Ethylene glycol (C2H6O2)

Ethylene glycol or ethyl glycol or monoethylene glycol is an organic compound with the formula C2H6O2 and CH2OH (2). This organic compound is known in the IUPAC nomenclature system as “1,2-ethanediol”. Ethylene glycol is a clear, colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a sweet taste.

Ethylene oxide reacts with water to produce ethylene glycol. This reaction can be catalyzed by acids or bases or can be carried out at neutral pH at elevated temperature. Its highest yield is obtained at acidic or neutral pH with a large amount of water. Under these conditions, 90% ethylene glycol can be obtained. During this process, some by-products are formed, including diethylene glycol (DEG) and triethylene glycol (TEG), which are separated by distillation.

Applications

It is mainly used for two purposes. It is used as a raw material in the production of polyester fibers and fiberglass, and is also used to formulate antifreeze products. Antifreeze is the most important application of this chemical compound, which accounts for more than 50% of its commercial use and is used as a raw material in the production of polyester fibers and plastics. It is also used in the paint and resin industries, as a coolant and water absorber in the natural gas industry. Since this material is cheaply available, it has many specific applications.

Maintenance Risk

This material has a low vapor pressure at room temperature, is soluble in water and alcohol, and can retain a large amount of heat before boiling. It lowers the freezing point of water and absorbs twice its own weight in water. The density of ethylene glycol at room temperature is approximately 1.2 g/cm3 and is soluble in water in all proportions.

Maintenace method in plastic tanks

Since it is a toxic compound, it is used only in closed containers. Keep glycol away from heat and sources of ignition in a cool, well-ventilated area.

Store barrels and containers containing monoethylene glycol away from tanks containing acids, or other active chemical compounds such as alkalis and oxidizers. Monoglycol is incompatible with these materials.

The tank should be installed on smooth, even concrete, asphalt or steel. No ropes, belts or other means of securing the tank should be used, and ladders and pipes should not be connected to the tank.

The temperature of transportation and storage according to the standard should not exceed 37 degrees Celsius.

Pipes and fittings should have a resistance appropriate to your intended use. The material of the fittings used in tanks to store this material can be: polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, Teflon or steel. Gaskets made of ethylene propylene diene monomer or Viton are also recommended for sealing.