MONOETHYLENE GLYCOL Meaning and
Definition
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Monoethylene glycol (MEG) is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid organic compound that belongs to the family of ethylene glycols. It is composed of two hydroxyl groups (-OH) attached to an ethylene linkage (-CH2-CH2-). This glycol is an essential industrial chemical with a wide range of applications.
MEG is primarily used as a raw material in the production of polyester fibers and resins, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It serves as a key ingredient in the manufacturing process of fabrics, carpets, bottles, and packaging materials. Its excellent hygroscopic properties make it an ideal antifreeze agent, commonly used in engine coolants and automotive fluids to prevent freezing and boiling due to its low freezing point and high boiling point.
Moreover, MEG finds significant utilization in the production of solvents, such as antifreeze agents, humectants, and resins. It acts as an excellent moisture absorbent, making it suitable for various applications in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Additionally, it is employed as a drying agent in natural gas processing plants, where it removes water to prevent freezing and hydrate formation.
Due to its low toxicity, MEG is considered safe for general use. It is essential to handle this chemical with care, as it can cause eye and skin irritation upon direct contact. Ingestion or inhalation of high concentrations may lead to gastrointestinal and respiratory distress. Therefore, proper safety precautions must be taken to ensure the safe handling, storage, and transportation of monoethylene glycol.
Common Misspellings for MONOETHYLENE GLYCOL
- nonoethylene glycol
- konoethylene glycol
- jonoethylene glycol
- minoethylene glycol
- mknoethylene glycol
- mlnoethylene glycol
- mpnoethylene glycol
- m0noethylene glycol
- m9noethylene glycol
- moboethylene glycol
- momoethylene glycol
- mojoethylene glycol
- mohoethylene glycol
- moniethylene glycol
- monkethylene glycol
- monlethylene glycol
- monpethylene glycol
- mon0ethylene glycol
- mon9ethylene glycol
- monowthylene glycol
Etymology of MONOETHYLENE GLYCOL
The word "Monoethylene Glycol" has the following etymology:
1. Mono-: a Latin combining form meaning "one" or "single".
2. Ethylene: derived from "ethene", which is the systematic name for the hydrocarbon with the formula C2H4. The term "ethylene" refers to a colorless gas that is essential in the production of plastics.
3. Glycol: derived from the Greek word "glykys", meaning "sweet". It refers to a class of organic compounds that contain multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Glycols are known for their sweet taste and are commonly used as solvents or antifreeze agents.
Combining these elements, "Monoethylene Glycol" describes a specific compound that contains a single ethylene group (C2H4) and has multiple hydroxyl groups.
