive contact may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. When working with TEG, always use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles, and ensure adequate ventilation. In addition, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials.

TEG can have an impact on the environment if not properly managed. It is biodegradable and should be handled and disposed of in accordance with local regulations to minimize its impact on the environment. Efforts should be made to prevent its discharge into waterways, which can cause pollution.

References

2013. Nonaqueous Lithium-Ion Capacitors with High Energy Densities using Trigol-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheets as Cathode-Active Material. ChemSusChem.
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201300465

2015. Experimental Strategies for Functional Annotation and Metabolism Discovery: Targeted Screening of Solute Binding Proteins and Unbiased Panning of Metabolomes. Biochemistry.
DOI: 10.1021/bi501388y

2020. The Biosynthesis of the Benzoxazole in Nataxazole Proceeds via an Unstable Ester and has Synthetic Utility. Angewandte Chemie International Edition.
DOI: 10.1002/anie.201915685