12ethanediol

12ethanediol, more commonly known as ethylene glycol, is an organic compound with the formula C2H6O2. It is the diol derived from ethane (ethane-1,2-diol) and has the structure HO-CH2-CH2-OH. Ethylene glycol is a colorless, viscous liquid that is miscible with water and has a mildly sweet taste. Its physical properties include a melting point of about -12.9°C and a boiling point of about 197.3°C; its density is approximately 1.11 g/cm3 at room temperature.

Industrial production of ethylene glycol is principally by the controlled hydration of ethylene oxide, often using acid or base catalysts. It is a key precursor in the manufacture of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) via reaction with terephthalic acid and is widely used as a solvent and as a heat-transfer fluid. Common applications include antifreeze formulations, de-icing fluids, hydraulic fluids, and as a chemical building block in various polymer and resin products.

Safety and handling considerations are important due to its toxicity. Ingestion or significant exposure can lead to metabolic acidosis, central nervous system depression, and kidney injury because ethylene glycol is metabolized to glycolic and oxalic acids. Treatment in cases of poisoning may involve inhibitors of alcohol dehydrogenase (such as fomepizole or ethanol) and supportive medical care. Ethylene glycol should be handled with appropriate engineering controls and personal protective equipment, stored in sealed containers away from heat, and spills should be contained to prevent environmental contamination.

Environmentally, ethylene glycol is readily biodegradable and has relatively low volatility, but high concentrations can be harmful to aquatic life, so spills should be cleaned up promptly and properly contained.