Definition and Uses:
Diethylene Glycol is a colorless, low volatility, low viscosity, hygroscopic liquid. Under normal conditions, diethylene glycol has no odor; however, under high vapor concentrations, a slightly sweet odor can be detected. It is completely miscible with water and many organic liquids.
Because of its high molecular weight, diethylene glycol is considerably less volatile than ethylene glycol and is sufficiently different for its specific uses. The reactivity and solubility of diethylene glycol are the basis for many applications.
Diethylene glycol is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Diethylene glycol is also incompatible with strong bases. Diethylene glycol reacts with sulfuric acid and other dehydrating agents, nitric acid, oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, perchloric acid, and strong acids. Mixtures with sodium hydroxide decompose exothermically when heated to 446°F.