Ethane12diols

Ethane12diols, in systematic terms ethane-1,2-diols, are a small class of vicinal diols derived from ethane by placing hydroxyl groups on the first and second carbon atoms. The principal member of this family is ethylene glycol, also called ethene-1,2-diol, with the formula C2H6O2. Ethylene glycol is a simple, two-carbon diol that contains no stereoisomers; each carbon bears one hydroxyl group and two substituents (one hydrogen and the other carbon).

Ethylene glycol is a colorless, hygroscopic liquid that is miscible with water and many organic solvents. Its industrial production is dominated by the hydration of ethylene oxide, which itself is produced from ethylene derived from fossil resources. Ethylene glycol has a high boiling point and relatively low vapor pressure for a liquid of its molecular weight, with a boiling point of about 197.3°C and a melting point of approximately −12.9°C. It is often used as a key raw material in the manufacture of polyesters (notably polyethylene terephthalate, PET), as well as a solvent, humectant, and antifreeze/cooling agent due to its ability to depress the freezing point and raise the boiling point of water.

Safety and environmental aspects are important. Ethylene glycol is toxic if ingested and can cause metabolic acidosis and kidney damage. It is subject to handling regulations and proper disposal practices; spills require containment and cleanup to prevent environmental harm. Ethane-1,2-diols in general are a subset of diols and are closely related to other glycols used in industrial chemistry.