Glycol Ethers, High-Purity Solvents

Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether (EPH)

Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether (EPH), systematically known as 2-Phenoxyethanol, is a versatile aromatic glycol ether with the molecular formula C₈H₁₀O₂. It is a high-boiling, slow-evaporating, colorless, and slightly oily liquid with a faint, pleasant balsamic odor. Chemically, it is produced by the hydroxyethylation of phenol. EPH is distinguished by its dual-functional nature, containing both an ether linkage and a hydroxyl group, which allows it to act as an exceptional solvent for both polar and non-polar substances.

In the global chemical market, EPH is a critical component across diverse industries. It is most recognized as a “gold standard” preservative in the personal care and cosmetic industry due to its potent antimicrobial properties against Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, its high boiling point and low vapor pressure make it an ideal coalescing agent in water-borne coatings and a primary solvent in high-quality printing inks. Its chemical stability and compatibility with various surfactants and resins make it a foundational ingredient in modern industrial and consumer formulations.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Broad-Spectrum Preservation: Exhibits excellent efficacy against bacteria, yeasts, and molds, extending the shelf life of aqueous formulations.
Superior Solvency: Effectively dissolves various resins, cellulose acetate, dyes, and specialized oils, bridging the gap between oil and water phases.
Low Volatility: Its low vapor pressure reduces Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, contributing to safer working environments and better film formation in coatings.
pH Stability: Maintains chemical integrity and performance across a wide pH range (3–10), offering significant formulation flexibility.
Fixative Properties: Acts as a fragrance fixative, slowing the evaporation of volatile aromatic components in perfumes and soaps.
Excellent Compatibility: Can be used in combination with other preservatives (like parabens or potassium sorbate) to achieve synergistic antimicrobial effects.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

CAS Number: 122-99-6
Molecular Weight: 138.16 g/mol
Boiling Point: 244.3°C (471.7°F) at 760 mmHg, facilitating high-temperature stability.
Flash Point: 121°C (250°F) – Closed Cup, classifying it as a non-flammable liquid for standard storage.
Vapor Pressure: Very low (<0.01 mmHg at 20°C), ensuring minimal loss through evaporation.
Specific Gravity: 1.107 at 20°C (Water = 1.0).
Solubility: Moderately soluble in water (approx. 2.6% by weight at 20°C); completely miscible with ethanol, diethyl ether, and many organic solvents.
Refractive Index: 1.537–1.539, contributing to high optical clarity in transparent formulations.