[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, is ethylene glycol monobutyl ether dangerous goods?

Properties of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether

Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (Butyl glycol ether), the chemical name is 2-butoxy ethanol, the molecular formula is C6H14O2, is a colorless, slightly scented liquid. Its physical properties include a melting point of approximately -70°C, a boiling point of 171°C, a relative density of 0.902g/cm³(20°C), and a flash point of 62°C (closed cup). Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether has good solubility, can be miscible with water, alcohol, ether and other organic solvents, solubility and volatility moderate, these properties make it widely used in industry and daily applications.

The main use of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether

The use of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is very extensive, mainly in the following aspects:

1. Coatings and paint industry: ethylene glycol monobutyl ether as an excellent solvent, widely used in coatings, paints and varnishes, can improve the leveling and film-forming properties of coatings, and increase its gloss. It is also used in water-based coatings and latex paints to stabilize emulsions.

2. Cleaners and detergents: Due to its good solubility, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is used as an ingredient in cleaners and detergents, especially to remove difficult-to-remove dirt such as grease and wax.

3. Printing ink: in printing ink, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is used as solvent and cosolvent, which can adjust the viscosity of ink and improve the printing quality.

4. Textile and leather processing: In the textile industry, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is used for dyes and dyeing aids to enhance the uniformity and penetration of dyeing; in the leather industry, it is used to treat and process leather to improve its softness and Extensibility.

Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether upstream and downstream raw materials

The production of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is generally carried out by an etherification reaction of ethylene glycol and n-butanol. The main raw materials and intermediate products of its production process include:

1. Upstream feedstock:

• Ethylene glycol: This is the production of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether based on raw materials, through ethylene oxide hydration or ethylene direct hydration legal production.
• Butanol: Butanol is through the petrochemical route or fermentation method, is ethylene glycol monobutyl ether another main raw material.

1. Intermediate products: In the production process, ethylene glycol and n-butanol are etherified under the action of a catalyst to produce ethylene glycol monobutyl ether. The reaction conditions generally need to be controlled at a certain temperature and pressure to ensure the reaction efficiency and product purity.

2. Downstream Products:

• Solvent products: ethylene glycol monobutyl ether as a solvent, widely used in various coatings, cleaners and other chemical products.
• Specialty: It is also used as an intermediate for some specialty chemicals and further processed into other fine chemical products.

Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether storage method

Storage of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether requires consideration of its chemical and physical properties to ensure its safety and stability:

1. Container selection: Specially designed closed containers should be used for storage, usually made of stainless steel or coated steel to prevent leakage and volatilization.

2. Storage environment: The storage environment should be ventilated and dry, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperature. It is recommended that the storage temperature be at room temperature (15-25°C) to avoid excessive temperature leading to increased volatility.

3. Safety measures: Because ethylene glycol monobutyl ether has certain toxicity and flammability, the storage area should be away from fire and heat sources, and equipped with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment. Wear protective equipment during storage and use to prevent inhalation of vapors or contact with skin.

4. Management and identification: The storage container should clearly identify the contents, indicate the production date and expiration date, and regularly check the tightness and storage conditions of the container to ensure its stability and safety.

Conclusion

Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether as an important organic solvent, because of its excellent physical and chemical properties, has a wide range of applications in the paint, detergent, printing ink and textile leather industry. Its production relies on upstream raw materials such as ethylene glycol and n-butanol, and produces high-purity products through reasonable reaction conditions and strict process control. In order to ensure its safety in storage and use, a series of protective and management measures are needed. With the continuous growth of industrial and consumer demand, the market prospect of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether will be broader.