Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether might look like just another clear liquid to someone glancing at a bottle on a shelf, but it’s got a fingerprint all its own among solvents. The material formula is C14H30O3. The substance appears as a colorless, oily liquid. No powder, flakes, pearls, or other solid states; just that liquid profile. At room temperature, it sits with a density of about 0.86 g/cm³. The boiling point hits about 276°C, which keeps it stable in a wide range of environments. The molecular weight stands at roughly 246.39 g/mol. Looking at the structure, this ether contains an ethylene glycol backbone with two butyl groups branching out. That setup gives it both water and oil solubility, which makes it attractive for specific applications. Some raw materials feed into its production, including butyl alcohol and ethylene oxide. The HS Code usually assigned is 2909499090. Suppliers look for these numbers to keep business running smoothly with customs and international trade.
Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether comes delivered in steel drums or tanks, depending on how much someone needs. The minimum purity often measured sits above 99%, which allows people to use it in situations where quality matters. For storage, a dry, well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition works best, since the liquid can catch fire if pushed above its flash point near 118°C. Larger suppliers offer technical data sheets listing refractive index, moisture content, and acidity. Since it handles well over time, even in humid conditions, it rarely forms lumps or solidifies. In labs, the liquid is poured and measured by the liter. For larger operations, tanks can hold several tons. Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether’s stability, low viscosity, and ability to dissolve grease and oil make it popular as a solvent in paints, dyes, and resins. There’s no crystalline or powdery form, which sets it apart from chemicals typically shipped as flakes or pearls. Its use as a material in electronics cleaning and as a part of specialty solutions marks it out as indispensable in certain corners of industry.
This ether stands out for being slow to react with acids and bases. It won’t degrade easily, but exposure to strong oxidizers can cause violent reactions. The vapor may irritate the respiratory system, so a well-ventilated space is not just smart — it’s essential. Workers dealing with it use gloves and goggles to keep skin and eyes protected, since longer exposures could cause irritation. In larger spills, environmental containment becomes a priority. Since the chemical floats on water, barriers or foam can help manage leaks. Regulations for hazardous materials include clear labeling on transport, under UN 3271. This chemical can cause harm if swallowed, inhaled, or splashed onto skin, so safety datasheets direct every step from storage to spill control. Manufacturers often install local exhaust systems where the liquid is handled in volume, keeping vapor concentrations low.
In the painting industry, chemists value Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether for its performance as a slow-evaporating solvent. It extends working time in water-based coatings, helping painters achieve smooth finishes. In cleaning, precision electronics benefit from its ability to remove oils and dust without leaving a residue. The ability to act as a solubilizer means it shows up in specialty inks, wire enamels, and adhesives. The downside comes with handling. This liquid carries harmful risks, as with many organics. Prolonged skin contact can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness or dermatitis. Workers handling bulk quantities sometimes notice headaches or dizziness from vapors, which underlines the need for clear procedures. Accidental releases into drains can harm water sources, so companies set up containment and proper disposal methods. Fire departments identify it as flammable, so no open flames or sparking equipment belong near storage tanks. As a raw material, it feeds into chemical syntheses where milder conditions or dual solubility are needed.
Reducing risk starts with clear signage and training. Anyone using Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether should have personal protective gear and know where emergency showers and eyewash stations stand. For companies, installing fume hoods goes a long way. Regular checks on containers and pipelines prevent leaks before they start. Safe storage calls for closed systems and grounding to deal with static charges. Waste Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether cannot go down regular drains; chemical recycling centers or incineration serve as preferred routes. Some places use activated carbon to strip vapors from exhausts before release. Documented handling, labeling under hazardous materials (HAZMAT) guidelines, and readiness for spills all keep people and communities safe. Research continues into greener solvents, pushing industry forward, but for now, strict control and good housekeeping set the line between routine use and potential disaster.
