Paints & CoatingsIn Stock

Ethylene Glycol

Name: Zenco Systems Ltd - Chemical Division
Address: Industrial Area, Enterprise Road, KCB Building, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254114591982
Price range: KES

Ethylene Glycol is a versatile industrial chemical used in antifreeze, coolants, and manufacturing processes across East Africa.

Ethylene Glycol is a crucial chemical for multiple industries including automotive, textiles, paints & coatings, and pharmaceuticals.

WhatsApp Request Quote Contact Sales

+254114591982 Email Sales

Packaging

20L plastic drums, 200L plastic drums, 25kg pails

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Ethylene Glycol?

Ethylene Glycol is a crucial chemical for multiple industries including automotive, textiles, paints & coatings, and pharmaceuticals. Manufacturing plants producing polyester fibers, resin compounds, and plasticizers rely heavily on this liquid for its distinctive properties. In East Africa, industries in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania source Ethylene Glycol to support production processes that require temperature regulation, moisture control, and chemical synthesis.

Technically known as 1,2-Ethanediol and with the chemical formula C2H6O2, Ethylene Glycol is a colorless, odorless liquid. Its widespread use is mainly due to its effectiveness as an antifreeze agent and coolant. Beyond temperature regulation, it plays a vital role as a building block for polyester fibers, resins, and film-forming substances used in paints and inks. The significance of this chemical is underscored by its role in automotive coolants and cosmetic products. Zenco Systems Ltd provides reliable supply and technical support for Ethylene Glycol across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring markets, helping local industries maintain consistent manufacturing output and product quality.

Ethylene Glycol: Detailed Product Overview

Ethylene Glycol’s molecular structure consists of two hydroxyl groups attached to an ethane backbone, making it a diol with the formula C2H6O2. This configuration grants it high polarity and strong hygroscopic properties, allowing it to absorb moisture and mix readily with water and many organic solvents. This chemical behavior is critical in antifreeze applications, where Ethylene Glycol lowers the freezing point and elevates the boiling point of aqueous solutions, helping coolant fluids operate effectively under extreme temperature variations.

In manufacturing contexts, Ethylene Glycol acts as a versatile solvent and intermediate. Its ability to chemically bond during polymerization processes makes it essential for producing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester fibers and resins. These materials are widely used in textiles and packaging. Furthermore, the chemical’s compatibility with various plasticizers and film formers supports its role in paints and coatings, imparting flexibility and durability.

Ethylene Glycol’s physical properties—such as being a colorless, transparent liquid with low volatility—aid in safe handling and storage, though precautions are necessary due to its toxicity if ingested or inhaled. Its high boiling point near 197°C and freezing point below -12°C determine handling, transport, and application conditions across industries. Zenco Systems Ltd ensures supply of Ethylene Glycol meeting industry specifications, tailored for East Africa’s climatic and operational contexts. Customers benefit from detailed product data, storage guidelines, and compliance certifications to support industrial processes involving this chemical.

Applications and Uses of Ethylene Glycol

Automotive Antifreeze and Coolants

Ethylene Glycol is primarily used in automotive antifreeze and coolant formulations to prevent engine overheating and freezing. By mixing with water, it effectively lowers the freezing point and raises the boiling point of the coolant, safeguarding engines under extreme temperature conditions encountered in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Typical concentrations in coolant blends range from 30% to 60%, balancing thermal stability and corrosion inhibition. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Ethylene Glycol grades optimized for local automotive industry requirements, helping extend engine life and reliability.

Polyester Fiber Production

In the textile industry, Ethylene Glycol serves as a key raw material for manufacturing polyester fibers through a polycondensation reaction with terephthalic acid. This process forms polyethylene terephthalate (PET), widely used in clothing and industrial fabrics. The high purity of Ethylene Glycol affects polymer quality, influencing fiber strength and dyeability. Manufacturers in East Africa depend on consistent supply and technical data to maintain production standards.

Resin Manufacturing

Ethylene Glycol functions as a building block in producing diverse resin types, including alkyd and unsaturated polyester resins. These resins are common in coatings, adhesives, and plastics. The glycol's chemical reactivity facilitates cross-linking reactions that determine the resin’s hardness, flexibility, and chemical resistance. Controlled dosing and purity are vital to achieving desired resin properties, which Zenco Systems Ltd supports through careful product sourcing.

Paints, Coatings, and Film Agents

Ethylene Glycol is used in paints and coatings as a solvent and film-forming agent, improving flow properties and durability. Its miscibility with other solvents allows formulation flexibility, enhancing drying time and surface adhesion. In the regional paint industry, Ethylene Glycol helps achieve stable emulsions and improved resistance to environmental degradation.

Plasticizers in Manufacturing

As a precursor to plasticizers, Ethylene Glycol modifies polymers' flexibility and toughness. It is employed in producing materials like PVC and other flexible plastics common in packaging and industrial applications. Using Ethylene Glycol-derived plasticizers improves product endurance and performance under mechanical stress.

Cosmetic Industry Raw Material

Ethylene Glycol’s moisture-retaining properties make it useful in cosmetic formulations as a humectant or solvent. It helps maintain product texture and shelf life in moisturizers, lotions, and other personal care products. Cosmetics manufacturers in East Africa source Ethylene Glycol for inclusion in stable and effective formulations.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Paints & Coatings range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Thermal Stability for Engine Protection

Ethylene Glycol significantly enhances coolant formulations because it provides low freezing and high boiling points, essential for protecting automobile and industrial engines from temperature extremes. This results in reduced engine wear and longer service intervals, ultimately lowering maintenance costs and preventing costly failures.

Chemical Versatility in Manufacturing

Its ability to act both as a solvent and reactive intermediate enables Ethylene Glycol to serve multiple industrial roles—from polymer synthesis to coatings. This versatility allows industries to streamline procurement by relying on one chemical for various applications, optimizing inventory and reducing complexity.

Moisture Control and Solubility

Ethylene Glycol’s strong hygroscopic nature permits it to control moisture content in coatings and cosmetics. Its miscibility with water and organic solvents improves formulation consistency and product stability, which is critical in climates with variable humidity such as East African regions.

Reliable Regional Supply Chain

Through Zenco Systems Ltd, customers across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries access consistent, compliant Ethylene Glycol supplies. This local availability reduces lead times and logistics challenges, supporting uninterrupted operations and competitive pricing.

Packaging Information

Ethylene Glycol is commercially supplied in various packaging formats suited to industrial and commercial users in East Africa. Typical packaging includes 20L and 200L plastic drums, along with 25kg pails for smaller scale or precise dosing needs. For larger operations, bulk deliveries can be arranged considering logistics capabilities. All packaging is designed to ensure chemical integrity during storage and transport, compatible with standard handling equipment commonly found in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania industries.

Standard formats: 20L plastic drums, 200L plastic drums, 25kg pails

Storage and Handling

Store Ethylene Glycol in tightly sealed containers placed in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from heat sources or open flames. Plastic drums and pails commonly used for packaging must be compatible with glycol and sealed to prevent contamination or moisture ingress. Avoid freezing as it can cause container rupture. Typical shelf life under proper storage conditions extends to 12 months or more but verify with the supplier for exact expiry dates. During handling, avoid direct skin contact and inhalation by wearing gloves and masks, and use spill containment measures to prevent environmental release.

Safety Information

Ethylene Glycol is toxic if ingested and can cause serious health effects, including kidney and nervous system damage. Handling requires appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection in confined areas. Avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors. In case of exposure, seek immediate medical attention. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed hazardous handling, storage, disposal, and emergency response procedures. Disposal must comply with local hazardous waste regulations to prevent environmental contamination.

Technical Specifications

pH5.5 - 7.0 (aqueous solution)

GradeConfirm with supplier

PurityConfirm with supplier

Density1.11 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)

FormulaC2H6O2

Packaging20L plastic drums, 200L plastic drums, 25kg pails

AppearanceColorless transparent liquid

CAS Number107-21-1

SolubilityMiscible with water and many organic solvents

Chemical NameEthylene Glycol

Storage ConditionsCool, dry, well-ventilated, away from heat sources

Applications

Automotive antifreeze
Polyester fiber production
Resin manufacturing
Paints and coatings
Plasticizer production
Cosmetic raw material

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

pH5.5 - 7.0 (aqueous solution)

GradeConfirm with supplier

PurityConfirm with supplier

Density1.11 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)

FormulaC2H6O2

Packaging20L plastic drums, 200L plastic drums, 25kg pails

AppearanceColorless transparent liquid

CAS Number107-21-1

SolubilityMiscible with water and many organic solvents

Chemical NameEthylene Glycol

Storage ConditionsCool, dry, well-ventilated, away from heat sources

Product Features

- Colorless transparent liquid
- High boiling point (~197°C)
- Low freezing point (-12°C)
- Miscible with water and organic solvents
- Hygroscopic moisture absorption
- Reactive diol functional groups

Industries Served

- Automotive
- Textile and polyester manufacturing
- Paints and coatings
- Plastic and polymer production
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetics
- Industrial manufacturing

Product Overview

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Frequently Asked Questions About Ethylene Glycol

What is Ethylene Glycol used for in automotive industries?

It serves as a key ingredient in antifreeze and engine coolant formulations, helping to prevent freezing and overheating by lowering freezing points and elevating boiling points of coolant fluids.

Can I buy Ethylene Glycol in bulk quantities for industrial use?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Ethylene Glycol in bulk, including 200L drums and larger shipments, suitable for industrial-scale applications in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Is Ethylene Glycol safe to handle, and what precautions should I take?

Ethylene Glycol is toxic if ingested and can irritate skin and eyes. Use protective gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation during handling. Always refer to the SDS for comprehensive safety details.

Do you supply Ethylene Glycol outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd provides Ethylene Glycol to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other East African countries, ensuring timely deliveries and compliant logistics support.

What purity levels of Ethylene Glycol are available?

Purity levels vary depending on application needs. Confirm exact purity with Zenco Systems Ltd at order time, as certificates of analysis can be provided.

How should Ethylene Glycol be stored to maintain quality?

Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place away from heat or direct sunlight. Avoid freezing conditions and contamination to ensure long shelf life.

Is Ethylene Glycol used in cosmetics safe for topical products?

Ethylene Glycol is used as a solvent and humectant in cosmetics under controlled conditions and purity. Always ensure the grade supplied meets cosmetic industry standards.

Can Ethylene Glycol be mixed with other solvents?

Yes, it is miscible with water and many organic solvents, making it valuable for coatings, inks, and polymer applications requiring solvent compatibility.

What packaging options are available for small-scale users?

Smaller packaging such as 20L drums and 25kg pails are available, convenient for laboratory or small manufacturing batch use.