Triethylene Glycol
What is TEG ?
TEG stands for "Triethylene Glycol." It is a chemical compound and a member of the ethylene glycol family, similar to Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) and Diethylene Glycol (DEG). TEG has the chemical formula C6H14O4 and a molecular weight of 150.17 g/mol.
Triethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, and hygroscopic liquid with a slightly sweet taste. It is soluble in water and many organic solvents. TEG has several important applications in various industries, including:
Dehydration Agent: One of the significant uses of TEG is as a dehydrating agent in natural gas processing. It is used to remove water vapor from natural gas streams, preventing the formation of hydrates and ensuring the gas meets pipeline specifications.
Solvent:TEG serves as a versatile solvent in the chemical industry. It is utilized in the formulation of adhesives, inks, and other chemical products.
Humectant:TEG is commonly used as a humectant in personal care and cosmetic products, such as skin creams, lotions, and hair care items. It helps to retain moisture and prevents drying of the skin and hair.
Heat Transfer Fluid:Due to its ability to resist freezing and low toxicity, TEG is employed as a heat transfer fluid in various industrial processes and applications, including heating and cooling systems.
Chemical Intermediate: TEG serves as a precursor for the synthesis of various chemicals and compounds.
Plasticizer: TEG can function as a plasticizer in some polymer formulations, enhancing flexibility and improving mechanical properties.
Food Industry:In the food industry, TEG is used as a component in some food additives and flavoring agents.
History of TEG
The history of Triethylene Glycol (TEG) can be traced back to the mid-19th century, alongside the discovery and development of other ethylene glycols. Here are some key milestones in the history of TEG:
Early Research: The discovery and synthesis of TEG can be attributed to the pioneering work of early chemists and scientists who were investigating ethylene glycols and related compounds. The synthesis of TEG was likely achieved through the reaction of ethylene oxide with water.
Commercial Production: The commercial production of TEG began in the early 20th century. As chemical knowledge advanced, companies recognized the value of TEG and started producing it on a larger scale to meet growing industrial demand.
Industrial Applications: TEG's use as a dehydrating agent in the natural gas industry is one of its earliest and most significant applications. Its ability to remove water vapor from natural gas streams without freezing made it a valuable component in gas processing and transportation.
Continued Development: Throughout the 20th century, research and development in the field of chemistry led to a deeper understanding of TEG's properties and applications. Its role as a heat transfer fluid, solvent, and humectant in various industries further expanded its use.
Modern Applications: In the modern era, TEG continues to find applications in industries such as petrochemicals, oil and gas, cosmetics, textiles, and manufacturing, among others. Advances in technology and production methods have made TEG more accessible and cost-effective for a broad range of applications.
Safety and Regulations: Over time, safety standards and regulations have been developed to ensure the safe handling, storage, and transportation of TEG, as with any chemical substance.
Usages of TEG
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) is a versatile chemical with a range of important applications in various industries. Some of the common usages of TEG include:
Dehydration Agent: One of the primary uses of TEG is as a dehydrating agent in the natural gas industry. It is used to remove water vapor from natural gas streams, preventing the formation of hydrates and ensuring the gas meets pipeline specifications.
Heat Transfer Fluid: TEG is utilized as a heat transfer fluid in various industrial processes, such as heating and cooling systems. It has a high boiling point and low freezing point, making it suitable for use in applications that require a wide range of operating temperatures.
Solvent: TEG serves as a versatile solvent in the chemical industry. It is used in the formulation of adhesives, inks, and other chemical products.
Humectant: TEG is commonly used as a humectant in personal care and cosmetic products, such as skin creams, lotions, and hair care items. It helps to retain moisture and prevents drying of the skin and hair.
Chemical Intermediate:TEG serves as a precursor for the synthesis of various chemicals and compounds, making it valuable in the production of certain polymers and chemical processes.
Plasticizer: In some polymer formulations, TEG can function as a plasticizer, enhancing flexibility and improving mechanical properties.
Food Industry:TEG is used as a component in some food additives and flavoring agents in the food industry.
Gas Dehydration in Industries:TEG is employed in various industries to remove water from process gases, helping to maintain the efficiency of equipment and processes.
Liquid Desiccant: TEG is used as a liquid desiccant in air conditioning and humidity control systems to reduce moisture levels in the air.
Chemical Processing: TEG is employed in chemical processing and refining industries as a component in various chemical reactions and separation processes.
Packing of TEG
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) is typically packed and transported in various types of containers and packaging materials to ensure safe handling and storage. The packaging of TEG depends on its intended use, volume, and mode of transportation. Here are some common methods of packing TEG:
Drums:TEG is commonly packed in steel drums or plastic drums. The standard size of these drums is usually 55 gallons (approximately 208 liters). Drums are suitable for smaller quantities of TEG and are easy to handle and transport.
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs): For larger quantities, TEG may be packed in IBCs, which are large containers with capacities ranging from 275 gallons (about 1,041 liters) to 330 gallons (about 1,249 liters). IBCs are designed for bulk transport and storage and are often used in industrial settings.
Tank Trucks and Railcars: When large volumes of TEG are required, it can be transported in tank trucks or railcars. These vehicles have specialized containers with high capacities to transport large quantities of liquids safely.
Isotanks: Isotanks are large, cylindrical containers designed for intermodal transport. They can hold a substantial amount of TEG and are used for international shipping and long-distance transportation.
Flexitanks:Flexitanks are flexible containers made of multiple layers of polyethylene, which can hold up to 24,000 liters of liquid. They are commonly used for the transportation of liquids, including TEG, via sea or land, as they provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional shipping containers.
Delivery time and Readiness of TEG
The delivery time and readiness of Triethylene Glycol (TEG) can vary depending on several factors, including the supplier, location, quantity ordered, and the current market conditions. Here are some factors that can affect the delivery time and readiness of TEG:
Supplier Location:The distance between the supplier's location and the delivery destination can impact the delivery time. Suppliers closer to the delivery location may offer shorter delivery times compared to those located farther away.
Production Capacity:The production capacity of the TEG manufacturer can influence the readiness of the product.Suppliers with larger production capacities may have a more readily available supply of TEG.
Inventory Levels:The supplier's inventory levels can also affect the readiness of TEG. Suppliers with higher inventory levels are more likely to have the product readily available for immediate delivery.
Demand and Order Volume: High demand or large order volumes may lead to longer delivery times, especially if the supplier needs to produce or procure additional quantities of TEG to fulfill the order.
Shipping and Logistics: The availability of transportation and logistics services can impact the delivery time. Delays in shipping or customs clearance can extend the overall delivery time.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Unforeseen events, such as natural disasters, accidents, or production issues, can cause disruptions in the supply chain and affect the availability and delivery time of TEG.
Analysis Table of TEG
| Test | Result | Unit | Ref. |
| Appearance | Clear Liquid | - | Visual |
| Specific Gravity@20 C | 1.125 | - | ASTM D4 |
| Purity | 99.45 | %wt | E202 |
| DEG | 0.5 | %wt | E202 |
| Other | 0.05 | %wt | E202 |
| Distillation | 280-290 | C | D1078 |
| Water | 0.1 | %wt | ASTM E203 |