Chemical Name: Triethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether
Common Synonyms: Methyl Triethylene Glycol, M-TriEGME
Molecular Formula: C7H16O4
Physical Appearance: Colorless liquid with a mild, characteristic odor
Common Uses: Solvent for resins, dyes, inks, aerospace applications, and as an additive in industrial cleaning fluids
CAS Number: 112-35-6
GHS Classification: May cause mild skin and eye irritation, with effects including redness or discomfort; not classified as flammable, but can support combustion at elevated temperatures; low acute toxicity by oral, dermal, and inhalation routes
Route of Exposure: Skin, eyes, inhalation of mist or vapor, ingestion
Potential Health Concerns: Prolonged exposure to large amounts can lead to central nervous system effects like drowsiness or headache; repeated contact can dry or crack skin
Main Ingredient: Triethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether, commonly present at 98% or more by weight
Impurities: Trace amounts of related glycol ethers or water, usually less than 2%
Inhalation: Move to fresh air, support breathing if symptoms like coughing or lightheadedness develop, seek medical advice if effects persist
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing, wash exposed area with plenty of water and mild soap; prolonged or repeated contact can worsen irritation
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with running water for several minutes while holding eyelids open, consult a physician if discomfort continues
Ingestion: Rinse mouth, avoid inducing vomiting, seek medical advice, and monitor for symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or drowsiness
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide
Protective Equipment for Firefighters: Full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus are strongly recommended
Hazardous Combustion Products: Burning can release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating fumes
Special Risks: Spilled liquid can heat and release flammable vapors near fire conditions, especially in confined or unventilated spaces
Personal Protection: Wear gloves and safety goggles, ventilate area, prevent exposure through open skin
Spill Response: Contain spill with non-combustible materials like sand or earth, collect liquid in appropriate container, avoid letting it reach drains or surface water
Environmental Precautions: Prevent runoff into soil or water; glycol ethers can contaminate aquatic environments and persist for some time
Handling: Work in well-ventilated areas, avoid breathing vapors and minimize direct contact with skin, do not eat or drink in work area
Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition and direct sunlight; incompatible with strong acids and oxidizers
Other Precautions: Regularly check containers for leaks or signs of deterioration, keep away from foodstuffs and animal feed
Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust ventilation to control vapor levels in working area
Personal Protective Equipment: Chemical-resistant gloves, goggles or face shield, and protective clothing are helpful for minimizing exposure
Respiratory Protection: NIOSH-approved respirator in areas with inadequate ventilation or where vapor concentrations may be high
Hygiene Measures: Wash hands before eating, drinking, or smoking; remove contaminated clothing and clean before reuse
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild glycol ether odor
Boiling Point: Typically ranges from 245-250°C
Melting Point: Below -30°C
Vapor Pressure: Very low at room temperature
Solubility: Miscible with water and many organic solvents
Flash Point: Around 120°C (closed cup)
Density: About 1.04 g/cm³
Viscosity: Higher than water, flows readily
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended handling and storage conditions
Reactivity: May react with strong oxidizers or acids, may form hazardous products by decomposition at high temperatures
Hazardous Polymerization: Not expected under normal use
Decomposition Products: Combustion may release carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and irritant gases
Acute Oral Toxicity: Low toxicity by ingestion; large doses may cause upset stomach or drowsiness
Skin Corrosion/Irritation: Mildly irritating to skin on prolonged or repeated exposure
Eye Effects: Mild irritation with redness possible on contact
Inhalation Effects: High concentrations may cause headache, nausea, or transient drowsiness
Chronic Effects: Studies show no clear evidence of reproductive or developmental toxicity in humans, unlike other glycol ethers with shorter chains
Sensitization: Not known to cause allergic skin reactions
Aquatic Toxicity: Moderate toxicity to aquatic life at high concentrations; not highly bioaccumulative
Environmental Persistence: Biodegradable in soil and water, breakdown products may include simpler ethers and alcohols
Disposal Concerns: Prevent release into drains, soils, or water bodies; large spills can threaten plant and aquatic health
Waste Treatment Methods: Incineration in authorized facility, chemical treatment in accordance with local regulations
Container Disposal: Triple-rinse and puncture before recycling or disposal, never reuse container for food or water
Guidelines: Follow national and regional hazardous waste treatment and reporting standards
UN Classification: Not classified as dangerous for transport under many regulations, but always follow labeling and spill control recommendations
Recommended Packaging: Tight, leak-proof drum or container rated for chemical storage, protected from physical damage or excessive heat
Special Considerations: Secure containers upright, label with proper hazard communication
Environmental Transport Risk: Keep away from waterways or soil in case of accident during movement
Global Regulations: Subject to reporting and safety data requirements by OSHA, REACH, and other regional authorities
Chemical Inventory Status: Listed on most international chemical inventory lists
Worker Safety: Employers must provide training and access to safe handling resources
Labeling Standards: Comply with relevant workplace labeling for irritation, precautionary use, and guidelines for safe storage/disposal