| Structure |  |
|---|---|
| Formula |
C4H8O2 |
| CAS No. | 764-48-7 |
| EC No. | 212-124-4 |
| Synonyms | 2-ethenoxyethanol; 2-(Ethenyloxy)ethanol; 2-Hydroxyethyl vinyl ether; 2-vinyloxyethanol; 2-(Vinyloxy)ethanol; Ethanol, 2-(ethenyloxy)-; Ethanol, 2-(ethenyloxy)-; Ethanol, 2-(vinyloxy)-; Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether; Ethylene glycol vinyl ether; Vinyloxyethanol |
Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether
Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether, also known as 2-vinyloxyethanol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₄H₈O₂. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild odor, and it is soluble in water and many organic solvents. This compound features both a vinyl ether group and a hydroxyl group, giving it unique reactivity that is useful in various chemical syntheses. Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether is commonly used as a reactive monomer, solvent, and intermediate in the production of polymers, coatings, and adhesives.
Applications
- Polymer and Copolymer Synthesis: Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether is often used as a monomer or comonomer in polymer production. Its vinyl ether functionality enables rapid polymerization, contributing to polymers with flexibility, adhesion, and resistance to moisture, commonly used in coatings, adhesives, and sealants.
- UV-Curable Coatings and Inks: Due to its ability to polymerize quickly under UV light, ethylene glycol monovinyl ether is used in UV-curable coatings and inks. It helps produce coatings with strong adhesion, chemical resistance, and durability, ideal for applications in electronics, packaging, and printing.
- Adhesives and Sealants: Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether acts as a cross-linking agent in adhesives and sealants, where it improves flexibility, adhesion, and durability. Its hydroxyl group can form hydrogen bonds, enhancing bonding strength on surfaces such as metal, glass, and plastic.
- Chemical Intermediate: Ethylene glycol monovinyl ether is used as an intermediate in chemical synthesis. Its reactivity makes it valuable in creating more complex chemical compounds and functional polymers, particularly where a combination of hydrophilic and reactive vinyl properties is desired.
- Solvent and Cleaning Applications: Due to its mild solvent properties, ethylene glycol monovinyl ether can be used in specific cleaning and solvent applications, particularly for coatings or formulations requiring a mild yet effective solvent.
- Cosmetic and Personal Care Formulations: Occasionally, ethylene glycol monovinyl ether is used in personal care products for its solvent properties and compatibility with other ingredients, enhancing product consistency and stability.
Shelf Life
Under proper storage conditions, the shelf life is 12 months.
Health & Safety
Detailed information on the product described can be found in our relevant Health and Safety Information (Material Safety Data Sheet).