Description
Tetraethylene Glycol (TTEG) is a high-purity polyether diol with the molecular formula HO(CH₂CH₂O)₄H (C₈H₁₈O₅, CAS 112-60-7). This transparent, colorless, practically odorless liquid is characterized by its moderate viscosity, low volatility, and hygroscopic properties—the highest molecular weight member of the common ethylene glycol oligomer series produced commercially. TTEG offers a higher boiling point (327°C), higher molecular weight (194.23 g/mol), and lower hygroscopicity compared to triethylene glycol, making it the preferred choice for applications requiring these enhanced properties. The compound is completely miscible with water and many organic solvents including ethanol, acetone, acetic acid, glycerin, pyridine, aldehydes, carbon tetrachloride, and diethyl ether, while remaining immiscible with oils, benzene, toluene, fats, and aliphatic hydrocarbons. The terminal hydroxyl groups undergo standard alcohol chemistry, enabling conversion to a wide variety of derivatives including esters, ethers, aldehydes, amines, and organic esters—providing exceptional versatility as a chemical intermediate, plasticizer, solvent, and processing aid.
- Highest Boiling Point in Series: 327°C boiling point exceeds triethylene glycol (288°C), enabling use in higher-temperature applications with minimal volatility losses.
- Lower Hygroscopicity: Reduced moisture absorption compared to lower glycols allows better performance in humidity-sensitive formulations.
- Excellent Solvency: Complete miscibility with water and broad organic solvent compatibility provides versatile dissolution and coupling capabilities.
- Chemical Versatility: Terminal hydroxyl groups enable derivatization to esters, ethers, amines, and other functional compounds for specialty chemical synthesis.
Applications
Natural Gas Dehydration · Gas Processing · Plasticizer · Polyester Resin Production · Unsaturated Polyester Resins · Nitrocellulose Solvent · Lacquers & Coatings · Hydraulic Fluids · Chemical Intermediate · Ink Manufacturing · Dye Production · Textile Lubricant Formulations · Coupling Agent · Tetraethylene Glycol Methacrylate Synthesis · Surface Modification (Protein-Resistant Coatings) · High-Temperature Reactions · Separation Processes · Hydrocarbon Purification · Heat Transfer Fluids · Lubricant Formulations · Specialty Chemical Manufacturing
Benefits
High Boiling Point · Low Volatility · Excellent Thermal Stability · Broad Solvent Compatibility · Complete Water Miscibility · Versatile Chemical Intermediate · Lower Hygroscopicity than TEG · Good Plasticizing Properties · Consistent Quality · Low Toxicity Profile · Non-Carcinogenic (not listed by IARC) · Multiple Packaging Options · Domestic Availability
Product Availability
500 mL · 2500 mL · Drum · IBC Tote · Bulk
Product Data
| Property | Test Method | Value |
| Appearance | Visual | Clear, Colorless to Straw-Colored Liquid |
| Odor | — | Practically Odorless / Mild |
| Chemical Name | IUPAC | 2-[2-[2-(2-Hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy]ethanol |
| Synonyms | — | Tetraglycol, TTEG, T4EG, TetraEG, Hi-Dry |
| CAS Number | — | 112-60-7 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | — | 203-989-9 |
| Molecular Formula | — | C₈H₁₈O₅ |
| Molecular Weight | — | 194.23 g/mol |
| Purity | — | 99% minimum (typical) |
| pH | — | ~8.5 |
| Specific Gravity @ 20/20°C | — | 1.125 |
| Bulk Density | — | 9.4 lb/gal @ 20°C |
| Refractive Index @ 20°C | — | 1.459 |
| Boiling Point @ 760 mmHg | — | 327–328°C (621°F) |
| Melting Point / Freezing Point | — | -4°C (25°F) |
| Flash Point (PMCC) | ASTM D 93 | 193°C (379°F) |
| Vapor Pressure @ 20°C | — | <0.01 mmHg |
| Vapor Density (Air = 1) | — | 6.7 |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | — | 61.9 mPa·s (cP) |
| Water Solubility | — | Miscible (complete) |
| NFPA 704 Rating | — | Health 1, Flammability 1, Instability 0 |
| RTECS Number | — | XC2100000 |
| HS Code | — | 2909 49 80 |
| TSCA Status | — | Listed |
Note: Tetraethylene glycol is hygroscopic and will absorb atmospheric moisture; store in tightly sealed containers to maintain product quality. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and strong bases—avoid contact with these materials. TTEG may attack some forms of plastics; verify compatibility before use in plastic systems. The compound is combustible when preheated; keep away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. Use appropriate eye protection—flush eyes thoroughly with water if contact occurs and seek medical attention if irritation develops. TTEG is not classified as a dangerous good for transport. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete hazard information, exposure limits, first aid measures, and handling precautions.
