"Dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether is a commonly used organic solvent, with the chemical formula C7H16O3."
-Deshangchemical
Dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether is a commonly used organic solvent, with the chemical formula C7H16O3. Here are the key details about it:
Basic Properties of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether
Chemical name: dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, also known as di-pentanediol methyl ether.
Category: It belongs to the category of alcohol ether solvents and is a homologous substance of propylene glycol methyl ether.
Physical properties: Usually a colorless and transparent liquid with a slight ether-like odor. It has both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, and can be miscible with water and various organic solvents. Its evaporation rate is relatively slow.
Core Characteristics of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether
Chemical Properties of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether
Molecular formula: C₇H₁₆O₃. Structurally, it is composed of two propylene glycol units connected by an ether bond and contains one methoxy group (-OCH₃).
Solubility: It has both hydrophilicity (hydroxyl groups) and lipophilicity (ether chains), and can be mixed with water, alcohols, ketones, and hydrocarbon solvents. It is suitable for balancing both polar and non-polar systems.
Vaporization rate: It is slower than propylene glycol methyl ether (helping to prolong the open time and reduce coating defects such as pinholes and orange peel).
2. Physical Properties of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether
Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid, with a boiling point of approximately 185-190°C and a flash point of about 70°C (closed cup test), classified as a flammable liquid.
Odor: Weak ether-like odor, with low irritation, suitable for application in cosmetics and personal care products.
The main applications of diethylene glycol monomethyl ether
Due to its excellent solubility and sustained-release properties, it is widely applied in the following fields:
Coatings, inks and resins industry: As high-performance solvents, they are used in water-based paints, oil-based paints, printing inks and cleaners, and can effectively regulate the drying speed and improve the leveling property.
Cleaning agents and degreasers: Commonly used in industrial cleaning agents, metal degreasers, and electronic product cleaning agents, they can effectively remove grease and have a slower evaporation rate.
Household chemicals: As a sustained-release solvent or carrier, used in cosmetics, perfumes, household cleaners and personal care products.
Other industrial fields: It is used as a solvent or additive in industries such as pesticides, textiles, and leather processing.
Safety and Regulations of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether
Safety: It is a substance with low to moderate toxicity. It is irritating to the eyes and skin. Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause discomfort. When using, it is necessary to do so in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective equipment (such as gloves, goggles).
Environmental friendliness: Biodegradable, but waste liquid must be handled in accordance with regulations to prevent environmental pollution.
Key Points on Safety and Environmental Protection
Health Risks
Acute toxicity: LD₅₀ (oral administration to rats) is approximately 2-5 g/kg. It is considered low toxicity, but long-term exposure may cause dry skin and eye conjunctiva irritation.
Occupational exposure limit: It is recommended to wear nitrile gloves and goggles during operation, and ensure that the local exhaust ventilation (LEV) concentration is lower than the OSHA TWA 100 ppm.
2. Environmental Behavior
Biodegradability: Can be decomposed by microorganisms, but high-concentration wastewater requires pre-treatment (such as activated carbon adsorption, Fenton oxidation).
Ecotoxicity: Has certain effects on aquatic organisms. Discharge must comply with the "Integrated Wastewater Discharge Standard" (GB 8978-1996).

