[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, hazards of diethylene glycol butyl ether to human body

Properties of Diethylene Glycol Butyl Ether

Diethylene glycol butyl ether (Diethylene Glycol Butyl Ether, DEGBE), chemical formula C8H18O3, is a colorless transparent liquid with a slight ether odor. It has a boiling point of about 231°C, a flash point of 116°C and a density of 0.95g/cm³. Diethylene glycol butyl ether has good water solubility and solvent ability, and can be miscible with water, alcohols and a variety of organic solvents. Its high boiling point and low volatility allow it to exhibit good stability and low toxicity in a variety of applications.

Diethylene glycol butyl ether use

As an excellent solvent, diethylene glycol butyl ether is widely used in many industrial fields. It is used as an emulsifier and dispersant in the paint and coatings industry, which can improve the leveling and uniformity of coatings. In cleaners and degreasers, diethylene glycol butyl ether is effective in dissolving grease and dirt, and is the main component of many household and industrial cleaning products. It is also used in textile printing and dyeing, leather processing, ink manufacturing and other fields to adjust viscosity and improve softness. In the agricultural field, it acts as a co-solvent for pesticides and herbicides, helping active ingredients to better penetrate and spread.

Diethylene glycol butyl ether upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream raw materials

The production of diethylene glycol butyl ether usually requires ethylene glycol and n-butanol as the main raw materials. Ethylene glycol is produced by the hydration of ethylene oxide, which is produced by the oxidation of ethylene. n-Butanol is typically produced from butene or propylene in petroleum or natural gas by hydrogenation. Through the etherification reaction of these two raw materials, diethylene glycol butyl ether can be synthesized. Its production process includes reaction, separation, purification and other steps to ensure the purity and quality of the product.

Downstream Products

As a solvent or additive, diethylene glycol butyl ether is widely used in various downstream products, such as paints, coatings, detergents, pesticides, cosmetics, etc. These downstream products play an important role in many fields such as construction, automobiles, daily chemicals, and agriculture. Through compatibility with other chemicals, diethylene glycol butyl ether can significantly improve product performance and meet the needs of different application scenarios.

Diethylene glycol butyl ether storage method

Since diethylene glycol butyl ether has a certain chemical activity, its storage requires special attention. It should be stored in a cool, ventilated and dry place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment to prevent product deterioration. Storage containers shall be made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or glass fiber reinforced plastic, to ensure good sealing and prevent leakage and volatilization. Diethylene glycol butyl ether should be kept away from fire, heat and strong oxidants to avoid chemical reactions caused by contact. The storage area should be equipped with necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, ventilation devices, etc., to deal with emergencies. Regularly check storage conditions and container conditions to ensure long-term product stability and safety.

Safe handling and environmental protection measures

Attention should be paid to safety protection during the use and handling of diethylene glycol butyl ether. Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, protective glasses and protective clothing, to avoid skin and eye contact. If leakage occurs, it should be ventilated and cleaned in time to prevent inhalation of high-concentration steam. The treatment of diethylene glycol butyl ether waste liquid and waste shall comply with local environmental protection regulations, avoid direct discharge to the natural environment, and prevent pollution of water and soil. Through reasonable recovery and treatment measures, the impact on the environment can be reduced and the ecological security can be guaranteed.

Market prospects and trends

With the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization, the market demand for diethylene glycol butyl ether continues to grow. Especially in the fields of coatings, detergents and pesticides, its superior performance makes it an indispensable chemical raw material. In the future, with the enhancement of environmental awareness and the development of green chemical industry, the production process of diethylene glycol butyl ether will be further optimized and developed in a more efficient and environmentally friendly direction. With the continuous expansion of emerging applications, such as electronic chemicals and bio-based materials, the market prospects of diethylene glycol butyl ether will be broader.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material, diethylene glycol butyl ether has a wide range of applications and good market prospects. Its excellent physical and chemical properties make it play a key role in many fields. Through scientific production and storage management, combined with strict safety and environmental protection measures, it can give full play to its advantages and meet the needs of different industries. With technological progress and market development, diethylene glycol butyl ether will continue to occupy an important position in the chemical industry, providing strong support for the development of related fields.