From HSDB, accessed 10/28/2009 online 

DIETHYLENE GLYCOL DIETHYL ETHER

CASRN: 112-36-7 

For other data, click on the Table of Contents

Human Health Effects:

Human Toxicity Excerpts: 

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Symptomatology: B. Ethylene glycol and its mono- and diethers... 

1. Central nervous depression... 3. Nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea. 4. ...Headache. 

Later abdominal and lumbar pain and costovertebral angle tenderness. 5. Transient polyuria and 

then oliguria, progressing to anuria. 6. Acute renal failure... 7. Less critical pathological lesions 

may appear in brain, lungs, liver, meninges and heart. /Ethylene glycol alkyl ethers/ 

[Gosselin, R.E., H.C. Hodge, R.P. Smith, and M.N. Gleason. Clinical 

Toxicology of Commercial Products. 4th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 

1976., p. II-26] **PEER REVIEWED** 

/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ ...Skin permeation was calculated using the Franz cell 

method with human skin. A physiological solution was used as the receiving phase. ...A 

permeation profile was obtained and steady state, lag time and permeation constant flux was 

calculated for each of the following solvents: ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (EGMEE), 

propylene glycol mono-methyl ether (PGMME); propylene glycol mono-methyl ether acetate 

(PGMMEac); 2-propylene glycol 1-butyl ether (2PG1BE), ethylene glycol dimethyl ether 

(EGDME), ethylene glycol diethyl ether (EGDEE) and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether 

(DEGDME). All solvents were tested in their pure form and with 70% acetone. For all solvents 

tested the lag time was <2 hr, and for the majority of them was about 60 min. Flux at steady state 

ranged between 0.017 +/- 0.005 and 3.435 +/- 1.897 mg/sq cm/hr and permeation rate was from 

0.0192 to 1.02 x 10-3 cm/hr. The presence of acetone in the solution caused a reduction in lag 

time and an increase in permeation rate, higher for EGMEE, lower for EGDEE, indicating the 

enhancing effect of this mixture of solvents. ... 

[Larese Filon F et al; Int Arch Occup Environ Health 72 (7): 480-4 (1999)] 

**PEER REVIEWED** PubMed Abstract

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ Ethylene glycol ethers (EGEs) including diglyme are used in the 

manufacture of semiconductors. Epidemiological studies of semiconductor populations evaluated 

potential adverse reproductive outcomes. ... In each of these studies, workers were exposed to 

mixtures including diglyme but not to diglyme alone. ... Exposure to EGEs was determined using 

questionnaires from subjects about the work performed and an assessment of the work 

environment by industrial hygienists, but no measurements of personal or area exposures were 

made. Workers in the fabrication area were considered exposed to EGEs. For the retrospective 

study, information on pregnancy outcomes and potential confounders (age, smoking, ethnicity, 

education, income, year of pregnancy, and stress) was obtained through a comprehensive 

interviewer-administered interview of female employees. The prospective study of early fetal 

loss and fecundity (probability of conception per menstrual cycle) was conducted in a subset of 

female employees from five plants. Daily diaries and measurements of daily urinary human 
chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels for 6 months were collected in addition to the 

comprehensive interview. Of the 891 medically verified pregnancies identified for the 

retrospective study, 774 (86.9%) were live births, 113 (12.7%) were spontaneous abortions, and 

4 (0.4%) were stillbirths. The overall unadjusted relative risk (RR) for spontaneous abortions 

was 1.45 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02�2.05) and changed little after adjusting for 

confounders (adjusted RR =1.43; 95% CI = 0.95�2.09). When stratified by work group, the risk 

of spontaneous abortion was statistically significantly increased for female workers in the 

photolithography group (RR = 1.67; 95% CI = 1.04�2.55) and in the etching group (RR = 2.08; 

95% CI = 1.27�3.19). For women working with higher levels of EGE only in masking, the risk 

for spontaneous abortion was increased 3-fold (RR = 3.38; 95% CI = 1.61�5.73). In the 

prospective study, no statistically significant differences were detected in the overall rate of 

spontaneous abortions between fabrication and non-fabrication workers or when pregnancy 

outcomes were examined by work group. However, the ability to conceive was lower among 

female workers exposed to EGEs (fertility rate [FR] = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.11�1.19). /Ethylene 

glycol ethers/ 

[International Programme on Chemical Safety; Concise International Chemical 

Assessment Document Number 41: Diethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether (2002). 

Available from, as of February 20, 2007: 

http://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html ] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Probable Routes of Human Exposure: 

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 3,489 workers (2,128 of these 

are female) are potentially exposed to diethylene glycol diethyl ether in the USA(1). 

Occupational exposure to diethylene glycol diethyl ether may occur through inhalation and 

dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylene glycol diethyl ether is 

produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 

diethylene glycol diethyl ether via ingestion of drinking water(SRC). 

[(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-

1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents 

by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available at 

http://www.cdc.gov/noes/ as of Jan 9, 2007.] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Emergency Medical Treatment:

Emergency Medical Treatment: 

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The following Overview, *** GLYCOL ETHERS ***, is relevant for this HSDB record 

chemical. 

Life Support:

 o This overview assumes that basic life support measures 

 have been instituted. 

Clinical Effects:

 0.2.1 SUMMARY OF EXPOSURE 

 0.2.1.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Based on animal comparative data, the glycol ethers may 

 be more acutely toxic than ethylene glycol; however, 

 this model does not account for toxicity of 

 metabolites. Toxicity in humans following ingestions 

 may be dependent on the metabolic products. 

 1) Human overdose experience is limited to extremely 

 large ingestions in adults. Experience with smaller 

 amounts or low concentrations is insufficient to 

 predict whether animal data suggesting significant 

 acute toxicity are relevant to humans. 

 B) CNS depression, renal injury, hyperventilation, 

 hemolysis, and metabolic acidosis have occurred after 

 large ingestions. Onset of symptoms may be delayed for 

 up to 18 hours. 

 0.2.3 VITAL SIGNS 

 0.2.4 HEENT 

 0.2.4.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Eye irritation is generally slight, but may be severe 

 with the propyl ether. 

 0.2.5 CARDIOVASCULAR 

 0.2.5.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Severe hypotension and ventricular dysrhythmias are 

 rare effects of large ingestions of ethylene glycol 

 butyl ether (EGBE). 

 0.2.6 RESPIRATORY 

 0.2.6.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) ARDS was reported in one case after ingestion of 500 mL 

 of 9.1% ethylene glycol butyl ether (EGBE). 

 0.2.7 NEUROLOGIC 

 0.2.7.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Ataxia, tremor, somnolence, lethargy, headache, 

 dysarthria, blurred vision, coma, and personality 

 changes have been reported after chronic inhalation. 
 B) Coma has been described after ingestion of 30 to 100 mL 

 of pure glycol ethers in adults. 

 0.2.8 GASTROINTESTINAL 

 0.2.8.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Hemorrhagic gastritis was seen in a case of fatal 

 poisoning with methyl ether. 

 0.2.9 HEPATIC 

 0.2.9.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Fatty degeneration of the liver was noted on autopsy 

 after a poisoning with methyl ether. 

 0.2.10 GENITOURINARY 

 0.2.10.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Renal tubular necrosis with proteinuria has been seen 

 following oral ingestion. Oxalate crystals were seen in 

 the urine in one patient. 

 0.2.11 ACID-BASE 

 0.2.11.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Metabolic acidosis has been consistently described 

 after large oral ingestions. 

 0.2.12 FLUID-ELECTROLYTE 

 0.2.12.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Hypocalcemia and hypokalemia have been noted. 

 0.2.13 HEMATOLOGIC 

 0.2.13.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE 

 A) Hemolytic anemia, non-hemolytic anemia, 

 thrombocytopenia, and DIC have been reported in 

 overdose. 

 0.2.20 REPRODUCTIVE HAZARDS 

 A) Teratogenic effects have been observed at maternally 

 non-toxic doses for the methyl ether and ethyl ether of 

 ethylene glycol. 

 0.2.21 CARCINOGENICITY 

 0.2.21.1 IARC CATEGORY 

 A) IARC Carcinogenicity Ratings for CAS111-76-2 (IARC, 

 2004): 

 1) IARC Classification 

 a) Listed as: 2-Butoxyethanol 

 b) Carcinogen Rating: 3 

 1) The agent (mixture or exposure circumstance) is not 

 classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. 

 This category is used most commonly for agents, 

 mixtures and exposure circumstances for which the 

 evidence of carcinogenicity is inadequate in humans 

 and inadequate or limited in experimental animals. 

 Exceptionally, agents (mixtures) for which the 

 evidence of carcinogenicity is inadequate in humans 

 but sufficient in experimental animals may be placed 

 in this category when there is strong evidence that 

 the mechanism of carcinogenicity in experimental 

 animals does not operate in humans. Agents, mixtures 

 and exposure circumstances that do not fall into any 

 other group are also placed in this category. 

 B) IARC Carcinogenicity Ratings for CAS109-86-4 (IARC, 

 2004): 

 1) Not Listed 

 C) IARC Carcinogenicity Ratings for CAS110-80-5 (IARC, 
 2004): 

 1) Not Listed 

 D) IARC Carcinogenicity Ratings for CAS109-59-1 (IARC, 

 2004): 

 1) Not Listed 

 0.2.22 GENOTOXICITY 

 A) Ethylene glycol n-butyl ether and the aldehyde 

 metabolite of ethylene glycol monomethyl ether 

 (methoxyacetaldehyde) displayed mutagenic potency in the 

 Salmonella typhimurium assay. In contrast, EGME, EGEE, 

 EALD, BALD and the acid metabolites gave negative 

 responses with all strains of Salmonella typhimurium 

 used in the assay (Hoflack et al, 1995). 

Laboratory:

 A) Blood ethanol, methanol, and ethylene glycol levels may 

 be useful in assessing concurrent ingestions, but are not 

 useful in assessing glycol ether toxicity. 

Treatment Overview:

 0.4.2 ORAL EXPOSURE 

 A) Emesis is contraindicated due to rapid GI absorption and 

 potential for rapid progression to coma. 

 B) GASTRIC LAVAGE: Consider after ingestion of a 

 potentially life-threatening amount of poison if it can 

 be performed soon after ingestion (generally within 1 

 hour). Protect airway by placement in Trendelenburg and 

 left lateral decubitus position or by endotracheal 

 intubation. Control any seizures first. 

 1) CONTRAINDICATIONS: Loss of airway protective reflexes 

 or decreased level of consciousness in unintubated 

 patients; following ingestion of corrosives; 

 hydrocarbons (high aspiration potential); patients at 

 risk of hemorrhage or gastrointestinal perforation; and 

 trivial or non-toxic ingestion. 

 C) ACTIVATED CHARCOAL: Administer charcoal as a slurry (240 

 mL water/30 g charcoal). Usual dose: 25 to 100 g in 

 adults/adolescents, 25 to 50 g in children (1 to 12 

 years), and 1 g/kg in infants less than 1 year old. 

 D) Correct severe acidosis (pH < 7.1) with IV NaHCO3. 1 to 

 2 mEq/kg is a useful starting dose. Monitor ABGs. 

 E) Ethanol (ETOH) may inhibit the formation of toxic 

 metabolites, but there are no controlled human studies 

 documenting efficacy. 

 1) LOADING DOSE - Administer 7.6 to 10 mL/kg of 10% ETOH 

 in D5W IV over 30 minutes. 

 2) MAINTENANCE DOSE - Administer 1.39 mL/kg/hr of 10% ETOH 

 in D5W by IV infusion. Aim at achieving and maintaining 

 100 to 130 mg/dL blood ethanol levels. 

 3) PRECAUTION - Monitor blood glucose and ETOH levels. 

 F) HEMODIALYSIS - Consider hemodialysis in patients with 

 severe toxicity. Maintenance ETOH dose must be modified 

 during dialysis. INDICATIONS: a) severe acid-base and/or 

 fluid-electrolyte abnormalities despite conventional 

 therapy; or b) renal failure. 

 0.4.3 INHALATION EXPOSURE 

 A) INHALATION: Move patient to fresh air. Monitor for 
 respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty breathing 

 develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, 

 bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer oxygen and assist 

 ventilation as required. Treat bronchospasm with inhaled 

 beta2 agonist and oral or parenteral corticosteroids. 

 0.4.4 EYE EXPOSURE 

 A) DECONTAMINATION: Irrigate exposed eyes with copious 

 amounts of room temperature water for at least 15 

 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or 

 photophobia persist, the patient should be seen in a 

 health care facility. 

 0.4.5 DERMAL EXPOSURE 

 A) OVERVIEW 

 1) DECONTAMINATION: Remove contaminated clothing and wash 

 exposed area thoroughly with soap and water. A 

 physician may need to examine the area if irritation or 

 pain persists. 

Range of Toxicity:

 A) Adults have developed severe toxicity after ingestion of 

 30 to 100 mL, and death after 240 mL (methoxyethanol). 

[Rumack BH POISINDEX(R) Information System Micromedex, Inc., Englewood, CO, 

2009; CCIS Volume 142, edition expires Nov, 2009. Hall AH & Rumack BH (Eds): 

TOMES(R) Information System Micromedex, Inc., Englewood, CO, 2009; CCIS 

Volume 142, edition expires Nov, 2009.] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Antidote and Emergency Treatment: 

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). 

Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if 

necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary 

edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures 

and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate 

each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For 

ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient 

can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . 

/Ethylene glycol, glycols, and related compounds/ 

[Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For 

Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 

2005, p. 262-3] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the 

patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. 

Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. 

Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if 

necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 

0.9% saline (NS) lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension 

with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is 

hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures 
with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . 

/Ethylene glycol, glycols, and related compounds/ 

[Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For 

Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 

2005, p. 263] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Animal Toxicity Studies:

Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts: 

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The compound was tested externally on the eyes 

of rabbits, and, according to the degree of injury observed after 24 hours, rated on a scale of 1 to 

10. The most severely injurious substances have been rated 10. Diethylene glycol diethyl ether 

rated 3 to 4 on rabbit eyes. 

[Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. 

Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 1030] **PEER REVIEWED** 

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ Fifty pregnant CD-1 

mice were given 3,000 mg/kg/day of diethylene glycol diethyl ether in water by gavage on days 

6-13 of gestation and allowed to deliver. The test agent reduced maternal weight gain but had no 

effect on the offspring of treated animals. 

[Hardin BD et al; Teratog Carcinog Mutagen 7: 29-48 (1987)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ ...Diethylene glycol 

diethyl ether (diEGdiEE) ... was administered on days 7 through 14 to pregnant /CD-1 mice/ at a 

single dose estimated to be at or just below the threshold of adult lethality ... There was a slight 

reduction in the average number of live pups per litter in the diEGdiEE-treated group and ... the 

number dead per litter was increased ... Individual pup weight at day 1 postpartum was only 

significantly reduced by diEGdiEE, and no gross congenital abnormalities were detected in 

neonates ... 

[Plasterer MR et al; J Toxicol Environ Health 15 (1): 25-38 (1985)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** PubMed Abstract

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Stimulated choleresis when injected intraduodenally at 

1 mL/kg into rats. 

[Croce G; Ferrini R; Boll Soc Ital Biol Sper 49 (11): 653 (1973)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ... /Diethylene glycol diethyl ether/ if splashed 

into the eyes, it would cause conjunctival irritation and slight transitory injury of the cornea. 

[Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th 

ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 177] **PEER REVIEWED** 

National Toxicology Program Studies: 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether (DGDE) was evaluated for developmental toxicity in timedpregnant CD-l mice. Diethylene glycol diethyl ether was administered daily in distilled water by 
gavage at 0, 300, 1,500, 3,000 and 4,500 mg/kg on gestational days (gd) 6 through 15. Maternal 

toxicity was evident in dams exposed to diethylene glycol diethyl ether at doses greater than or 

equal to 1,500 mg/kg/day . CNS function was highly sensitive to treatment as evidenced by 

ataxia, coma and lethargy in a majority of the dams dosed. Mortality among confirmed--pregnant 

animals occurred with incidences of 0% (0/29), 0% (0/24), 8.6% (3/35), 11.8% (4/34) and 100% 

(14/14) in the control through high-dose groups, respectively. Deaths occurred early during the 

dosing period (gd 6-9), and all deaths at the high dose were preceded by evidence of severe CNS 

depression. There were no effects of treatment on any of the parameters that indicate changes in 

the numbers of resorptions, nonlive implants, fetal deaths as well as live fetuses. Average fetal 

body weight per litter was significantly lower at 3,000 mg/kg diethylene glycol diethyl ether 

when compared with the control group. The incidence of major malformations was low in all 

groups and was dose independent. The 1,500 mg/kg/day dose was a no observed effect level 

(NOEL) for developmental toxicity. In conclusion, development of the CD-1 mouse is not 

sensitive to diethylene glycol diethyl ether administered by gavage at maternally nontoxic doses. 

A NOEL for diethylene glycol diethyl ether-induced developmental toxicity was 1,500 

mg/kg/day, a dose which produced maternal CNS depression and lethality (8.6%). The lowest 

dose given, 300 mg/kg/day, represented a NOEL for diethylene glycol diethyl ether-induced 

maternal toxicity. 

[Department of Health & Human Services/National Institute of Environmental 

Health Sciences, National Toxicology Program; Teratologic Evaluation 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether (CAS No.112-36-7) Administered to CD-1 Mice 

on Gestational Days 6 through 15, NTP Study No. TER86059 (November 6, 1987) 

Available from, as of August 15, 2002: 

http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/index.cfm?objectid=0847FF31-90CC-C685-

88B4D7EAC975BD44 ] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether (DGDE) was evaluated for developmental toxicity in artificially 

inseminated, New Zealand White rabbits. Diethylene glycol diethyl ether was dissolved in 

distilled water to provide doses of 0, 50, 200 and 400 mg/kg, and subsequently administered 

daily by gavage from gestational days (gd) 6 through 19. DGDE treatment did not adversely 

influence maternal viability. The only exception was that one of the 27 confirmed pregnant dams 

(3.7%) in the 400 mg/kg group died on gd 15. Necropsy of that animal indicated that its death 

was related to diethylene glycol diethyl ether exposure. The pregnancy incidence was similar 

across dose groups and ranged from 85.7% to 88.6%. Clinical signs of toxicity were observed 

during treatment with the greatest occurrence in the high dose group. Ataxia, coma, dyspnea and 

postdosing vocalization predominated at 400 mg diethylene glycol diethyl ether/kg/day. Weight 

loss (greater than or equal to 150 g/day) occurred in both the control and treated animals. 

Maternal body weight was similar among dose groups on gd 0 as well as throughout the 

treatment and post-treatment periods. When weight gain was compared, however, dams exposed 

to 400 mg diethylene glycol diethyl ether/kg had significantly lower weight gain than controls 

during the treatment period. Liver and gravid uterine weights did not differ among dose groups. 

There was no effect of treatment on embryo viability. The incidences of resorptions and fetal 

deaths were similar among the treatment groups. In addition, the number of live fetuses per litter 

and average fetal body weight per litter (both sexes) were not affected by diethylene glycol 

diethyl ether treatment. Nonetheless. when fetal body weights were analyzed by sex, female 

weight manifested a significant decreasing trend which was related to the statistically 

nonsignificant, weight reduction in the 400 mg/kg/day dose group, In addition, embryo/fetal 

morphogenesis was not observably altered by diethylene glycol diethyl ether treatment, based on 
the findings of external, visceral and skeletal examinations of gd 30 fetuses. In conclusion, 

embryonic and fetal development of the NZW rabbit was not sensitive to diethylene glycol 

diethyl ether as tested in the present study at maternally toxic doses. Although clearcut 

developmental effects were not identified for diethylene glycol diethyl ether, the significant 

decreasing trend in body weight of female fetuses at 400 mg/kg/day is marginal evidence of 

diethylene glycol diethyl ether-induced developmental toxicity. Since maternal toxicity was also 

observed at the high dose, the 200 mg/kg/day dose represents a no observed effect level (NOEL) 

for both diethylene glycol diethyl ether induced developmental and maternal toxicities. 

[Department of Health & Human Services/National Institute of Environmental 

Health Sciences, National Toxicology Program; Diethylene glycol diethyl ether 

(CAS No. 112-36-7) Administered to New Zealand White Rabbits on Gestational 

Days 6 through 19, NTP Study No. TER87060 (December 7, 1987) Available from, 

as of August 15, 2002: http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/index.cfm?objectid=0847FF31-

90CC-C685-88B4D7EAC975BD44 ] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Non-Human Toxicity Values: 

LD50 Rat oral 4970 mg/kg 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 

11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 

1262] **PEER REVIEWED** 

LD50 Guinea pig oral 1850 mg/kg 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 

11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 

1262] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Ecotoxicity Values: 

LC50; Species: Nitocra spinipes (Harpacticoid copepod, adults, length 0.6-0.8 mm); Conditions: 

static, 10 deg C, pH 7.8, salinity 7 ppt, alkalinity 75 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen >5 mg/L; 

Concentration: 6600 mg/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 6000-7300 mg/L) /98% pure/ 

[Linden E et al; Chemosphere 8 (11/12): 843-851 (1979) Available from, as of 

April 2, 2007: http://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/quick_query.htm ] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

LC50; Species: Alburnus alburnus (Bleak, length 8 cm); Conditions: static, 10 deg C, pH 7.8, 

salinity 7 ppt, alkalinity 75 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen >5 mg/L; Concentration: 10,000 

mg/L for 96 hr /98% pure/ 

[Linden E et al; Chemosphere 8 (11/12): 843-851 (1979) Available from, as of 

April 2, 2007: http://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/quick_query.htm ] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

TSCA Test Submissions: 

An oral teratogenicity was conducted with 50 pregnant Charles River (CD-1) mice administered 

diethylene glycol diethyl ether (bis(2-ethoxyethyl) ether) by oral gavage at a dose level of 3000 

mg/kg body weight on gestation days 7 to 14. The dose level chosen was the LD10 calculated 

from a previous range finding study. Mortality not was observed. Fetal toxicity was evident by 

statistical differences in number of dead pups per litter, and reduced pup birth weight (by 
analysis of variance). No significant changes were observed in number of pups per litter, percent 

pup postnatal survival, and pup weight gain over days 1-3 post partum. Of the pregnant mice, 95 

percent of litters were viable. Gross necropsy observations were not reported. 

[Chemical Manufactures Association, NIOSH; Toxicity Studies with Glycol 

Monobutyl Ether (and other ethers) with cover letter dated 053084, (1984), 

EPA Document No. 40-8478008, Fiche No. OTS0512376] **UNREVIEWED** 

Reproductive toxicity was evaluated in groups of 10 pregnant Charles River CD female mice 

receiving an oral gavage dose of ethylene glycol at 10 ml/kg body weight on gestation days 7 

through 14. Maternal mortality, clinical observations and gross necropsy were not reported. 

There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the number of live pups per litter, reduced survival, 

and reduced birth weight among offspring of treated dams. 

[Department of Health & Human Services; Results of Testing Fifteen Glycol 

Ethers in a Short-Term In Vivo Reproductive Toxicity Assay With Attachments, 

EPA Doc. 40-8385037, Fiche No. OTS0521552] **UNREVIEWED** 

Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics:

Pharmacology:

Environmental Fate & Exposure:

Environmental Fate/Exposure Summary: 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether's production and use as a high boiling reaction medium, and as a 

solvent for nitrocellulose, lacquers, resins, and organic syntheses may result in its release to the 

environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.52 mm Hg at 

25 deg C indicates diethylene glycol diethyl ether will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. 

Vapor-phase diethylene glycol diethyl ether will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with 

photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to 

be 14 hours. If released to soil, diethylene glycol diethyl ether is expected to have very high 

mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 39. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not 

expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 

1.1X10-7 atm-cu m/mole. Diethylene glycol diethyl ether may volatilize from dry soil surfaces 

based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation of diethylene glycol diethyl ether is not expected 

to be an important fate process in soil or water based on biodegradation studies conducted with 

sewage seed. If released into water, diethylene glycol diethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to 

suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces 

is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's 

Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic 

organisms is low. Occupational exposure to diethylene glycol diethyl ether may occur through 

inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylene glycol diethyl 

ether is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed 

to diethylene glycol diethyl ether via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of drinking water, and 
dermal contact with this compound and other products containing diethylene glycol diethyl ether. 

(SRC) 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

Probable Routes of Human Exposure: 

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 3,489 workers (2,128 of these 

are female) are potentially exposed to diethylene glycol diethyl ether in the USA(1). 

Occupational exposure to diethylene glycol diethyl ether may occur through inhalation and 

dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylene glycol diethyl ether is 

produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 

diethylene glycol diethyl ether via ingestion of drinking water(SRC). 

[(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-

1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents 

by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available at 

http://www.cdc.gov/noes/ as of Jan 9, 2007.] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Artificial Pollution Sources: 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether's production and use as a high boiling reaction medium(1), and as 

a solvent for nitrocellulose, lacquers, resins, and organic syntheses(2) may result in its release to 

the environment through various waste streams(SRC). 

[(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: 

Merck and Co., Inc., p. 459 (2001) (2) Lewis RJ Sr; Hawley's Condensed 

Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY p. 373 

(2001)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Environmental Fate: 

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 

39(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 0.39(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates 

that diethylene glycol diethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). 

Volatilization of diethylene glycol diethyl ether from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an 

important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.1X10-7 atm-cu 

m/mole(SRC), derived from Its vapor pressure, 0.52 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 1X10+6 

mg/L(5). Diethylene glycol diethyl ether may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon 

its vapor pressure(4). Biodegradation of diethylene glycol diethyl ether is not expected to be an 

important fate process in soil based on biodegradation studies conducted with sewage seed(6-7). 

[(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983) (2) Funasaki N et al; J Phys 

Chem 88: 5786-90 (1984) (3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property 

Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9 (1990) (4) Yaws CL; 

Handbook of Vapor Pressure. Vol 3: C8-C28 Compounds. Houston,TX: Gulf Pub Co 

(1994) (5) Yalkowsky SH, Dannenfelser RM; The AQUASOL Database of Aqueous 

Solubility V5 (1992) (6) Heukelekian H, Rand MC; J Water Pollut Contr Assoc 

29: 1040-55 (1955) (7) Cowan RM, Kwon J; pp. 273-82 in Hazard Ind Wastes, 

31st Technomic Pub Co., Inc., p 273-82 (1999)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 39(SRC), 

determined from a log Kow of 0.39(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that 

diethylene glycol diethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). 
Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law 

constant of 1.1X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.52 mm Hg(4), and 

water solubility, 1X10+6 mg/L(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 

3(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(7), suggests the potential for 

bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation of diethylene glycol diethyl 

ether is not expected to be an important fate process in water based on biodegradation studies 

conducted with sewage seed(8-9). 

[(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983) (2) Funasaki N et al; J Phys 

Chem 88: 5786-90 (1984) (3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property 

Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9, 15-1 to 15-29 

(1990) (4) Yaws CL; Handbook of Vapor Pressure. Vol 3: C8-C28 Compounds. 

Houston,TX: Gulf Pub Co (1994) (5) Yalkowsky SH, Dannenfelser RM; The AQUASOL 

Database of Aqueous Solubility V5 (1992) (6) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 

1501-14 (1994) (7) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999) 

(8) Heukelekian H, Rand MC; J Water Pollut Contr Assoc 29: 1040-55 (1955) (9) 

Cowan RM, Kwon J; pp. 273-82 in Hazard Ind Wastes, 31st Technomic Pub Co., 

Inc., p 273-82 (1999)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile 

organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), diethylene glycol diethyl ether, which has a vapor 

pressure of 0.52 mm Hg at 25 deg C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient 

atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethylene glycol diethyl ether is degraded in the atmosphere by 

reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in 

air is estimated to be 14 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 2.7X10-11 cu 

cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(3). 

[(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988) (2) Yaws CL; 

Handbook of Vapor Pressure. Vol 3: C8-C28 Compounds. Houston,TX: Gulf Pub Co 

(1994) (3) Kwok ESC, Atkinson R; Atmos Environ 29: 1685-9 (1995)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Environmental Biodegradation: 

AEROBIC: An aerobic biodegradation study using gram-negative asporogenous rod bacterium 

isolated from soil by enrichment on triethylene glycol exhibited borderline growth (scarcely 

detectable growth, not reproducible) with diethylene glycol diethyl ether(1). In a screening study 

using a sewage seed, diethylene glycol diethyl ether (concentration not specified) had a 10 day 

BOD of 0.10 g/g (4.2% theoretical BOD) at 20 deg C(2). Diethylene glycol diethyl ether had a 

21.7% COD removal at 30 deg C from a starting concentration of 600 mg COD/L (time period 

not given) indicating little degradation compared to 95% degradation of ethylene glycol 

monophenyl ether(3). 

[(1) Fincher EL, Payne WJ; Appl Microbiol 10: 542-7 (1962) (2) Heukelekian H, 

Rand MC; J Water Pollut Contr Assoc 29: 1040-55 (1955) (3) Cowan RM, Kwon J; 

pp. 273-82 in Hazard Ind Wastes, 31st Technomic Pub Co., Inc., p 273-82 

(1999)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Environmental Abiotic Degradation: 

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of diethylene glycol diethyl ether with 

photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 2.7X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(1). 

This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 14 hours at an atmospheric concentration 
of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(SRC). The rate constant for the reaction between 

photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals in water and diethylene glycol diethyl ether is 

3.2X10+9 L/mole-sec(2); assuming that the concentration of hydroxyl radicals in brightly sunlit 

natural water is 1X10-17 M(3), the half-life would be about 250 days(SRC). 

[(1) Kwok ESC, Atkinson R; Atmos Environ 29: 1685-9 (1995) (2) Dorfman LM, 

Adams GE; Reactivity of the Hydroxyl Radical in Aqueous Solution. NSRD-NBS-46 

(NTIS COM-73-50623). Washington, DC; National Bureau of Standards pp. 51 

(1973) (3) Mill T et al; Sci 207: 886-7 (1980)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Environmental Bioconcentration: 

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for diethylene glycol diethyl ether(SRC), using a 

log Kow of 0.39(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification 

scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is 

low(SRC). 

[(1) Funasaki N et al; J Phys Chem 88: 5786-90 (1984) (2) Lyman WJ et al; 

Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem 

Soc pp. 4-9 (1990) (3) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Soil Adsorption/Mobility: 

The Koc of diethylene glycol diethyl ether is estimated as 39(SRC), using a log Kow of 0.39(1) 

and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated 

Koc value suggests that diethylene glycol diethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in 

soil. 

[(1) Funasaki N et al; J Phys Chem 88: 5786-90 (1984) (2) Lyman WJ et al; 

Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem 

Soc pp. 4-9 (1990) (3) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Volatilization from Water/Soil: 

The Henry's Law constant for diethylene glycol diethyl ether is estimated as 1.1X10-7 atm-cu 

m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 0.52 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 1X10+6 

mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that diethylene glycol diethyl ether is expected to 

be essentially nonvolatile from water surfaces(3). Diethylene glycol diethyl ether's estimated 

Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may not occur(SRC). 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor 

pressure(1). 

[(1) Yaws CL; Handbook of Vapor Pressure. Vol 3: C8-C28 Compounds. 

Houston,TX: Gulf Pub Co (1994) (2) Yalkowsky SH, Dannenfelser RM; The AQUASOL 

Database of Aqueous Solubility V5 (1992) (3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of 

Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 

to 15-29 (1990)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Environmental Water Concentrations: 

DRINKING WATER: Diethylene glycol diethyl ether has been qualitatively identified in 

drinking water(1). Diethylene glycol diethyl ether was qualitatively detected in drinking water 
from Cincinnati, Ohio(2). 

[(1) Kool HJ et al; Crit Rev Env Control 12: 307-57 (1982) (2) Lucas SV; 

GC/MS Anal of Org in Drinking Water Concentrates and Advanced Treatment 

Concentrates Vol 1 USEPA-600/1-84-020A (NTIS PB85-128239) pp. 397 (1984)] 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

GROUND WATER: Diethylene glycol diethyl ether has been qualitatively identified in ground 

water from the Hipps Road Landfill in Jacksonville, FL(1). 

[(1) Eckel WP et al; Ground Water 31: 801-4 (1993)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

SURFACE WATER: Diethylene glycol diethyl ether has been detected in the River Rhine at 1 

ug/l(1). 

[(1) Piet GJ, Morra CF; Behavior of Organic Micropollutants During 

Underground Passage. IN: Artificial Groundwater Recharge (Water Resources 

Engineering Series) Huisman L, Olsthorn TN (eds), Pitman Pub pp 31-42 (1983)] 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

Effluent Concentrations: 

Diethylene glycol diethyl ether has been qualitatively identified in trench leachates from Maxey 

Flats and West Valley low-level radioactive waste disposal sites(1). Diethylene glycol diethyl 

ether has been qualitatively identified in advanced waste treatment water from Lake Tahoe, CA, 

Pomona, CA, and Blue Plains, Washington, DC(2). Diethylene glycol diethyl ether was tested 

from a light duty truck using different fuel types; diesel mixed with diethylene glycol diethyl 

ether: cold start 79 ug/cu m, hot start 52 ug/cu m; diesel fuel: cold start 23 ug/cu m, hot start 25 

ug/cu m; diesel fuel mixed with diethylene glycol dimethyl ether: cold start 7.7 ug/cu m, hot start 

7.3 ug/cu m; diesel fuel mixed with 2-ethylhexyl nitrate: not detected for cold and hot start(3). 

[(1) Francis AJ et al; Nuclear Tech 50: 158-63 (1980) (2) Lucas SV; GC/MS 

Anal of Org in Drinking Water Concentrates and Advanced Treatment 

Concentrates Vol 1 USEPA-600/1-84-020A (NTIS PB85-128239) pp. 397 (1984) (3) 

Cao X-L, Zhu J; Chemosphere 45: 911-7 (2001)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Environmental Standards & Regulations:

Atmospheric Standards: 

This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic 

Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The 

intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed 

SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for 

equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and 

energy requirements. Diethylene glycol diethyl ether is produced, as an intermediate or a final 

product, by process units covered under this subpart. 

[40 CFR 60.489; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's 

Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of March 1, 2007: 

http://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr ] **PEER REVIEWED** 
Chemical/Physical Properties:

Molecular Formula: 

C8-H18-O3 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Molecular Weight: 

162.23 

[O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, 

and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 

2001., p. 549] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Color/Form: 

Colorless liquid 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Boiling Point: 

188 deg C 

[Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 86TH Edition 2005-2006. CRC 

Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 3-168] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Melting Point: 

-45 deg C 

[Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 86TH Edition 2005-2006. CRC 

Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 3-168] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Density/Specific Gravity: 

0.907 at 20 deg C/4 deg C 

[O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, 

and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 

2001., p. 549] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Octanol/Water Partition Coefficient: 

log Kow = 0.39 

[Funasaki N et al; J Phys Chem 88: 5786-5790 (1984)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Solubilities: 

Very soluble in ethanol, organic solvents; soluble in ethyl ether 

[Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. 
Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V3: 2648] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Soluble in hydrocarbons 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Infinite /1.0X10+6 mg/L/ solubility water at 25 deg C 

[Yalkowsky SH, Dannenfelser RM; The AQUASOL dATAbASE of Aqueous Solubility. 

Ver 5. Tucson, AZ: Univ AZ, College of Pharmacy (1992)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Spectral Properties: 

Index of refraction: 1.4115 at 20 deg C/D 

[Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. 

Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V3: 2648] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

IR: 1447 (National Research Council Spectral Collection) 

[Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. 

Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V3: 2648] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

MASS: 5938 (NIST/EPA/MSDC Mass Spectral database, 1990 version); 658 (Atlas of Mass 

Spectral Data, John Wiley & Sons, New York) 

[Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. 

Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V3: 2648] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Raman: 261 (Sadtler Research Laboratories spectral collection) 

[Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. 

Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V3: 2648] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Surface Tension: 

3.5657X10-2 N/m at melting point (-44.3 deg C) 

[Daubert, T.E., R.P. Danner. Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure 

Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Francis, 1989.] 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

Vapor Pressure: 

0.520 mm Hg at 25 deg C 

[Yaws CL; Handbook of Vapor Pressure. Vol 3: C8-C28 Compounds. Houston,TX: 

Gulf Pub Co (1994)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Other Chemical/Physical Properties: 

EQUIVALENCIES: 1 PPM EQUALS 6.64 MG/CU M @ 25 DEG C, 760 MM HG; 1 MG/L 

EQUALS 150.8 PPM @ 25 DEG, 760 MM HG. PER CENT IN SATURATED AIR: 0.066 @ 
25 DEG C. VAPOR PRESSURE = 0.5 MM HG @ 25 DEG C (APPROX) 

[Patty, F. (ed.). Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume II: Toxicology. 

2nd ed. New York: Interscience Publishers, 1963., p. 1543] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Liquid molar volume = 0.179481 cu m/kmol 

[Daubert, T.E., R.P. Danner. Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure 

Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Francis, 1989.] 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

wt/gal: 7.56 at 20 deg C ... combustible 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Henry's Law constant = 1.11X10-7 atm-cu m/mol at 25 deg C (est) 

[SRC; The Physical Properties Database (PHYSPROP). Syracuse, NY: Syracuse Res 

Corp. Available from, as of Dec 15, 2006: 

http://www.syrres.com/esc/physprop.htm ] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 2.68X10-11 cu cm/molec-sec at 25 deg C 

[Atkinson R; J Phys Chem Ref Data Monograph No. 1 (1989)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Chemical Safety & Handling:

Fire Potential: 

Combustible 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

NFPA Hazard Classification: 

Health: 1. 1= Materials that, on exposure, would cause significant irritation, but only minor 

residual injury, including those requiring the use of an approved air-purifying respirator. These 

materials are only slightly hazardous to health and only breathing protection is needed. 

[Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National 

Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-44] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Flammability: 2. 2= This degree includes materials that must be moderately heated before 

ignition will occur and includes Class II and IIIA combustible liquids and solids and semi-solids 

that readily give off ignitible vapors. Water spray may be used to extinguish fires in these 

materials because the materials can be cooled below their flash points. 

[Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National 

Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-44] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Instability: 1. 1= This degree includes materials that are normally stable, but that may become 

unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures and materials. Fires involving these materials 

should be approached with caution. 

[Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National 

Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-44] **PEER REVIEWED** 
Flash Point: 

180 deg F (82 deg C) (Open Cup) 

[Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National 

Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-44] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities: 

Glycol ethers, glycols, ketones, and alcohols undergo violent decomposition in contact with 68-

72% perchloric acid 

[Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National 

Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 491-142] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Hazardous Decomposition: 

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 

11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 

1262] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Stability/Shelf Life: 

Extremely stable 

[Hawley, G.G. The Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 9th ed. New York: Van 

Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1977., p. 288] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Disposal Methods: 

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less 

inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any 

unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. 

Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential 

migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with 

environmental and public health regulations. 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

Occupational Exposure Standards:

Manufacturing/Use Information:

Major Uses: 

Solvent; high boiling reaction medium 

[O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, 

and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006.., p. 529] 

**PEER REVIEWED** 
Solvent for nitrocellulose, resins, lacquers; high-boiling medium and solvent for organic 

synthesis 

[Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 14th Edition. John 

Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2001., p. 373] **PEER REVIEWED** 

SOLVENT FOR ADHESIVES, SEALANTS, PLASTIC RESINS & CMPDS, RUBBER 

CHEMS 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

/Glycol ethers/ are used as coupling agents for preparing miscible organic-aqueous systems 

[CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: Glycol Ethers, 1983] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Manufacturers: 

Ferro Corp., 1000 Lakeside Ave., P.O. Box 147000, Cleveland, OH 44114-7000, (216) 641-

8580; Performance and Fine Chemicals Group, Grant Chemical Div., 111 West Irene Rd., 

Zachary, LA 70791, (225) 654-6801; Production site: Baton Rouge, LA 70821 

[SRI Consulting. 2006 Directory of Chemical Producers-United States. Menlo 

Park, CA. 2006, p. 482] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Methods of Manufacturing: 

REACTION OF ETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOETHYL ETHER WITH DIETHYL SULFATE 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

Glycol ethers are produced by reacting ethylene with alcohols in presence of either acid or base 

catalysts. Temperature, pressure, mole ratios of reactants and catalysts are chosen to yield the 

desired product 

[CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: Glycol Ethers, 1983] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Ethylene glycol monoethers are usually produced by reaction of ethylene oxide with the 

appropriate alcohol. A mixture of homologues is obtained ... The glycol monoethers can be 

converted to diethers by alkylation with common alkylating agents, such as dimethyl sulfate or 

alkyl halides ( Williamson synthesis). Glycol dimethyl ethers are formed by treatment of 

dimethyl ether with ethylene oxide. /Ethers/ 

[Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 6th ed.Vol 1: Federal 

Republic of Germany: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. 2003 to Present, p. V12 601 

(2003)] **PEER REVIEWED** 

U. S. Production: 

(1972) PROBABLY GREATER THAN 4.54X10+5 GRAMS 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

(1975) GREATER THAN 4.54X10+5 GRAMS (EST) 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

(2006) 1,612 million lb annual capacity /Glycol ethers/ 
[SRI Consulting. 2006 Directory of Chemical Producers-United States. Menlo 

Park, CA. 2006, p. 657] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Production volumes for non-confidential chemicals reported under the Inventory Update Rule. 

Year Production Range (pounds) 

1986 10 thousand - 500 thousand 

1990 10 thousand - 500 thousand 

1994 10 thousand - 500 thousand 

1998 10 thousand - 500 thousand 

2002 10 thousand - 500 thousand 

[US EPA; Non-confidential Production Volume Information Submitted by 

Companies for Chemicals Under the 1986-2002 Inventory Update Rule (IUR). 

Ethane, 1,1'-oxybis[2-ethoxy- (112-36-7). Available from, as of March 6, 

2007: http://www.epa.gov/oppt/iur/tools/data/2002-vol.htm ] **PEER REVIEWED** 

U. S. Imports: 

(1984) 9.43x10+9 g /Diethylene glycol esters, ethers, etc/ 

[BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. U.S. IMPORTS FOR CONSUMPTION AND GENERAL IMPORTS 1984 

p.1-361] **PEER REVIEWED** 

Laboratory Methods:

Clinical Laboratory Methods: 

Analyte: diethylene glycol diethyl ether; matrix: urine; procedure: gas chromatography with 

flame ionization detection 

[Hubner B et al; Fresenius' J Anal Chem 342(9): 746-8 (1992)] **PEER 

REVIEWED** 

Analytic Laboratory Methods: 

A monitoring method based on solvent extraction of adsorbed target glymes followed by gas 

chromatograph-mass spectrometry GC -MS analysis was developed for ... diethylene glycol 

diethyl ether. The best recoveries of target glymes were achieved when using a combination of 

sample collection medium of graphitised carbon black (GCB) with a solvent mixture of 

methylene chloride and methanol (95/5, v/v). Method detection /limit was/ ... 1.5 microg/cu m 

for diethylene glycol diethyl ether ... . Using this method ... diethylene glycol diethyl ether /was/ 

... detected and measured successfully in diluted vehicle exhausts in diesel fuel engine tests. 

[Cao XL, Zhu J; Chemosphere 45(6-7): 911-7 (2001)] **PEER REVIEWED** PubMed 

Abstract
Special References:

Special Reports: 

Department of Health & Human Services/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 

National Toxicology Program; Teratologic Evaluation Diethylene glycol diethyl ether (CAS 

No.112-36-7) Administered to CD-1 Mice on Gestational Days 6 through 15, NTP Study No. 

TER86059 (November 6, 1987) and Diethylene glycol diethyl ether (CAS No. 112-36-7) 

Administered to New Zealand White Rabbits on Gestational Days 6 through 19, NTP Study No. 

TER87060 (December 7, 1987). Available at 

http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/index.cfm?objectid=0847FF31-90CC-C685-88B4D7EAC975BD44 as of 

August 15, 2002 

Synonyms and Identifiers:

Synonyms: 

BIS(2-ETHOXYETHYL) ETHER 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

DIETHYL CARBITOL 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

DIETHYLDIETHYLENE GLYCOL 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

ETHANE, 1,1'-OXYBIS(2-ETHOXY- 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

ETHANOL, 2,2'-OXYBIS-, DIETHYL ETHER 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

ETHER, BIS(2-ETHOXYETHYL) 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

1-ETHOXY-2-(BETA-ETHOXYETHOXY)ETHANE 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

2-(2-ETHOXYETHOXY)-1-ETHOXYETHANE 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

ETHYL DIGLYME 

**PEER REVIEWED** 

3,6,9-TRIOXAUNDECANE 

**PEER REVIEWED** 
Administrative Information:

Hazardous Substances Databank Number: 68 

Last Revision Date: 20071011 

Last Review Date: Reviewed by SRP on 5/14/2007 

Update History: 

Complete Update on 2007-10-11, 43 fields added/edited/deleted 

Complete Update on 03/05/2003, 2 fields added/edited/deleted. 

Field Update on 02/14/2003, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Field Update on 11/08/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 05/13/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 02/13/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 01/18/2002, 3 fields added/edited/deleted. 

Field Update on 01/14/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 08/09/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 05/16/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 03/28/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 02/08/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 02/02/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 11/18/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 09/21/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 08/26/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 03/19/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 09/11/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 06/02/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 02/25/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 10/17/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 09/17/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 05/08/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 03/27/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 01/24/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 12/12/1996, 36 fields added/edited/deleted. 

Field Update on 10/12/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 01/18/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 12/19/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 03/25/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Field update on 12/10/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 04/16/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Field update on 03/06/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted. 

Complete Update on 10/31/1989, 2 fields added/edited/deleted. 
Complete Update on 10/14/1986 

Created 19830315 by SYS