Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether – Industrial & Cosmetic Grade Solvent
Introduction:
Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether (DEGEE) is a clear, colorless, and hygroscopic liquid used as a solvent and coalescing agent in various industrial, commercial, and household formulations. Known for its excellent solvency, low evaporation rate, and compatibility with both water and organic compounds, DEGEE is widely employed in paints, coatings, cleaners, inks, textiles, cosmetics, and electronics.
Also referred to by trade names or simply as Ethoxydiglycol, DEGEE is a crucial ingredient in formulations that are solvent-based or water-based because of its ability to dissolve a broad variety of hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds.
Chemical Information
Chemical Name: Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether
Other Names: Ethoxydiglycol, DEGEE
CAS Number: 111-90-0
Molecular Formula: C6H14O3
Molecular Weight: 134.17 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild, ether-like
Boiling Point: ~196°C
Flash Point: ~96°C
Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents
How It Is Made
DEGEE is produced by the ethoxylation of ethanol with ethylene oxide in a controlled environment. This process involves the addition of two ethylene oxide units to an ethanol molecule, resulting in the formation of a monoether of diethylene glycol.
The reaction is catalyzed by alkaline agents and carefully monitored for temperature and pressure to ensure safety and optimal yield. After synthesis, the mixture is purified through distillation to remove by-products and unreacted materials. The ultimate product is an extremely pure DEGEE solvent that comes in many grades based on the needs of the final product (industrial, technical, or cosmetic grade).
Industrial Usage
DEGEE's unique chemical profile enables its use across diverse sectors:
Paints & Coatings
DEGEE functions as a coalescing agent and film-forming aid in latex-based paints and coatings. It helps soften polymer particles, allowing them to fuse into a continuous film, which improves both appearance and durability.
Household & Industrial Cleaners
Due to its low volatility and strong solvency, DEGEE is used in multi-surface cleaners, glass cleaners, degreasers, and industrial detergents. It enhances cleaning performance by dissolving grease, oils, and soap scum.
Printing Inks It acts as a solvent in water-based inks to improve flow and drying time without sacrificing print quality.
Textiles & Leather Processing
DEGEE is used as a carrier solvent and wetting agent in dyeing and finishing operations, where it improves dye penetration and uniformity.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
In personal care products, DEGEE serves as a humectant, solubilizer, and penetration enhancer in lotions, creams, deodorants, and hair sprays. Its low toxicity and high solvency make it ideal for skin-contact formulations.
Electronics & Semiconductor Cleaning
DEGEE is used as a precision cleaning solvent in electronics for removing ionic contaminants and residues from circuit boards and sensitive components.
Agriculture
In agrochemicals, DEGEE is used as a carrier and spreading agent in herbicide and pesticide formulations.
Countries of Origin
Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether is manufactured in several countries with established chemical industries:
China – The largest producer, offering industrial and technical grades at cost-effective pricing.
India – Supplies REACH-compliant DEGEE for global export.
Germany/EU – Offers high-purity cosmetic and pharmaceutical-grade products.
USA – Known for ultra-pure and FDA-compliant personal care formulations.
Japan and South Korea – Specialized suppliers of electronics-grade DEGEE for niche applications.
Packaging We Offer
At Abdul Sattar Sons, we provide DEGEE in packaging solutions tailored for industrial safety and logistical efficiency:
200-liter HDPE drums – For bulk use in manufacturing facilities
IBC tanks (1000 liters) – For large-scale production and international shipments
25-liter jerry cans – For sampling or small-scale usage
ISO tank containers – For export of large quantities
Custom labeling and palletization – Available upon request
Every shipment comes with a Certificate of Analysis. (COA), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and export documents, and we adhere to GHS labeling and packaging standards for chemical safety.
Benefits of DEGEE
High solvency power for both water- and oil-based compounds
Low volatility for longer drying times when needed
Enhances flow, spreadability, and stability in formulations
Excellent compatibility with resins, polymers, and actives
Low odor, low toxicity, and safe for regulated applications
Available in multiple grades (technical, industrial, cosmetic)
REACH, RoHS, and FDA-compliant sources available
Abdul Sattar Sons – Global DEGEE Supplier
Abdul Sattar Sons is a trusted name in the international trade and distribution of Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether (DEGEE). We specialize in exporting solvents, glycols, and specialty chemicals to clients across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, and other regions.
Our partnerships with top manufacturers in China, India, Germany, and the United States enable us to provide a consistent supply of premium DEGEE grades for industries such as paints, coatings, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and cleaning.
Abdul Sattar Sons guarantees a smooth and expert procurement process with reasonable price, adaptable packaging, and full regulatory compliance. We meet your needs with prompt shipping, thorough documentation, and committed assistance, whether you need small numbers for R&D or large volumes for manufacturing.
Get in touch with us today to receive a quote or sample for your Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether requirements. We're ready to help you source the best chemicals globally.
