Diethylene Glycol Isooctyl Ether (DEG Isooctyl Ether)

CAS No.: 54446-79-6
Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Diethylene glycol isooctyl ether; 2-(2-(2-ethylhexoxy)ethoxy)ethanol
Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₃₀O₃
Molecular Weight: ~246.39 g/mol (approx.)
Appearance: Clear, colourless to pale yellow viscous liquid with a mild ether-like odour.

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Boiling Point: approx. 280–285 °C
• Density: approx. 0.92–0.94 g/cm³
• Vapour Pressure: < 0.001 mmHg @ 25 °C
• Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with alcohols, esters and hydrocarbons
• Thermal/Chemical Stability: Resistant to hydrolysis under neutral conditions; decomposes above ~250 °C releasing decomposition products
• Flash Point: approx. 130 °C (closed cup)

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Purity: ≥ 98% (industrial grade)
• Appearance: Free from visible particulates or haze; consistent colour per batch
• Specification Indicators: Customer-definable limits for acid value, moisture content and residual solvents
• Storage Recommendation: Store sealed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; protect from strong oxidisers and alkalies

Applications / Uses

• Coatings & Inks: High-boiling solvent that improves wetting, flow and film formation in high-temperature coatings (automotive, aerospace, industrial finishes).
• Cleaning & Degreasing: Effective in heavy-duty degreasing and machinery-cleaning formulations for oils, greases and lubricants.
• Personal Care: Used as an emollient or stabiliser in certain cosmetic formulations for improved spreadability and skin feel.
• Chemical Intermediates: Building block for specialty esters, surfactants and lubricant additives.

Safety & Handling

• Flammability: Combustible liquid; vapours may form explosive mixtures under certain conditions.
• Health Hazards:
• Inhalation: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk under normal conditions; prolonged exposure may cause dizziness or nausea.
• Skin Contact: May cause mild irritation or dryness after repeated/prolonged exposure.
• Eye Contact: Causes moderate eye irritation.
• Ingestion: Oral LD₅₀ (rat) approx. 1,400–2,000 mg/kg (indicative).
• Precautions:
• Use only in well-ventilated areas or with local exhaust ventilation.
• Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection and appropriate protective clothing.
• Keep away from ignition sources, strong oxidisers and strong alkalis.
• Ground and bond containers during transfer to prevent static accumulation.
• Spill Response: Contain spill, absorb with inert material (e.g., sand), collect for disposal and ventilate area; avoid discharge to drains.
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Avoid strong oxidising agents and strong alkalies; may decompose under excessive heat.

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed metal drums or high-quality solvent-resistant containers appropriate for industrial solvents.
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (< 30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat and incompatible materials; keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
• Shelf Life: Stable under recommended storage conditions; verify appearance and test before prolonged storage.
• Transport & Disposal: Handle and dispose per local regulations for combustible organic solvents.