Diethylene Glycol Monohexyl Ether

   CAS No.: 112-59-4
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Diethylene glycol monohexyl ether; 2-(2-hexyloxyethoxy)ethanol
   Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₂₂O₃
   Molecular Weight: ~190.28 g/mol
   Appearance: Colourless, mobile liquid with slight odour.

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Boiling Point: ~259.1 °C
• Melting Point: ~–33.3 °C
• Density (Relative to water): ~0.935 at ~20 °C
• Solubility in Water: ~1.7 g/100 mL at 20 °C (very low solubility)
• Flash Point: ~140.6 °C (closed cup)
• Log P (octanol/water): ~1.70

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Commercial Purity: ≥98.0% (GC)
• Appearance: Clear liquid free from visible particulates or haze.
• Specification Indicators: To meet industrial solvent grade, acid value, moisture content, and residual solvent levels should be controlled (specific values per internal/customer standard).
• Storage Recommendation: Store in sealed containers, in a cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area, protected from direct sunlight and ignition sources.

Applications / Uses

• Used as a high-boiling solvent and coalescent agent in coatings, paints, and inks due to its good solvency and leveling performance.
• Employed in cleaning and degreasing formulations, especially where controlled evaporation is required.
• Utilised in the formulation of polymers and resins, as well as in specialty chemical processes where ether-alcohol functionality provides versatility.
• Suitable as a component in industrial processes requiring low volatility, good film formation, and compatibility with organic solvents.

Safety & Handling

• Flammability: Combustible liquid; vapour may form explosive mixtures with air.
• Health Hazards:
• Inhalation: May cause respiratory tract irritation or dizziness at high concentrations.
• Skin Contact: Prolonged or repeated contact may lead to irritation.
• Eye Contact: May cause serious eye irritation.
• Precautions:
• Use only in well-ventilated areas.
• Wear protective gloves, goggles, and appropriate protective clothing.
• Avoid heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources.
• Ensure containers are properly grounded/bonded during transfer to minimize static risk.
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Avoid strong oxidising agents; material may form peroxides on prolonged exposure to air/oxygen.

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed metal drums or IBC containers compatible with high-boiling solvents.
• Storage Conditions: Store in cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources; keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
• Shelf Life: Stable under recommended storage conditions; inspect container integrity and appearance before long-term use.