Vízglykol

Vízglykol is a term used in Czech to refer glycol‑based liquids dissolved in water that are used as antifreeze and heat‑transfer fluids. The most common compound in vízglykol mixtures is ethylene glycol (ethan-1,2-diol), but propylene glycol and other glycols are also used depending on the application and toxicity considerations.

Ethylene glycol is a clear, colorless, viscous liquid that is miscible with water. When mixed with water, it lowers the freezing point and raises the boiling point of the liquid, making it suitable as engine coolant and heat‑transfer fluid in automotive and industrial applications. Commercial formulations typically contain corrosion inhibitors, anti-foam agents, and dyes to aid leak detection and system protection.

Production and use: Ethylene glycol is produced industrially by the hydration of ethylene oxide, itself derived from ethylene. It is manufactured and distributed for use as antifreeze/coolant, as a heat-transfer fluid in HVAC and industrial processes, and as a chemical feedstock for further products. The exact formulation varies by intended service conditions and environmental considerations.

Applications: Common applications include automotive radiators and cooling systems, solar thermal and other industrial heat‑transfer systems, hydraulic fluids, and de‑icing or anti‑icing formulations in some transportation sectors. In consumer products, glycols may be used in cooling mixtures and de-icing solutions, always with attention to toxicity and environmental impact.

Safety and environmental aspects: Ethylene glycol is toxic to humans and animals if ingested and can cause serious metabolic harm. Proper handling, storage, spill response, and disposal are mandatory, and releases should be prevented or contained to protect aquatic life. Propylene glycol is often used as a less toxic alternative in consumer and pharmaceutical products.