2-Hexoxyethanol Explained

2-Hexoxyethanol, or 2-(hexyloxy)ethanol, is a glycol ether that has a chemical formula of C₈H₁₈O_2.^[1]

Uses

2-Hexoxyethanol is used by professional workers (widespread uses), consumers, in re-packing or re-formulation, in manufacturing, and at industrial sites.^[2] It is used as high-boiling solvent. It also serves as an intermediate for neopentanoate and hexyloxyethyl phosphate. It serves as a coalescing agent in cleaners and latex paints.

Other uses of 2-hexoxyethanol are:

• Sealants
• Adhesives
• Coating products
• Finger Paints
• Fillers
• Anti-freeze products
• Plasters
• Putties
• Lubricants
• Modelling Clay
• Greases
• Automotive care products
• Machine wash liquids/detergents
• Air fresheners
• Fragrances
• Other outdoor use

Hazards

According to the European Chemicals Agency, it is classified as harmful when in contact with skin and when swallowed. It can also cause skin burns and serious eye damage.

2-Hexoxyethanol was also known to cause kidney injury and depression. It is also a severe respiratory tract irritant. It may also have blood effects. It may enter the body through ingestion, aerosol inhalation, and through the skin.^[3]

It may form explosive peroxides. It can react violently with strong oxidants.

It is classified as a green circle product EPA Safer Choice meaning it is of low concern.

References

1. Web site: 2-Hexoxyethanol - Hazardous Agents Haz-Map. 2021-05-01. haz-map.com.
2. Web site: 2-hexyloxyethanol - Substance Information - ECHA. 2021-05-01. echa.europa.eu. en-GB.
3. Web site: ETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOHEXYL ETHER. live. May 1, 2021. INCHEM. https://web.archive.org/web/20051016101816/http://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1571.htm . 2005-10-16 .

External links

• https://contaminantdb.ca/contaminants/CHEM009405
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/2-_Hexyloxy_ethanol#section=CAS
• https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/inchi/InChI=1S/C8H18O2/c1-2-3-4-5-7-10-8-6-9/h9H,2-8H2,1H3