Tetraethylene glycol

Synonyms

3,6,9-Trioxaundecane-1,11-diol; Ethanol, 2,2'-(oxybis(2,1-ethanediyloxy))bis-; Ethanol, 2,2'-(oxybis(ethyleneoxy))di-; Hi-Dry; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Ethylene Glycols

Description

Colorless hygroscopic liquid; [Hawley] Colorless to straw colored hygroscopic liquid; [HSDB]

Sources/Uses

Used as a solvent (nitrocellulose, coatings, adhesives, inks, lacquers, lubricants, metalworking fluids, and textile finishes); Also used to extract other solvents, to soften paper tissue, and to make other chemicals; [HSDB] Used as a solvent, extractant, plasticizer, humectant (natural gas), and lubricant (textiles); Also used in cement grinding and brake fluid manufacturing; [Reference #1]

Comments

In rat studies, testicular abnormalities and congenital anomalies have been reported. [REPROTOX] In oral lethal dose studies, rats exhibited heavy breathing, tremors, and sluggishness; [Reference #1] An irritant; [MSDSonline] See "Ethylene glycol."

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

Explanatory Notes

VP = 4.65E-05 at 26 deg C; [ChemIDplus]

must be preheated

Other CNS neurotoxin

Yes

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Metal Machining
• Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides)
• Petroleum Production and Refining
• Pulp and Paper Processing
• Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing)
• Working with Glues and Adhesives