1. Properties:

• Appearance and physical form: 2-Methoxyethanol is a clear colorless liquid with a mild ether odor. Available in various grades (technical, reagent, HPLC, anhydrous) with purity from ≥99.0% to ≥99.8%.

• Solubility: 2-Methoxyethanol is fully miscible with water, ethanol, ether, acetone, glycerol, N,N-dimethylformamide and most organic solvents. Its dual hydrophilic (alcoholic) and lipophilic (ether) nature allows it to dissolve a wide range of polar and nonpolar substances, including oils, resins, nitrocellulose, dyes, and varnishes.

• Chemical properties: 2-Methoxyethanol is a glycol ether that combines the properties of alcohol and ether. It is a stable, colorless, flammable liquid with a boiling point of 124–125°C and a flash point of 39–40°C. Vapors are heavier than air (vapor density 2.62) and may form explosive mixtures with air (explosive limits: 1.8–24.5% vol.). The substance may form explosive peroxides upon contact with air or light and reacts with strong oxidizing agents. 2-Methoxyethanol is toxic and classified as a reproductive toxicant.

2. Applications:

• Paints, coatings and printing inks (main): Widely used as a solvent for nitrocellulose, natural and synthetic resins, lacquers, enamels, and wood stains. Used as a paint thinner, quick-drying agent for varnishes, and coating thinner. It is a component of printing inks, dyes and epoxy coatings.

• Aviation fuel: Used as an anti-icing additive for aviation fuel.

• Textile and leather industry: Used as a penetrating and leveling agent in textile dyeing. Used in leather processing.

• Electronics industry: Used in photolithography processes in the semiconductor industry.

• Laboratory and analytical applications: Used as a standard and solvent for HPLC, as well as in spectrophotometric determinations.

• Chemical synthesis: Serves as a precursor in organic synthesis, including the synthesis of the Vaska complex and iridium-based photocatalysts.

• Other applications: Industrial cleaners and degreasers, plastics in contact with food products, photography.

3. Method of production:

• Industrial process: 2-Methoxyethanol is produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with methanol. The product is purified by rectification.

4. Safety information:

• Hazard classification: 2-Methoxyethanol is classified as a hazardous substance with hazard statements: R10 (Flammable), R20/21/22 (Harmful if inhaled, in contact with skin and if swallowed), R60 (May impair fertility), R61 (May harm the unborn child). Signal word: Danger. UN number: 1188 (Class 3, Packing Group III). NFPA 704: Health Hazard 2, Flammability 2, Instability 1.

• Health hazards: Vapors may cause coughing, sore throat, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and confusion. May be absorbed through the skin. Causes eye and skin irritation. Prolonged exposure may cause damage to the central nervous system, blood, bone marrow, kidneys, and liver. Classified as a reproductive toxicant.

• First aid measures: If in eyes – rinse with water; on skin – wash with water and soap; if inhaled – fresh air; if swallowed – rinse mouth, do NOT induce vomiting, give water, seek medical attention.

• Flammability and explosiveness: Flammable liquid (flash point 39–40°C). Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air (1.8–24.5% by volume). In case of fire use spray water, foam, powder or CO₂.

• Storage and stability: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. The substance may form peroxides; often stabilized with BHT. Shelf life: 24–60 months in sealed original containers.

• Regulatory compliance: 2-Methoxyethanol (CAS#109-86-4, EC#203-713-7) is listed in EINECS, TSCA, DSL registries. Regulated by OSHA, NIOSH (PEL: 0.1 ppm) and ACGIH (TLV: 0.1 ppm). Classified as a reproductive toxicant (Category 1B). For complete information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).