14dioxaan

1,4-Dioxane, often referred to simply as dioxane, is a heterocyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C4H8O2. It is a colorless liquid with a faint sweet odor. 1,4-Dioxane is a cyclic ether, meaning it contains an oxygen atom within a ring structure. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents, which contributes to its widespread use.

Historically, 1,4-dioxane has been used as a stabilizer for chlorinated solvents, particularly 1,1,1-trichloroethane. It has also found applications as a solvent in various industrial processes, including the manufacturing of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and adhesives. Its use as a solvent is due to its ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar substances.

In recent years, concerns have arisen regarding the environmental persistence and potential health effects of 1,4-dioxane. It is not readily biodegradable and can persist in groundwater and soil. Regulatory bodies in many countries have established guidelines or limits for its presence in drinking water due to its classification as a probable human carcinogen by some agencies. Its presence in consumer products, often as a byproduct of ethoxylation in detergents and cosmetics, has also led to increased scrutiny and efforts to reduce its use or eliminate it from formulations.