2-Methoxyethanol: Properties, Uses & Safety Guide

2-Methoxyethanol (also known as methyl cellosolve) is a versatile glycol ether solvent used in various industrial and laboratory applications. Despite its excellent solvent properties, it is heavily regulated in many regions due to its toxicity and potential health hazards.

This article covers the essential details of 2-Methoxyethanol, including its chemical properties, applications, health effects, and regulatory concerns.

What Is 2-Methoxyethanol?

Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O₂
IUPAC Name: 2-Methoxyethanol
CAS Number: 109-86-4
Other Names: Methyl cellosolve, Ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGME)

2-Methoxyethanol is a clear, colorless liquid with an ether-like odor. It is miscible with water and most organic solvents, making it highly effective for dissolving resins, dyes, inks, and various chemical intermediates.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value
Appearance	Clear, colorless liquid
Molecular Weight	76.09 g/mol
Boiling Point	~124°C (255°F)
Melting Point	-85°C
Density	0.965 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility	Miscible with water and alcohols
Vapor Pressure	~5 mmHg at 20°C
Flash Point	~42°C (107°F) (closed cup)

Industrial Applications of 2-Methoxyethanol

1. Solvent for Coatings and Dyes

Used in lacquers, inks, and textile dyeing due to its ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar substances.

2. Chemical Intermediate

Serves as a precursor or solvent in:

Synthesis of esters and ethers
Pesticide formulations
Battery electrolytes

3. Electronics Industry

Employed in photolithographic processing for semiconductors and printed circuit boards.

4. Paint and Resin Industry

Enhances flow and film formation in acrylic and alkyd resins used in paints and coatings.

Health and Safety Concerns

WARNING: 2-Methoxyethanol is classified as a reproductive toxin and potential carcinogen.

Routes of Exposure:

Inhalation
Skin absorption
Ingestion

Health Effects:

Short-term: Headache, nausea, dizziness, and irritation of eyes and respiratory tract.
Long-term: Can cause bone marrow suppression, testicular damage, and teratogenic effects (birth defects).

Regulatory Status

Due to its health risks, 2-Methoxyethanol is:

Banned or restricted in the EU under REACH.
Listed as hazardous by OSHA and ACGIH in the U.S.
Subject to workplace exposure limits (WELs) in many countries.

Substitution with safer glycol ethers (like PGME or DPM) is often encouraged or required.

Safe Handling and Storage

Storage Recommendations:

Store in cool, well-ventilated areas
Keep away from heat, flames, and incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, acids)

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):

Nitrile gloves
Chemical goggles
Respiratory protection if ventilation is inadequate

Disposal:

Must be disposed of as hazardous waste per local environmental regulations. Avoid release to the environment.

Alternatives to 2-Methoxyethanol

Due to safety concerns, many industries now prefer:

Propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME)
Diethylene glycol methyl ether (DEGME)
Ethyl lactate (in green chemistry applications)

These substitutes offer similar solvent properties with reduced health risks.

Conclusion

2-Methoxyethanol is a powerful and versatile solvent, but its use requires stringent health and safety controls. As regulations tighten globally, industries are increasingly seeking safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives. For those still using EGME, proper ventilation, PPE, and exposure monitoring are non-negotiable.

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