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Diethylene

Diethylene glycol, commonly abbreviated DEG, is a colorless, viscous liquid used as a solvent and plasticizer. It is a dihydroxy ether formed from two ethylene glycol units linked by an ether bond, and its molecular formula is C4H10O3. It is miscible with water and has a relatively high boiling point for a glycol.

Production and structure: DEG is produced industrially through the condensation of ethylene oxide with ethylene glycol,

Applications: DEG serves as a versatile solvent for resins, dyes, and printing inks, and as a plasticizer

Safety and regulation: Diethylene glycol is toxic if ingested and can cause kidney and liver damage; severe

See also: ethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycols.

often
in
the
presence
of
a
catalyst.
The
process
can
yield
mixtures
containing
diethylene
glycol
and
higher
poly(ethylene
glycols).
DEG
is
part
of
a
family
of
glycols
used
in
various
chemical
manufacturing
processes.
for
polymers
such
as
polyvinyl
chloride.
It
is
also
used
as
an
antifreeze
component
in
certain
formulations
and
as
a
humectant
in
some
cosmetics
and
personal
care
products.
In
industrial
settings,
it
can
act
as
an
intermediate
in
the
production
of
other
glycol
ethers
and
related
chemicals.
poisoning
may
occur
with
relatively
small
doses.
It
may
irritate
the
skin
and
eyes
with
exposure.
Because
of
toxicity
concerns,
regulatory
agencies
restrict
or
limit
its
use
in
consumer
products,
particularly
cosmetics,
and
enforce
proper
handling,
storage,
and
disposal
practices
in
workplaces.