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Glycols and Glycol Ethers
Glycols and Glycol Ethers are a diverse class of organic diols and alkoxy alcohols used primarily as heat transfer fluids, antifreeze agents, and high-performance solvents. These chemicals, including Ethylene Glycol (CAS 107-21-1) and Propylene Glycol (CAS 57-55-6), are valued for their ability to lower the freezing point of water while providing high boiling points and excellent solvency. In industrial settings, inhibited glycols are the standard for protecting multi-metal cooling systems from corrosion and scale.
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About Glycols and Glycol Ethers
About Glycols and Glycol Ethers
Glycols and Glycol Ethers are a diverse class of organic diols and alkoxy alcohols used primarily as heat transfer fluids, antifreeze agents, and high-performance solvents. These chemicals, including Ethylene Glycol (CAS 107-21-1) and Propylene Glycol (CAS 57-55-6), are valued for their ability to lower the freezing point of water while providing high boiling points and excellent solvency. In industrial settings, inhibited glycols are the standard for protecting multi-metal cooling systems from corrosion and scale.
Common Applications
- HVAC Chiller Systems: Use of inhibited ethylene or propylene glycol to prevent freezing and corrosion in commercial closed-loop systems.
- Data Center Cooling: High-efficiency heat transfer in liquid-cooled server racks using specialty inhibited formulations to maintain 24/7 uptime.
- Food & Beverage Processing: Utilization of Propylene Glycol USP as a secondary coolant in brewery glycol jackets and food cooling coils.
- Aerospace & Deicing: Application of ethylene glycol-based fluids for aircraft wing deicing and runway anti-icing operations.
- Industrial Solvents: Glycol ethers like Butyl Cellosolve (EB) serve as critical coupling agents in paints, coatings, and heavy-duty cleaners.
- Hygroscopic Applications: Propylene glycol acts as a humectant in cosmetics and pharmaceutical formulations to retain moisture.
What We Carry
Alliance Chemical stocks a comprehensive inventory of glycols in technical, USP, and inhibited grades, available in concentrations ranging from 30/70 to 100% concentrates. We offer custom blending for specific freeze-point requirements and package in 1-gallon bottles, 5-gallon pails, 55-gallon drums, and 275-gallon IBC totes.
| Grade | Purity / Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ethylene Glycol Technical | 99.0% Min | Industrial antifreeze, chemical feedstock, polyester manufacturing. |
| Propylene Glycol USP | 99.7% Min | Food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and HVAC in sensitive areas. |
| Inhibited Glycols | 95% + Inhibitors | HVAC, chillers, and data centers requiring corrosion protection for copper/steel. |
| Glycol Ethers (EB/DB) | High Purity | Industrial degreasing, solvent-based coatings, and coupling agents. |
Safety & Handling
Glycols require careful handling depending on their toxicity profile; Ethylene Glycol is classified as GHS07 (Exclamation Mark) and GHS08 (Health Hazard) due to its acute toxicity if ingested and potential for organ damage. Personnel must wear appropriate PPE, including chemical-resistant nitrile gloves and safety goggles, as mandated by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132. Propylene Glycol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) but still requires standard industrial hygiene to avoid eye irritation.
Storage should be in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers such as nitric acid or sulfuric acid, in accordance with NFPA 704 guidelines. For spill response, glycols are regulated under EPA RCRA; significant releases of ethylene glycol (Reportable Quantity of 5,000 lbs) must be reported to the National Response Center. In case of ingestion of ethylene glycol, seek immediate medical attention; do not induce vomiting unless directed by a physician. Safety Data Sheets are provided with all shipments.
Sourcing & Quality
Shipped from Taylor, Texas — same-day on in-stock items.
COA included with every order. Certificate of Analysis documents lot-specific purity and specifications.
28 years serving 55,000+ customers including 244 federal contracts.
✓ SDS Included ✓ COA Available ⚡ Same-Day Shipping ★ No Minimum Order
Last updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ethylene and propylene glycol for chiller systems?
Ethylene glycol offers superior heat transfer efficiency and lower viscosity at low temperatures, but it is toxic to humans and animals. Propylene glycol has a lower heat transfer efficiency but is used where low toxicity is required, such as in food processing facilities or residential HVAC systems. In industrial chillers, the choice depends on local environmental regulations and the specific thermal requirements of the heat exchanger.
Does inhibited glycol protect against corrosion in copper piping?
Yes, inhibited glycols contain a proprietary package of dipotassium phosphate and other buffers designed to passivate metal surfaces and prevent galvanic corrosion. According to ASTM D1384 standards, these inhibitors maintain a stable pH (typically 8.0 to 10.0) to protect copper, brass, steel, and cast iron components. Without inhibitors, glycol naturally degrades into organic acids that aggressively attack system metals.
What are the DOT shipping requirements for bulk ethylene glycol?
Under DOT 49 CFR 172.101, ethylene glycol is only regulated as a hazardous material when shipped in a single container that meets or exceeds the Reportable Quantity (RQ) of 5,000 pounds (approximately 535 gallons). For shipments below this threshold, such as individual 55-gallon drums, it is generally shipped as non-regulated. However, if it meets the RQ, it must be labeled as Environmentally Hazardous Substance, Liquid, N.O.S., Class 9, UN3082.
How do I calculate the glycol concentration needed for burst protection vs freeze protection?
Freeze protection is required when the system must remain pumpable, requiring a concentration where no ice crystals form at the lowest expected temperature. Burst protection allows the fluid to form a slush but prevents the expansion that ruptures pipes, typically requiring a lower concentration (approx. 35% for -20°F). Engineers should consult concentration charts for specific CAS 107-21-1 or CAS 57-55-6 formulations to ensure the fluid's slush point remains above the system's mechanical limits.
Can I mix different brands of inhibited glycol in the same system?
Mixing different brands is generally discouraged because inhibitor chemistries (such as OAT, NOAT, or phosphate-based) can react, causing the inhibitors to precipitate out of the solution. This can lead to localized corrosion and clogged heat exchangers. If mixing is unavoidable, a laboratory compatibility test or a full system flush as per ASHRAE guidelines is recommended to ensure the resulting pH and reserve alkalinity remain within specification.
What PPE is required by OSHA for handling concentrated glycols?
Per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 and 1910.133, workers should wear chemical splash goggles and nitrile or butyl rubber gloves to prevent skin and eye contact. While Propylene Glycol USP has low vapor pressure, Ethylene Glycol handled at high temperatures or in aerosol form may require respiratory protection if concentrations exceed the OSHA PEL of 50 ppm (ceiling). Always refer to Section 8 of the SDS for specific exposure controls.
How do I dispose of used industrial glycol according to EPA regulations?
Used glycol is not automatically classified as hazardous waste under EPA RCRA (40 CFR Part 261) unless it has become contaminated with heavy metals (like lead or chrome from the system) or has been mixed with other hazardous solvents. However, many state and local municipalities prohibit the disposal of glycol into sanitary sewers. It is mandatory to perform a waste characterization before disposal through a licensed hazardous waste contractor.
Is Propylene Glycol USP grade required for all food-contact applications?
Yes, any application where the glycol may incidentally come into contact with food, beverages, or pharmaceuticals requires USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) grade Propylene Glycol. This ensures the material meets strict purity standards for heavy metals and impurities. Technical grade glycol may contain industrial byproducts that are not safe for human consumption or pharmaceutical use.
What is the typical shelf life of inhibited glycol in original packaging?
Inhibited glycol typically has a shelf life of 2 years in its original, unopened container when stored between 40°F and 100°F (4°C to 38°C). The inhibitors are stable but can slowly deplete if exposed to air or extreme temperature fluctuations. For long-term storage, it is recommended to test the reserve alkalinity and pH annually to ensure the inhibitor package remains active before installing it into a system.
Guides & Resources
AI GPU Cooling Revolution: Deionized Water, Ethylene Glycol & Propylene Glycol – The Ultimate Liquid Cooling Guide
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Data Center Glycol Inhibitor Chemistry Guide | OAT vs NOAT vs HOAT
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Maintaining Peak Cooling Performance: Ethylene Glycol (Inhibited) in HVAC Chillers
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The Engineer's Guide to Ethylene Glycol for Heat Transfer Systems
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The Essential Guide to Propylene Glycol in Food & Beverage Manufacturing
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