Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG)
Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) is a colourless, odourless, non-volatile liquid. It is completely miscible in water and many organic solvents.Ethylene chlorohydrin is derived from ethylene and then hydrolyzed to form monoethylene glycol.
For industrial use, it is produced from ethylene oxide. It is a clear and sweet vicious liquid and has a hygroscopic nature. It easily melts in water and alcohol and is difficult to melt in ether. MEG is the one of the main materials of polyethylene terephthalate, alkyd resin and synthetic fiber.
Properties Of MEG
- CAS No: 107-21-1
- HS Code: 29053100
- Chemical Formula: C2H6O2
- Molecular Weight: 62.07 g/mol
- Melting Point: -12.9 °C
- Boiling Point: 197 °C
Benefits of MEG
- Mono ethylene glycol is more commonly used as a polymer precursor but also in antifreeze as well as in a wide variety of industries.
- It is used to produce polyester fiber, anti freezing agent and coolant
- Mono ethylene glycol is also used in the manufacture of alkyd resins which are used to form a film in paints, enamels, and varnishes.
- In the gas industry, ethylene glycol is used to remove water vapour from the gas before it is processed further. Here, it is also used as a desiccant in gas pipelines to stop the formation of clathrates.
Research
Yes, MEG is toxic and should be handled with caution. It can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is important to follow proper safety procedures and guidelines when working with MEG, such as wearing protective clothing, gloves, and eyewear.
Yes, Mono Ethylene Glycol can be recycled or reused. In various applications, such as automotive antifreeze, MEG can be treated and purified to remove contaminants and then reused. Recycling processes help reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of MEG.
When working with Mono Ethylene Glycol, it is essential to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing
