what is ethylene oxide used for
Ethylene Oxide. Ethylene oxide (EtO) is produced in large volumes and is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of several industrial chemicals, the most notable of which is ethylene glycol.It is also used as a fumigant in certain agricultural products and as a sterilant for medical equipment and supplies.thylene Oxide. Ethylene oxide (EtO) is produced in large volumes and is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of several industrial chemicals, the most notable of which is ethylene glycol.
Ethylene oxide is a man-made chemical that is used primarily to make ethylene glycol (a chemical used to make antifreeze and polyester). Ethylene oxide rapidly breaks down when released to the environment. 2  Because ethylene oxide is a gas, most is expected to be released to the air where it reacts with water vapor and sunlight and breaks down within a few days.