Glycol Ethers, High-Purity Solvents

Ethylene Glycol Mono-2-Ethylhexyl Ether (2-EHG)

Ethylene Glycol Mono-2-Ethylhexyl Ether (2-EHG), identified by CAS No. 1559-35-9, is a high-boiling, slow-evaporating glycol ether that serves as a versatile solvent and coalescing agent in industrial chemistry. Chemically, it is an ethylene glycol monoether substituted with a branched 8-carbon alkyl chain (2-ethylhexyl). This structural configuration provides a unique balance of hydrophobicity and hydrophilic functionality.

Compared to shorter-chain glycol ethers, 2-EHG exhibits significantly lower volatility and limited water solubility, making it an ideal candidate for applications requiring extended open time or low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) profiles. It functions efficiently as a powerful surface tension reducer and is highly effective in solubilizing organic resins, oils, and greases. Because of its high flash point and low vapor pressure, it is often favored for safety and regulatory compliance in high-performance coatings, industrial cleaning formulations, and specialty chemical synthesis, where it facilitates superior film formation and substrate wetting.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Low Volatility: Extremely low evaporation rate ensures long-lasting performance and contributes to low-VOC compliance.
Excellent Coalescing Power: Facilitates high-quality film formation in waterborne and solvent-borne coatings by lowering the Minimum Film Forming Temperature (MFFT).
Surface Tension Reduction: Acts as a powerful surfactant-like solvent, improving substrate wetting and leveling.
High Solvency: Exhibits strong coupling ability for oils, fats, and resins, making it effective for heavy-duty cleaning.
Hydrophobic Character: Offers better water resistance in cured films compared to shorter-chain ethylene glycol ethers.
Safety Profile: High flash point minimizes fire hazards during storage and processing.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₂₂O₂
Molecular Weight: 174.28 g/mol
Boiling Point: Approximately 229°C (444°F) at 760 mmHg.
Flash Point: ~115°C (239°F) (Closed Cup), classifying it as a combustible liquid rather than flammable.
Vapor Pressure: Very low, <0.01 mmHg at 20°C, reducing inhalation exposure risks.
Specific Gravity: 0.890–0.895 at 20°C.
Solubility: Limited solubility in water (~0.1%–0.2% by weight); highly miscible with most organic solvents, alcohols, and hydrocarbons.
Refractive Index: Approximately 1.436 at 20°C.
Odor: Mild, characteristic ether-like odor.