Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG), commonly referred to as glycol or ethylene glycol (CAS 107-21-1), is widely used in industrial water treatment systems as an antifreeze and heat-transfer additive. Its primary function is to lower the freezing point of water, allowing pipelines, cooling systems, HVAC loops, and industrial process fluids to operate safely in low-temperature environments.
What Is MEG (Mono Ethylene Glycol)?
MEG is a dihydric alcohol with two hydroxyl groups:
HO−CH2−CH2−OHHO{-}CH_2{-}CH_2{-}OHHO−CH2−CH2−OH
These hydroxyl groups allow MEG to mix completely with water while significantly altering water's physical behavior.
| Chemical Name | Mono Ethylene Glycol |
| CAS Number | 107-21-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₆O₂ |
| Appearance | Clear colorless liquid |
| Water Solubility | Completely miscible |
| Boiling Point | ~197°C |
| Main Industrial Function | Antifreeze & heat transfer fluid |
How MEG glycol Prevents Freezing
Freezing Point Depression Principle
Hydrogen Bonding: Hydroxyl groups in MEG glycol form strong bonds with water molecules.
Inhibited Crystallization: These bonds hinder water molecules from arranging into solid ice lattice as temperature falls.
Lowered Freezing Point: Water fails to solidify easily, keeping liquid state below 0°C.
Advantages of MEG Application in Water Treatment
Adjustable Anti-freezing Performance: Freezing point declines with rising MEG mono ethylene glycol concentration. 25% mass ratio MEG solution reduces freezing point to -12°C.
Pipe Burst Prevention: Stops ice generation and volume expansion, avoiding pipeline damage in circulating cooling and HVAC systems.
Microbial Inhibition: 20%-25% concentration restrains bacterial reproduction, cutting corrosive acidic substance production.
Usage Notes
MEG glycol features high toxicity, so it is only applicable to sealed industrial circulating systems. Non-toxic propylene glycol serves as the substitute for drinking water and food processing facilities.
Common Water Treatment Applications of MEG glycol
1. HVAC Systems
Mono ethylene glycol safeguards chilled water and heating circulation pipelines against freezing in winter. It is widely adopted in HVAC facilities of commercial buildings, district cooling stations, data centers and industrial sites.
2.Industrial Cooling Systems
Industrial cooling circuits add MEG chemical to avoid freeze damage during equipment downtime or outdoor placement. It serves cooling systems in chemical, petrochemical, food processing and pharmaceutical industries.
3. Oil & Gas Water Treatment
Monoethylene Glycol is injected into oil and gas production pipelines to stop ice and gas hydrate buildup, thus eliminating pipeline clogging risks. Low temperature and high pressure enable water and hydrocarbons to form solid hydrates, while MEG adjusts thermodynamic balance and effectively restrains such substance generation.
4. Fire Protection Systems
Glycol mixed water solution containing MEG is applied to fire sprinkler pipelines in cold areas, which effectively prevents pipes from freezing and ensures normal fire fighting functions.
CAS 107-21-1 MEG Raw Material Supplier in China
MEG vs Propylene Glycol in Water Treatment
Both MEG and propylene glycol (PG) are used in freeze protection systems.
| MEG | Propylene Glycol | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat transfer efficiency | Better | Slightly lower |
| Viscosity | Lower | Higher |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Toxicity | Higher | Lower |
| Industrial use | Extensive | Food-sensitive systems |
In industrial systems, monoethylene glycol (MEG; CAS 107-21-1) is frequently favored for its exceptional thermal properties and low viscosity.
Conclusion
MEG (Monoethylene Glycol) prevents freezing in water treatment systems by disrupting hydrogen bonds and lowering the freezing point of water.
Its excellent water miscibility, thermal stability, low-temperature fluidity, and efficient heat transfer properties make it one of the world's most important industrial antifreeze agents.
About us
As a leading manufacturer and exporter of chemical solvent, TIANJIN GNEE BIOTECH CO., LTD. provides high-quality industrial chemicals. We supply to customers across the chemical, pharmaceutical, and materials industries, ensuring consistent quality, reliable logistics, and professional technical support.
Our chemical products hold international certifications (REACH, ISO, FMQS, HALAL) for global quality recognitio. We have warehouses in coreports such as Qingdao, Tianiin, and Shanghai, with a 15-day express delivery service.
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Gneebio Product Packaging
| Packaging Type | Net Weight |
|---|---|
| Steel Drum | 250 kg |
| IBC Tank | 1250 kg |
| ISO Tank | Bulk shipment |
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