Monoethylene Glycol (MEG)
Diethylene Glycol (DEG)

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) — Technical Product Overview

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) is a primary aliphatic diol widely used as an industrial raw material in polyester manufacturing, antifreeze formulations, heat transfer fluids, and chemical synthesis processes. Due to its hygroscopic nature, high water miscibility, and reliable thermal properties, MEG remains one of the most important bulk chemicals in global petrochemical markets.

Chemical Identity

  • Chemical Name: Monoethylene Glycol
    • Synonyms: Ethylene Glycol, MEG
    • Molecular Formula: C₂H₆O₂
    • Molecular Weight: 62.07 g/mol
    • CAS Number: 107-21-1
    • Appearance: Clear, colorless, hygroscopic liquid
    • Odor: Mild odor
    • Physical State: Slightly viscous liquid
    • Solubility: Completely miscible with water, alcohols, and many organic solvents
    • Boiling Point: Approximately 197°C
    • Freezing Point: Approximately −13°C
    • Density: Approx. 1.11 g/cm³ at 20°C

Production Process

Monoethylene Glycol is primarily produced through the hydration of ethylene oxide (EO). In this process, ethylene oxide reacts with water to generate MEG as the main product, while smaller quantities of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Triethylene Glycol (TEG) are formed as by-products.

Modern petrochemical plants employ catalytic and advanced thermal technologies to improve:
• MEG selectivity
• process efficiency
• energy optimization
• product purity levels

Key Industrial Advantages

  • High chemical purity and consistent quality
    • Excellent water miscibility and thermal stability
    • Strong performance in cooling and heat transfer systems
    • Essential raw material for global polyester production
    • Broad industrial compatibility across multiple sectors
    • Stable international demand in petrochemical and manufacturing industries

Storage & Handling

  • Store in tightly closed containers in well-ventilated areas
    • Protect from moisture contamination
    • Keep away from strong oxidizing agents
    • Use appropriate industrial safety procedures during handling

 



Industrial Applications

  1. Polyester & PET Manufacturing

MEG is a critical feedstock in the production of:
• polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin
• polyester fibers
• textile yarns
• packaging films
• plastic bottles and containers

The polyester industry represents the largest global consumption sector for MEG.

  1. Antifreeze & Coolant Formulations

MEG is extensively used in:
• automotive antifreeze
• engine coolants
• industrial cooling systems
• HVAC heat transfer fluids

Its low freezing point and high boiling point make it highly effective for temperature control applications.

  1. De-Icing & Heat Transfer Applications

MEG-based formulations are widely applied in:
• aircraft de-icing fluids
• runway anti-icing systems
• industrial refrigeration systems
• closed-loop heat transfer operations

  1. Chemical Intermediate

MEG serves as an important intermediate in the production of:
• resins
• solvents
• surfactants
• plasticizers
• synthetic lubricants
• glycol ethers

Supply Availability

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) is supplied by Tradella Company for industrial and export markets, supporting manufacturers and trading partners across petrochemical, textile, packaging, and industrial sectors.

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — Technical Overview

Diethylene glycol (DEG) is a clear, colorless, hygroscopic organic compound widely used as a solvent, humectant, coolant component, and chemical intermediate in industrial applications.

Chemical Identity

  • Chemical Formula: C₄H₁₀O₃
    • Molecular Weight: 106.12 g/mol
    • Appearance: Clear, colorless, nearly odorless, viscous liquid
    • Boiling Point: 244–245 °C
    • Density: ~1.118 g/cm³ at 20 °C
    • Solubility: Completely miscible with water, alcohols, and many polar organic solvents

Production

DEG is primarily produced during the hydrolysis of ethylene oxide. In this process, ethylene oxide reacts with water to form monoethylene glycol (MEG), while secondary reactions between ethylene oxide and MEG generate diethylene glycol (DEG) and higher glycols such as triethylene glycol (TEG). Process conditions and water-to-oxide ratios are carefully controlled to optimize product distribution.

Key Applications

  • Unsaturated polyester resins and polyurethane formulations
    • Plasticizers and chemical intermediates
    • Industrial solvents for inks, dyes, oils, and textile processing
    • Component in brake fluids, antifreeze blends, and heat transfer fluids
    • Humectant in industrial adhesives, tobacco processing, and specialty formulations

  • Why Industries Use It

    • Strong solvency for resins, dyes, and polar organic compounds
      • Excellent hygroscopic and moisture-retention properties
      • High boiling point and thermal stability
      • Low volatility compared to lighter glycols
      • Versatility in chemical processing and industrial manufacturing

    Safety Note

    Diethylene glycol is toxic if ingested and should be handled in accordance with appropriate industrial safety procedures. Proper storage, ventilation, and personal protective equipment are recommended during handling.

    Availability

    High-purity Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is supplied by Tradella Company for a broad range of industrial and manufacturing applications, with consistent quality and reliable supply options.