Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether DPM (CAS:34590-94-8) Supplier in Europe

Dipropylene glycol methyl ether is a versatile organic solvent known for its use across various industries. It is a colorless liquid with a mild, ether-like odor and possesses properties that make it suitable for applications requiring a solvent with a higher boiling point and lower volatility than propylene glycol methyl ether.

Its utility extends to the formulation of paints, varnishes, and lacquers, where it acts as an effective solvent and can improve the application and drying properties of coating compounds.

The chemical is recognized for its compatibility with water and numerous organic solvents, which gives it a wide range of uses from industrial settings to consumer products. In addition to its role in surface coatings, dipropylene glycol methyl ether is found in cleaners, inks, and cosmetics, where it may function as a coupling agent and contribute to the overall stability and performance of the product.

Despite its efficacy and benefits, the compound should be utilized responsibly due to potential irritation effects and should be handled with proper safety precautions in place to minimize exposure risks.

Chemical Properties

Dipropylene glycol methyl ether (DPM) demonstrates several key chemical properties that make it a valuable solvent in various industrial and commercial applications. Its molecular structure, physical state, and solubility characteristics are critical in understanding its utility and handling.

Molecular Structure

The chemical formula of dipropylene glycol methyl ether is C7H16O3. Its molecular structure is comprised of 7 carbon atoms, 16 hydrogen atoms, and 3 oxygen atoms, which form a stable ether molecule. It contains two propylene glycol units joined by an ether linkage to a methyl group – this configuration imparts its solvent properties.

Physical State and Appearance

Dipropylene glycol methyl ether is typically a colorless liquid. It’s characterized by a weak odor, which makes it relatively user-friendly regarding sensory impact. The liquid’s appearance is indicative of its purity and it maintains this physical state under standard conditions of temperature and pressure.

Solubility and Reactivity

Solubility:

• Water solubility: 100%, indicating high hydrophilicity
• Soluble in a wide range of solvent systems

Reactivity:

• Generally stable under ordinary conditions of use and storage
• May react violently with strong oxidizing agents
• Can produce flammable and/or toxic gases upon interaction with strong reducing agents such as alkali metals and nitrides

Production and Synthesis

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether (DPM) is an organic solvent produced through specific industrial processes. This section will provide details on industrial methods used for the synthesis of DPM and the quality control measures that ensure the purity and effectiveness of the product.

Industrial Synthesis Methods

Alcoholysis of Propylene Oxide: One common industrial method for producing Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether involves the alcoholysis reaction of propylene oxide (PO) with methanol. This reaction utilizes an acid or a base as a catalyst to enhance the reaction rate and yield.

• Typical reaction conditions: Moderate temperatures and pressure
• Catalysts used: Acids like sulfuric acid or bases such as sodium hydroxide

Imidazole Catalysis: Another synthesis method of DPM is catalyzed by imidazole, which presents as an alternative to traditional catalysts mentioned above. This process aims for a high yield at lower costs and reduced environmental impact.

• Advantages:
  • Eco-friendliness
  • Cost-effective production

Quality Control Measures

To ensure that Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether meets industrial standards and performs as expected in commercial applications, rigorous quality control measures are implemented.

• Purity Analysis: Gas chromatography (GC) is widely used to evaluate the purity of the synthesized product. Samples are compared against a standard reference to determine their composition.
• Impurity Detection: Impurity profiles are crucial for quality assessment. Common impurities, including other glycol ethers, must be detected and quantified.

Applications

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether (DPM) serves as a versatile solvent and additive across various industries due to its favorable properties such as low odor and slow evaporation rate.

Solvent Uses

DPM is widely utilized as a solvent due to its lower volatility compared to other glycol ethers. In the paints and coatings industry, it enhances the application properties of products. Additionally, its 100% water solubility makes it an excellent coupling agent in water-based formulations and solvent systems.

Cosmetic Industry

In the cosmetic industry, DPM is often used as an ingredient in personal care products. It functions effectively as a solubilizer, helping to mix oil and water components, and as a stabilizer, maintaining the consistency and efficacy of the cosmetic formulation.

Industrial Cleaner Formulations

DPM’s attributes make it suitable for industrial cleaning agents, particularly in formulations for wax strippers and floor cleaners. It’s applied over large areas where its slow evaporation rate is beneficial for prolonged action and reduced odor during indoor use.

Health and Safety

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether (DPGME) is a solvent with applications across industries, its safety and health implications primarily concern occupational exposure. It’s essential for workers and safety personnel to be aware of potential risks, understand the substance’s toxicological properties, and follow established safety handling guidelines.

Exposure Risks

Workers may be exposed to DPGME through inhalation, dermal contact, or eye contact, particularly in industrial settings where it is used or produced. The potential for exposure necessitates rigorous workplace safety controls to minimize risks.

• Inhalation: High concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
• Dermal: Prolonged skin contact could lead to irritation.
• Eye contact: May cause eye irritation upon direct exposure.

Toxicological Profile

DPGME has been the subject of toxicological studies that shed light on its impact on health. The toxicological effects are determined based on the concentration and duration of exposure.

• Acute Toxicity: Lower concentrations may not pose significant health risks, but high concentrations have been associated with irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.
• Chronic Toxicity: Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health effects, although specific long-term toxicity information may be limited.

Safety Handling Procedures

To ensure the safety of those who may come into contact with DPGME, certain handling procedures should be strictly followed:

1. Ventilation: Adequate ventilation should be maintained in areas where DPGME is stored or used.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Gloves: Wear appropriate chemical-resistant gloves.
• Eye Protection: Use safety goggles or face shields.
• Respirators: Employ respirators in areas of high vapor concentrations.

1. Storage: Store DPGME in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from heat or open flame.
2. Spill Response: In the event of a spill, use inert absorbents and follow proper disposal guidelines.

Environmental Impact

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether’s environmental impact primarily stems from its interaction with ecosystems, notably concerning its biodegradability and potential exposure risks to ecosystems.

Biodegradability

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether (DPGME) is known to be subjected to biodegradation in environmental conditions. The rate and extent of its biodegradability can vary based on environmental factors such as the presence of specific microbes that can metabolize these compounds. DPGME’s structure influences its breakdown; it typically undergoes aerobic biodegradation, transforming into less harmful substances over time.

Ecosystem Exposure Risks

The exposure of DPGME to ecosystems principally arises through industrial release and improper disposal. While the compound is of low toxicity, concerns persist regarding the effects of long-term exposure, which could lead to adaptive changes in the liver and kidney in wildlife. The potential environmental concentrations of DPGME need to be monitored to avoid detrimental health effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms.

Regulatory Information

Regulatory bodies worldwide have specific guidelines governing the use, handling, storage, and disposal of chemical substances, including Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether (DPM). Compliance is mandatory to ensure safety and environmental standards are met.

Global Regulations

DPM is subject to a variety of global regulations to ensure it is used and managed safely. For instance, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) includes it within its REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, ensuring that chemicals are safely managed.

In the United States, no regulatory information specific to DPM under the CISA Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) is noted. However, it falls under general chemical regulatory frameworks, such as those enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where safety management and reporting obligations are mandatory for facilities handling hazardous chemicals.

Compliance and Labeling Requirements

In terms of compliance and labeling, DPM must adhere to appropriate hazard classifications and labeling practices. The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) provides standardized criteria for labeling such chemicals.

• Containers of DPM must display a hazard pictogram, signal word, hazard statements, precautionary statements, and supplier identification.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must accompany shipments and should be readily available where the chemical is used or stored, outlining detailed instructions on handling and emergency measures in case of accidental spillage or exposure.

Storage and Stability

Proper storage conditions and understanding the chemical stability of Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether are crucial for maintaining its integrity and safety.

Storage Conditions

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent moisture ingress and contamination. It is recommended that they be stored at a temperature between 15°C and 30°C to preserve the solvent’s quality.

Recommended Storage Parameters:

• Temperature: 15°C – 30°C
• Environment: Cool, dry, well-ventilated
• Container: Tightly sealed, moisture-resistant

Chemical Stability

The compound is chemically stable under standard conditions. However, Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether can react with oxidizing materials, and it should therefore not be stored near such chemicals. To maintain stability, it should also be kept away from extreme temperatures and sources of ignition.

• Avoid extremes of temperature and direct sunlight.
• Store away from oxidizing agents and sources of ignition.
• Ensure adherence to recommended storage conditions to prevent degradation.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some of the most common inquiries about Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether, focusing on its uses, health effects, safety measures, boiling point, where to find its safety documentation, and specific applications such as in reed diffusers.

What are the common applications of Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether in the industry?

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether is used extensively as a solvent in various industrial applications, including paints, coatings, inks, and cleaners.

Due to its solubility in water, it is also used as a coupling agent in various solvent systems.

What are the potential health effects associated with Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether exposure?

Exposure to Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.

High levels of exposure may lead to more serious health effects such as kidney and liver damage.

What safety precautions should be taken when handling Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether?

When handling this chemical, it is important to wear protective gear, including gloves and goggles, and ensure adequate ventilation.

In case of spillage, follow proper cleaning procedures as outlined in the SDS.

At what temperature does Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether boil?

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether has a relatively high boiling point, typically boiling at around 190°C (374°F).

Where can I find the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether?

The SDS for Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether can be obtained from the manufacturer or supplier.

It is also likely to be available online through their official websites or chemical safety databases.

How is Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether used in reed diffusers?

In reed diffusers, Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether acts as a solvent for essential oils. It ensures a steady evaporation rate and consistent diffusion of the fragrance into the air.