Mono Ethylene Glycol-MEG

What is MEG?

Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) is an essential chemical compound used extensively throughout industries because of its unusually combined properties. MEG is a colorless, odorless, and low-viscosity liquid; it is hygroscopic, and highly soluble in water and many organic solvents. MEG‘s chemical structure, represented by the formula C2H6O2, contains two hydroxyl (-OH) groups, making it a dihydric alcohol. These characteristics have made MEG indispensable in applications ranging from textiles and antifreeze to industrial chemical manufacturing.

Physical and Chemical Properties of MEG

Physical Properties:

• State: Liquid at room temperature
• Color: Colorless
• Odor: Odorless
• Appearance: Clear, syrupy liquid
• Melting Point: -12.9 °C (10.8 °F)
• Boiling Point: 197 °C (386 °F)
• Density: 1.113 g/cm³
• Viscosity: 0.0016 Pa·s (at 20 °C)
• Solubility: Fully miscible with water, alcohols, and most organic compounds; slightly soluble in hydrocarbons.

Chemical Properties:

• Chemical Formula: C2H6O2
• IUPAC Name: Ethane-1,2-diol
• Flammability: Flammable, with a flash point of 111 °C (232 °F)
• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested; exposure may result in kidney damage or death.

Various grades of MEG

Mono ethylene glycol is a very versatile chemical compound in wide usage, most particularly in the manufacturing of resins of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), antifreeze, coolants, and de-icing fluids. It is available in different grades to respond to these various applications, purity requirements, and performance characteristics. Following are the major grades of MEG and their uses:

Fiber Grade MEG

• This is a rather high-purity grade, important to textile and polymer industries whereby with very few impurities in the product, consistent results can be assured for producing polyester fibers, and PET resin, which are vital components of clothing, packaging, and industrial materials.

Industrial Grade MEG

• Slightly less pure than fiber-grade MEG, this type is intended for application in antifreeze and heat transfer fluids, de-icers, and industrial formulations when extreme purity is not required.

Polyester Grade MEG

• Specially designed for polyester production, this grade supports the creation of PET-based products, including durable textiles, clear plastic bottles, and packaging materials.

Antifreeze Grade MEG

• This formulation includes additives to enhance its freezing-point depression capabilities, making it ideal for automotive antifreeze, coolants, and de-icing solutions.

Low Conductivity MEG

• Engineered for electronic and semiconductor applications, this grade features reduced ionic impurities to maintain electrical insulation and prevent interference with sensitive equipment.

Application and uses Mono Ethylene Glycol.

1. Polyester Production

• The greatest proportion of MEG is used in the manufacture of polyester, where it plays a critical role in the manufacture of PET resins and polyester fibers. These are used in the manufacture of bottles, food containers, and textiles. MEG imparts strength, flexibility, and economy to these products, making it indispensable in packaging and garments.

2. Antifreeze and Coolants

• The lowering of freezing points and thermal management abilities make MEG an indispensable element in the formulation of antifreeze and coolants. MEG-based solutions protect against freezing, corrosion, and optimization of heat transfer in applications of automotive engines, aircraft systems, and marine equipment to last long in service.

3. Chemical Intermediates

• MEG is widely used as a versatile building block in the synthesis of chemical intermediates like ethers, esters, and resins. These, in turn, go into the manufacture of adhesives, paints, and surfactants, which indicates the vital role that MEG plays in the production of chemicals.

4. Humectants and Solvents

• In the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, MEG is used as a humectant to retain moisture in creams, lotions, and oral care products. Its solvent properties recommend this product for inks and dyes and some medical applications, maintaining product stability and performance.

5. Heat Transfer Fluids

• MEG is used in heat transfer fluids for industrial and HVAC systems, geothermal heating, and solar energy setups. It possesses high thermal stability and is highly efficient in the heat exchange process, which makes it an excellent choice to maintain performance under extreme conditions.

6. De-icing Solutions

• MEG freezing-point depression properties are very important in de-icing solutions on aircraft, highways, and runways. These improve safety during winter operations, especially in the aviation and transportation sectors.

7. Paper and Textile Industries

• MEG also finds application as a softener and an ingredient in dye formulations in paper and textile manufacturing. The quality of the surface improves in the case of paper and provides full, long-lasting colors to textiles.

PRODUCTION PROCESS Mono Ethylene Glycol

The production of MEG involves the oxidation of ethylene to ethylene oxide, which is then hydrolyzed to produce MEG. This reaction, C2H4O + H2O → C2H6O2, can be optimized using catalytic or non-catalytic methods. Advanced technologies ensure high purity, critical for its varied industrial applications.

SAFETY TIPS Mono Ethylene Glycol

• Personal Protection: Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate clothing.
• Ventilation: Maintain adequate airflow in areas where MEG vapors may accumulate.
• Avoid Contact: Prevent skin contact and never ingest MEG.
• Safe Storage: Store MEG in labeled, sealed containers in cool, dry areas away from ignition sources.
• Spill Management: Contain spills immediately, use absorbents, and dispose of waste in compliance with local regulations.

Packing of MEG

MEG is available in various packaging formats to suit different industrial needs:

• Drums: Plastic or steel drums (up to 220 liters) for smaller-scale requirements.
• IBCs: Intermediate Bulk Containers (1000–1800 liters) for medium-scale use, providing convenience in handling and storage.
• Bulk Containers: Large tank trucks, rail cars, or ISO tanks for high-volume transport and industrial applications.

The appropriate packaging depends on factors like required quantity, storage conditions, and transportation regulations.

TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF MEG