Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether brings a lot to the table in the chemical world. Known by chemists as 2-Phenoxyethanol, this compound shows up in formulas that call for a reliable solvent with a modest scent and strong solvency. The formula C8H10O2 points out a material combining both the glycol and phenyl ether units, which lets it behave in ways straight glycols or simple ethers do not. Clear and nearly colorless, its appearance is nothing flashy—usually seen as a slightly oily liquid. Yet, behind that simple look sits a product that changes how manufacturers and labs handle everything from ink to vaccine solutions.
Structure-wise, Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether consists of a phenyl group connected by an ether bond to an ethylene glycol chain. This structure gives it a dense, almost syrupy feel, and a specific gravity hovering around 1.11 g/mL at room temperature. I’ve held samples that pour easily but carry a weightiness typical of glycols. Don’t go searching for this chemical in the form of flakes, pearls, or powder in most labs—its stability and shelf life remain strongest as a viscous liquid, though occasionally it solidifies into a crystalline mass at low temperatures. A glance at its molecular mass (138.17 g/mol) underlines a moderate size, right where you’d expect for a solvent that doesn’t easily evaporate or catch fire.
On the specification sheet, you’ll spot clear instructions—storage in tightly sealed drums, away from oxidizers, at cool temperatures. Its HS Code is 29094910, planting it among phenol and phenol-alcohol derivatives for shipping and customs. Density stays stable across reasonable ranges of temperature, which means measures in liters tend to stay accurate, even in varied climates. It dissolves in water and a range of organic solvents, extending its usefulness from industrial solvents to raw materials for surfactants and lubricants. Personally, seeing it as a staple ingredient in metal cleaners and inks makes sense because it plays well with other materials, lifting contaminants and dissolving stubborn residues better than most alternatives.
Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether resists spontaneous breakdown, which keeps its structure intact even in reactive environments. The chemical property most users notice first is its mild, faintly floral scent, which beats the harshness of straight glycols or other alcohols. Because of low volatility, dangerous fumes don’t fill up closed spaces, but skin absorption presents a hazard. I’ve worked with it wearing nitrile gloves and full goggles, always mindful of reports about skin irritation and possible effects with chronic exposure. The molecule shows some harmful properties, particularly for workers handling gallons at a time—long contact leads to redness and, in rare cases, central nervous system symptoms, though dangers drop off at low concentrations found in most finished products. Fire risk stays low compared to ethers or classic solvents like toluene, and handling precautions in warehouses reflect a common rule of thumb—good ventilation solves most problems, but splash-proof equipment adds peace of mind.
The role of Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether as a raw material stands out in manufacturing circuits. Paints, adhesives, and old-school film developers rely on its solvency. The pharmaceutical industry blends it into injectable solutions as a preservative, where sterility and long shelf life matter. I’ve also seen its use climbing in the cosmetics sector, where it acts as a gentle solvent for fragrances and fixatives. Harmful effects come up during production and disposal—if not controlled, wastewater may carry traces that contaminate ecosystems, given that the molecule breaks down only slowly in the wild. Such risks push plants to set up specialized treatment systems, capturing and neutralizing outgoing waste to keep local water supplies clean. Chemicals with similar profiles get phased out fast if environmental problems crop up, so ongoing monitoring feels like a must for anyone sourcing or using this ether on a larger scale.
As demand for multipurpose solvents grows, conversations about safer substitutes and tighter regulation get louder. Some manufacturers turn to green chemistry processes or invent thicker, less-absorbent gloves to prevent chemical transfer. Labels now list specific density and hazardous properties right at the front of technical sheets, making it easier to cross-reference with workplace safety rules. Solutions that reduce reliance on potentially harmful chemicals often come from collaboration between chemists, buyers, and frontline workers who know what daily exposure feels like. Investments in research deliver alternatives or methods to reprocess and recycle solvent waste streams, reducing harmful emissions and generating cleaner byproducts.
Name: Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether
Other Names: 2-Phenoxyethanol, Phenoxytol
Formula: C8H10O2
Molar Mass: 138.17 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid or crystal
Specific Gravity: ~1.10-1.12 (water = 1)
Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, ether, oils
HS Code: 29094910
Density: Around 1.11 g/mL
State: Liquid at room temperature, may form crystals
Hazard: Moderate, skin and eye irritant, avoid prolonged exposure
Applications: Solvent, preservative, cleaners, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, inks, paints
Raw Material For: Surfactants, fabric softeners, detergents, emulsifiers
The long shelf-life and versatility seen in Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether mean it's not leaving the market soon. Those who work with it every day—factory workers, lab technicians, truck drivers—benefit from clear information about its density, hazardous character, and role as a raw ingredient. Factories who know the risks opt for tightly sealed piping and rapid response kits, not only to meet regulation demands but to keep disruptions from accidents down. Industry could make big gains by funding new recycling options or greener substitutes, so communities near chemical plants don't shoulder the health risk. The slow shift towards transparency, full labeling, strong workplace practices, and better waste processing shows that chemicals like Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet—they’re shared responsibilities among everyone, from import auditor to open-barrel handler.
