EthylenoxidAbkömmlinge

Ethylene oxide derivatives, often referred to as Ethylenoxidabkömmlinge in German, are a broad class of chemical compounds synthesized from ethylene oxide. Ethylene oxide itself is a highly reactive cyclic ether. Its ring-opening reactions with various nucleophiles are the primary pathways for producing its derivatives. The addition of ethylene oxide to molecules containing active hydrogen atoms, such as alcohols, phenols, amines, and carboxylic acids, leads to the formation of ethoxylates.

These ethoxylates are characterized by the presence of repeating oxyethylene units (-CH2-CH2-O-) attached to the parent molecule. The length of the polyoxyethylene chain can be precisely controlled, influencing the physical and chemical properties of the resulting derivative. This versatility makes ethylene oxide derivatives valuable in a wide array of industrial and consumer applications.

Common examples include nonionic surfactants, which are extensively used as detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, and dispersants in household cleaning products, industrial processes, and agriculture. Polyethylene glycols (PEGs), another significant group of ethylene oxide derivatives, find applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and as lubricants. Ethoxylated amines are employed as corrosion inhibitors and emulsifiers. The reactivity of ethylene oxide also allows for its use in the production of crosslinking agents and other specialty chemicals. However, due to the reactivity and potential toxicity of ethylene oxide, its derivatives require careful handling and manufacturing processes.