
Definition of Triethylene Glycol (TEG)
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) is a chemical compound that is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid. It is a type of glycol, specifically a polyether compound, with the chemical formula (C_6H_O_4). TEG is commonly used in a variety of industrial applications, primarily as a desiccant (drying agent) for natural gas and air conditioning systems due to its hygroscopic (water-attracting) properties. It is also used as a solvent, in the production of plasticizers, and in some antifreeze formulations. Additionally, TEG can be found in products like hydraulic fluids and inks.
Because of its low toxicity and effectiveness in absorbing moisture, TEG is a key component in systems where moisture removal is critical.
How is Triethylene Glycol (TEG) produced?
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) is typically produced through a chemical process known as *ethoxylation* or *oxyethylene condensation*. This process involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol. Here's an overview of the production process:
- Starting Materials : The process begins with ethylene glycol (EG) and ethylene oxide (EO). Ethylene glycol is produced from ethylene via the oxidation of ethylene to ethylene oxide, followed by hydration.
- Ethoxylation Reaction
- Separation and Purification
- Final Product
Application of Triethylene Glycol (TEG)
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) is widely used across various industries due to its hygroscopic properties and versatility. Some of its key applications include:
- Natural Gas Dehydration : TEG is primarily used as a desiccant to remove water vapor from natural gas. This process is essential to prevent hydrate formation and pipeline corrosion, ensuring the efficient transportation of natural gas.
- Air Conditioning and Dehumidification : In air conditioning systems and industrial dehumidifiers, TEG is used to absorb moisture from the air, improving air quality and preventing condensation.
- Plasticizer Production : TEG is used as a raw material in the production of plasticizers, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility and durability.
- Antifreeze and Coolants : TEG is sometimes used in antifreeze formulations and coolants, where it helps lower the freezing point of the fluid and provides better temperature control.
- Hydraulic Fluids and Lubricants : Due to its stability and low volatility, TEG is used in hydraulic fluids and lubricants in various industrial applications.
- Ink and Dye Solutions : TEG serves as a solvent in the production of inks, dyes, and other colorant solutions, improving their viscosity and flow properties.
- Chemical Intermediates : TEG is also used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds, including resins, solvents, and other glycols.
- Textile and Leather Processing : In the textile and leather industries, TEG is used in finishing processes to improve the texture and moisture resistance of fabrics and leather goods.
- Fogging Agents : TEG is used in theatrical fog machines and in pest control foggers, as it can produce a dense, safe, and effective fog when vaporized.

Packing
- Bulk in seagoing vessels/barges
- Bulk in flexitank cars
- Bulk in road tank cars
- Bulk in iso tank containers
- Other packaging solutions are possible by agreement.

Triethylene Glycol (TEG)
TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL (TEG)
| NO | TEST | UNIT | RESULTS | METHOD |
| 1 | Appearance | – | Colorless, Clear | ASTM D-4176, Visual |
| 2 | Tri Ethylene Glycol Purity (teg) (100- Impurities) | Wt.% Min | 99.5 | SMS-2886 |
| 3 | DEG | Wt.% Min | 0.35 | SMS-2886 |
| 4 | PEG | Wt.% Min | 0.1 | SMS-2886 |
| 5 | Water content | Wt.% Min | 0.05 | ASTM E-203 |
| 6 | Color (Pt-Co) | Max | 25 | ASTM D-1209 |
| 7 | Ash | mg/kg Max | 100 | ASTM D-482 |
| 8 | Specific Gravity @ 20/20 C | – | 1.124-1.126 | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Range (0.1013 Mpa | ||||
| 9 | Distillation Range (5% vol) | ℃ Min | 280 | ASTM D1078 |
| 10 | Distillation Range (95% vol) | ℃ Min | 295 | ASTM D1078 |



