Triethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether, known in chemical circles as TEGDME or triglyme, offers a blend of versatility and stability many technicians and chemists value. Recognized by its CAS Number 112-49-2, this substance lines laboratory shelves as both a solvent and part of various manufacturing processes. Chemically, its formula is C8H18O4, revealing a makeup of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen arranged in a way that brings a unique combination of low reactivity and high performance in applications. For import and export, the HS Code typically sits at 2909499090, which streamlines customs processing across borders.
Triethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether usually flows as a clear, colorless liquid, which may surprise anyone who expected a powdery or crystalline structure. Its density hovers around 0.973 g/cm³ at room temperature, lighter than water but heavier than many everyday solvents. As for its melting point, users checking for flakes, powder, pearls, or solid forms will find that this ether remains in liquid state well below freezing, at approximately -40°C. Boiling occurs near 216°C, which places TEGDME firmly in the category of high-boiling ethers. Its moderate viscosity and low volatility reduce issues with rapid evaporation, a real problem with some lower molecular weight ethers.
The molecule stretches out with three ethylene glycol units, each joined by an oxygen atom, and ends capped with methyl groups. This gives the compound levels of stability and resistance to acids or bases not always seen in other ether-based solvents. In practical use, the structure blocks strong hydrogen bonding, meaning TEGDME refuses to behave like water. It won't dissolve salts or ionic substances well but handles organic materials and nonpolar molecules with ease. Because of its low reactivity, many in research or manufacturing trust TEGDME to act as an inert medium for difficult syntheses or sensitive electrolytes. Its molecular weight lands around 178.23 g/mol, so calculations for dosages or reactions stay direct.
Markets usually provide TEGDME as a liquid, shipped in sealed drums, intermediate bulk containers, or bottles tailored to lab scale needs. Some confusion can happen when comparing product grades. Industrial grades focus on bulk supply while laboratory varieties may arrive with higher purity guarantees, often 99.5% or more. As a liquid, TEGDME brings clarity and lack of color, though users must always check material data sheets before use. Flake, powder, or pearl forms simply don't exist for this molecule under standard conditions. It resists solidification at practical temperatures and won't appear as a crystal unless exposed to very low temperatures, below its freezing point, in extremely dry environments.
Chemists and engineers should never underestimate chemical safety, even with a solvent as widely adopted as TEGDME. This ether carries the typical risks associated with glycol ethers—potential harm from inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion. Its vapor does not ignite easily, but open flames or high heat can cause it to burn, releasing harmful fumes. Repeated skin contact may cause irritation, and laboratory workers always wear gloves and protective eyewear when transferring the liquid. Because TEGDME doesn’t degrade quickly in nature, any accidental release or spills demand careful cleanup. Proper waste management means collecting the solvent for controlled incineration or chemical treatment, not disposal in drains. For those working in high volumes, good ventilation and monitoring for vapor presence further reduce workplace hazards. Safety Data Sheets instruct teams to prepare for potential leaks or overexposure, emphasizing the use of fume hoods and respirators for high-risk activities.
My own time in industrial research has shown that TEGDME’s ability to dissolve lithium salts makes it a backbone material for battery electrolytes, especially as battery technologies press into new fields like electric vehicles and grid storage. Many laboratories rely on it for high temperature reactions, since the liquid won’t boil away under tough heating cycles. TEGDME offers a steady hand in organic synthesis, allowing chemists to work with organometallic compounds that might decompose in reactive or wet solvents. Commercially, it enters the production of specialty polymers, lubricants, and plasticizers. Raw material suppliers work closely with manufacturers to guarantee a steady supply chain, as the demand for reliable and stable solvents shows no sign of fading. Factories seeking alternatives to more hazardous or environmentally-damaging solvents often turn to TEGDME for its blend of performance and manageable risk profile, provided correct procedures always guide its use.
Every chemical comes with tradeoffs between function, cost, and safety. TEGDME remains less hazardous than older or more toxic glycol ethers, but it still poses enough risks to demand strong respect in storage and application. Facilities use closed system transfers, spill kits, emergency eyewash stations, and regular training to build a culture of chemical safety. Researchers continue to develop bio-based or more rapidly degradable ethers, but in settings that require the lowest reactivity, high boiling stability, and reliable solvency, few compounds beat TEGDME on all counts. To further cut risk, suppliers invest in clear labeling, updated hazard classifications, and ongoing education for staff and clients. Regulatory agencies push for reduced environmental impact through improvements in recovery and recycling processes, helping to limit the build-up of glycol ethers in soil and water over time.
