Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG)

Description of Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG)

Mono ethylene glycol (MEG) (also known as MEG, EG, 1,2-ethanediol, or 1,2-dihydroxyethane) is an organic compound with the formula C2H6O2. It is a slightly viscous liquid with a clear, colorless appearance and a sweet taste that emits virtually no odor.

It’s miscible with water, alcohol, and many other organic compounds and is primarily used in the industry for manufacturing polyester fibers and as a component in the production of antifreeze, coolants, aircraft anti-icers, and de-icers.

It is mainly used for two purposes, as a raw material in the manufacture of polyester fibers and for antifreeze formulations. It is an odorless, colorless, sweet-tasting, viscous liquid.

(MEG) is produced from ethylene via ethylene oxide, which in turn is hydrated by using either a thermal or catalytic production process.

MEG History

Ethylene glycol’s journey began in 1859 with its lab synthesis, but commercial use didn’t take off until World War I for explosives. The 1920s saw the first large-scale production plant, followed by a surge in popularity thanks to cheap ethylene oxide in the late 1920s. This led to its use in antifreeze and as a chemical building block, solidifying its place as a key industrial material.

Application and uses of Monoethylene Glycol

Monoethylene glycol (MEG) is a ubiquitous industrial chemical with a remarkably diverse range of applications. Its unique properties have propelled it to the forefront of various sectors, silently impacting numerous aspects of our daily lives. This document explores the key applications of MEG, highlighting its significance across various industries.

  • Core Component in Cooling Systems: Perhaps the most familiar application of MEG lies in its role as a critical ingredient in antifreeze and coolant formulations. MEG’s ability to significantly depress the freezing point of water mixtures makes it ideal for car radiators. This functionality prevents engine blocks from cracking during frigid temperatures, ensuring optimal vehicle performance. Beyond automotive applications, MEG circulates in closed-loop systems employed in industrial processes and HVAC equipment. In these systems, MEG facilitates efficient heat transfer and precise temperature regulation. Notably, MEG plays a vital role in solar thermal energy collection systems, transferring heat captured from the sun for electricity generation or building heating.

  • From Raw Material to Everyday Fabrics: MEG serves as a fundamental building block in the production of polyester, a cornerstone material in the textile industry. Through a reaction with terephthalic acid, MEG transforms into polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the foundation for polyester fibers and films. These, in turn, are woven into a vast array of textiles, including clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Furthermore, PET derived from MEG is utilized in the production of ubiquitous beverage and food containers. The reach of MEG extends beyond traditional clothing; it also plays a role in the production of synthetic fibers for upholstery, bedding, and even artificial turf for sporting fields.

  • Adept at Dissolving and Dispersing: MEG’s exceptional ability to dissolve a wide range of materials makes it a valuable solvent across numerous industrial applications. Paints, inks, and dyes often rely on MEG to achieve their desired consistency and ensure uniform pigment dispersion. Additionally, MEG plays a crucial role in the production of resins and adhesives, contributing to the formation of strong bonds and high-quality products. Within the pharmaceutical industry, MEG may be utilized in certain liquid medications as a solvent or carrier for active ingredients.

  • Conquering Winter’s Challenges: The freezing point depression property of MEG isn’t limited to safeguarding car engines. Deicing fluids formulated with MEG are instrumental in ensuring safe travel during winter weather. These solutions effectively remove ice buildup and prevent hazardous slippery conditions on airplanes and roadways. Beyond deicing fluids, MEG can also be found in hydraulic fluids used in snow removal equipment, facilitating efficient snow removal during winter storms.

  • Applications Beyond the Expected: The diverse applications of MEG extend far beyond the aforementioned common uses. The chemical industry leverages MEG as a raw material for the production of electrolytic capacitors, essential components in electronic devices for storing electrical energy. In the realm of wood preservation, MEG aids in preventing rot and fungus growth, particularly valuable for items displayed in museums or stored in humid environments. The leather industry also utilizes MEG in some tanning processes, and it can even be found in specific personal care products as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin.

It is paramount to acknowledge that MEG can be toxic if ingested, necessitating proper handling and disposal procedures to ensure safety. However, its versatility and beneficial properties solidify MEG’s position as a cornerstone material in various industries. This versatile chemical silently contributes to our everyday lives in more ways than we might realize.

Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG))

Packing of MEG

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) Packaging: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Transport and Storage

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) is a critical industrial chemical with a diverse range of applications. As a result, its packaging needs to be as adaptable as the product itself. This document outlines the common methods employed for MEG packaging, emphasizing the importance of selecting the most suitable option for each scenario.

Tailored Packaging Solutions:

  • Small Quantities: For volumes typically up to 230 kilograms, MEG is most commonly packaged in corrosion-resistant steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) drums. These robust containers ensure the safe storage and transportation of MEG while maintaining product integrity.

  • Medium Quantities: For larger volumes, typically up to 1000 liters, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are the preferred option. These reusable containers feature a rigid plastic body housed within a protective steel cage. This design offers a cost-effective and secure solution for transporting and storing medium quantities of MEG.

  • Bulk Quantities: For very large volumes, MEG is transported and stored in bulk storage tanks. These industrial-grade tanks, typically constructed from carbon or stainless steel, can hold significant amounts of MEG and cater to the needs of large-scale manufacturing facilities.

Factors Influencing Packaging Selection:

The selection of the most appropriate packaging for MEG hinges on several key factors:

  • Quantity: The volume of MEG being transported or stored dictates the size and type of container required. This ensures optimal efficiency and minimizes potential waste.

  • Intended Use: The final destination and application of MEG play a crucial role in packaging selection. Industrial facilities might require bulk storage tanks, while smaller quantities destined for specific uses might be best suited for drums.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Strict adherence to local and international regulations governing MEG transportation and storage is paramount. The chosen packaging must comply with all applicable regulations to ensure safety and legal compliance throughout the supply chain.

By carefully considering these factors, manufacturers and distributors can select the most suitable packaging solution for MEG. This not only ensures the safe and efficient transport and storage of this vital chemical but also minimizes environmental impact and promotes responsible handling practices.

Safety Tips of Mono Ethylene Glycol

Here are some key safety tips for handling MEG:

  • Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator in poorly ventilated areas.
  • Always work in well-ventilated areas and avoid contact with skin and eyes.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling and store MEG properly labeled in a cool, dry location.
  • In case of spills, contain the spill and seek help for large spills. For small spills, wear PPE and use absorbent materials to clean up.

Remember: MEG is toxic if ingested. Refer to the SDS for more details.

Specification of (MEG)

AppearanceColourless, transparent
Purity99.8 wt % min
Colour (Pt-Co)5 max
DEG0.08 wt % max
Water0.08 wt % max
Specific gravity, 20/20 C1.1151-1.1156
Boiling range at 0.1013 Mpa-
5% volMin. 196 C
95% volMax. 199 C
Aldehydes (as formaldehyde )8 mg/kg max
Acidity (as acetic acid)10 mg/kg max
Iron (as Fe)
0.1 mg/kg max
Inorganic chlorides (as Cl)
0.05 mg/kg max
Ash50 mg/kg max By Req=10 mg/kg max
UV Transmittance-
-220nm80 min
-275nm
95 min
-350 m99 min

Specification of Mono Ethylene Glycol

Specification of MEG

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