Glycol Ethers, High-Purity Solvents

Diethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (MDG)

Diethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (MDG), also known by the IUPAC name 2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethanol, is a versatile organic solvent belonging to the E-series glycol ether family. It is a clear, colorless, hygroscopic liquid characterized by a mild, ether-like odor. MDG’s chemical structure integrates both ether and alcohol functional groups, providing a unique “dual-solvency” nature. This allows the compound to act as an effective bridge between polar substances, such as water, and non-polar organic compounds.

MDG is highly valued in industrial chemistry for its high boiling point, low volatility, and excellent thermal stability. These properties make it an ideal choice for high-temperature processing and formulations requiring slow evaporation rates. However, it is important to note that MDG is classified as a reproductive toxicant (Category 2) under GHS standards, requiring stringent safety protocols and specialized handling. Despite regulatory oversight, its efficacy as a coupling agent and freezing point depressant remains critical in the aviation, automotive, and coatings industries.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

**Exceptional Solvency:** Demonstrates powerful dissolving capabilities for various resins, oils, nitrocellulose, and dyes, ensuring homogeneous formulations.
**Universal Miscibility:** Completely miscible with water and a broad spectrum of organic solvents, offering significant flexibility in solvent-borne and aqueous systems.
**Low Evaporation Rate:** Its high boiling point ensures it remains in the matrix longer, which enhances the flow, leveling, and gloss of surface coatings.
**Effective Coupling Agent:** Functions as an intermediate to stabilize mixtures of incompatible fluids, preventing phase separation in complex chemical products.
**High Flash Point:** Compared to shorter-chain ethers, MDG offers a higher flash point, reducing the risk of accidental ignition during high-temperature industrial processes.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

**Molecular Formula:** $C_5H_{12}O_3$ (CAS No. 111-77-3).
**Molecular Weight:** 120.15 g/mol.
**Boiling Point:** Approximately 194°C (381°F) at 760 mmHg.
**Flash Point:** 93°C (199°F) via Closed Cup method.
**Vapor Pressure:** Extremely low at 0.2 mmHg at 20°C, minimizing VOC emissions in stationary applications.
**Specific Gravity:** 1.021 at 20°C.
**Viscosity:** 3.48 mPa·s at 20°C, providing effective thinning properties for high-viscosity resins.
**Safety Profile:** Identified as a suspected reproductive toxicant (H361d); technical users must ensure adequate local exhaust ventilation and appropriate skin/respiratory protection.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

• Electrical and electronics
• Connectors, switches, PCB housings, terminal blocks
• Automotive
• Under-hood components, interior assemblies, cable conduits
• Wire and cable
• Insulation layers, sheathing, jacketing materials
• Construction
• Plastic fittings, conduits, insulation panels
• Consumer appliances
• Enclosures, adapters, plugs, casings
• Industrial components
• Fiber-reinforced composites, flame-retardant masterbatches
• Compatible polymers
• PA6, PA66
• PBT, PET
• PE, PP
• Blends and copolymers requiring halogen-free flame retardancy

Key Sectors

Target Industries

Discover more

Related products

Key Sectors

We’re Here to Support Your Chemical Sourcing Needs

Have a question or need a quote? Our team is here to help with product details, pricing, and global delivery options.

Send a message to us

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *