monoglyme

Monoglyme is the common name for 1,2-dimethoxyethane, a glyme family ether used as a polar aprotic solvent. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with two methoxy groups linked by an ethylene backbone, giving it the formula C4H10O2. It is also known as dimethoxyethane or ethylene glycol dimethyl ether.

Monoglyme is characterized by moderate polarity and a relatively low viscosity for an ether. It has a boiling point around 85–87 °C and is miscible with water and many organic solvents. In solutions, it can stabilize cations, notably lithium ions, which makes it useful as a solvent in various organometallic and battery electrolyte systems. As part of the glyme family, monoglyme can serve as a coordinating solvent, often used in conjunction with salts to improve solvation.

Production and availability: monoglyme is typically produced by acid-catalyzed etherification of ethylene glycol with methanol, yielding the dimethyl ether derivative of ethylene glycol. It is commercially available from chemical suppliers and is often used as a component in mixtures for specialized organic synthesis and electrochemical applications.

Applications: its primary roles include a solvent for organic synthesis, a component of lithium battery electrolytes, and a stabilizing medium for certain organometallic reagents. It is also employed as a co-solvent with other glymes to tune solvent properties such as polarity and coordinating ability.

Safety and handling: monoglyme is flammable and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air. It can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from oxidizers, heat sources, and moisture. Prolonged exposure or improper handling can lead to health risks; use in a fume hood with appropriate personal protective equipment.