Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol)

CAS No.: 112-34-5
Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Diethylene glycol monobutyl ether; 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol
Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₈O₃
Molecular Weight: ~162.23 g/mol
Appearance: Colourless to almost colourless clear liquid

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Melting Point: ~-68 °C
• Boiling Point: ~230–234 °C at 1013 hPa
• Density: ~0.951–0.954 g/cm³ at 20 °C
• Refractive Index: ~1.43 (n²⁰ᴰ)
• Solubility in Water: Miscible / very high solubility depending on specification
• Flash Point: ~78 °C (closed cup)

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Commercial Purity: ≥ 99.0% (GC)
• Appearance: Clear liquid, free from visible particulates or haze
• Specification Indicators: Acid value, moisture content, impurity levels (e.g., 2-butoxyethanol < 0.5%) per customer or industrial standards
• Storage Recommendation: Store sealed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place; avoid direct sunlight and prolonged heat exposure

Applications / Uses

• Solvent for Coatings, Inks & Paints: Good solvency, low odour, and relatively high boiling point for surface coatings and inks.
• Cleaning & Degreasing Agents: Effective in aqueous and non-aqueous cleaning formulations.
• Formulation Intermediate: Used in surface-treatment chemicals, textile auxiliaries, and specialty chemical formulations.
• Coalescing Agent: Improves film formation and flexibility in waterborne coatings.

Safety & Handling

• Flammability: Combustible liquid; vapours may form explosive mixtures with air
• Health Hazards:
• Inhalation: May cause respiratory irritation at high vapour concentrations
• Skin Contact: Prolonged or repeated contact may cause mild irritation or dryness
• Eye Contact: May cause serious eye irritation
• Precautions:
• Use in well-ventilated areas or with exhaust ventilation
• Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection, and suitable clothing
• Avoid ignition sources and static discharge; ground/bond containers when transferring
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Avoid strong oxidising agents, excessive heat, and open flames; decomposition may release hazardous gases

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed, solvent-compatible containers (e.g., steel drums, HDPE) ensuring minimal moisture ingress
• Storage Conditions: Store in cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from sunlight, heat, and incompatible materials; keep container tightly closed
• Shelf Life: Stable under recommended conditions; inspect container integrity and appearance before prolonged use