[Chemical Knowledge]：The properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, and the role of ethylene glycol ethyl ether

Properties of Ethylene Glycol Ether Ethyl Ester

Chemical properties
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether (Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate), formula C6H12O3, molecular weight 132.16g/mol. It is a colorless transparent liquid with a slight ether aroma. It has a boiling point of about 156°C, a melting point of -76°C, a flash point of 49°C, and a relative density of 0.972(20°C). Its molecular structure contains ether bonds and ester bonds, so that it has the characteristics of both ether solvents and ester solvents.

Physical Properties
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether has good solubility in water, and can be arbitrarily miscible with ethanol, ether and other organic solvents. The polarity of this solvent is moderate, so it can dissolve a variety of polar and non-polar substances. Its low vapor pressure, low volatility, so in the use of the process is not volatile, can effectively maintain the performance of the solvent.

Ethylene glycol ethyl ether ethyl ester use

Coatings & Paints Ethylene glycol ethyl ether is commonly used as a solvent and co-solvent for coatings and paints. Its excellent solubility enables it to dissolve resins, pigments and additives well, provide a uniform coating, and improve the leveling and gloss of the coating. Its low volatility makes it particularly suitable for use in coating systems that require long drying times.

printing ink
In the printing industry, ethylene glycol ethyl ether is widely used in ink formulations. It can not only improve the drying speed of the ink, but also enhance the adhesion and color vividness of the ink. Its superior performance in dissolving resins and pigments makes it an indispensable component of printing inks.

Cleaning and degreasing agents
Due to the good solubility of ethylene glycol ethyl ether, it is used to formulate various industrial cleaners and degreasers, especially in electronic and precision machinery manufacturing. It can effectively remove grease, dirt and impurities, while no corrosion on the metal surface, is a superior performance of the cleaning agent composition.

chemical intermediates
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether is also used as an intermediate in certain chemical reactions. For example, in the preparation of certain drugs and pesticides, ethylene glycol ethyl ether as an intermediate or solvent, can improve the selectivity and yield of the reaction, optimize the process conditions.

Glycol ethyl ether ethyl ester upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream Feedstock
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether production relies primarily on ethylene glycol ethyl ether and acetic acid. These two raw materials are esterified to form ethylene glycol ethyl ether. Ethylene glycol ethyl ether is obtained by the etherification of ethylene glycol and ethanol under acid catalysis, and acetic acid is prepared by the oxidation of acetaldehyde. These upstream feedstocks have a wide range of industrial applications, so the supply is relatively stable.

Downstream Products
The main downstream products of ethylene glycol ethyl ether include various coatings, paints, printing inks, cleaning agents, etc. These products are widely used in construction, automotive, electronics, packaging and other industries. With the continuous development of these industries, the demand for ethylene glycol ethyl ether is also increasing.

Ethylene glycol ethyl ether storage method

Storage environment
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources. Storage temperature should be kept between 10-25°C, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. Storage containers shall be well sealed to prevent leakage and volatilization.

Container Requirements Special corrosion-resistant containers, such as stainless steel or specially treated steel drums, shall be used for storage of ethylene glycol ethyl ether. Ordinary steel containers shall be avoided during storage to prevent corrosion and leakage. Vessels shall be provided with safety valves and ventilation to prevent accidents.

Precautions When storing and using ethylene glycol ethyl ether, avoid mixing with oxidants, acids and other chemicals to prevent chemical reactions. Operators should wear protective gloves, protective glasses and other personal protective equipment to avoid direct contact to prevent skin irritation or other health hazards.

Safety and environmental protection

Security
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether has certain toxicity to the human body, and its vapor and liquid have irritating effects on the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure may cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Therefore, necessary protective measures should be taken during use and storage to ensure good ventilation and avoid inhalation of vapors and skin contact.

Environmental requirements
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether is an organic solvent, which has certain pollution to the environment. Disposal shall be carried out in accordance with local environmental regulations to avoid direct discharge into water or soil. The waste shall be sent to a qualified waste disposal institution for safe disposal to reduce environmental pollution.

Market Prospects

Demand growth
With the rapid development of coatings, paints, printing inks and other industries, the demand for ethylene glycol ethyl ether ethyl ester shows a steady growth trend. In particular, the promotion and application of environmentally friendly coatings and high-performance inks have further promoted the market demand for ethylene glycol ethyl ether.

Technical progress
With the continuous progress of production technology, the production cost of ethylene glycol ethyl ether is gradually reduced, and the quality is further improved. This not only improves the market competitiveness of the product, but also promotes its application and promotion in more fields.

international trade
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether has broad trade prospects in the international market. The increasing demand for high-quality solvents in Europe, America and the Asia-Pacific region, especially in high-performance coatings and environmentally friendly inks, provides a broad market space for domestic manufacturers.

Ethylene glycol ethyl ether, as an important chemical product, has excellent physical and chemical properties, a wide range of applications and good market prospects. Through scientific storage and safe use methods, it can give full play to its advantages in various fields and promote the sustainable development of related industries.