What Is Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (EGMME)?
- EGMME (CAS 109-86-4) is classified Repr. 1B (H360D) under EU CLP / GHS - may damage the unborn child.
- Subject to EU REACH Annex XVII restriction: concentrations ≥0.5% restricted in consumer products. B2B industrial supply is fully permitted with appropriate risk management.
- OEL: EU IOELV 1 ppm TWA; ACGIH TLV 0.1 ppm. GHS-compliant SDS and REACH compliance documentation provided with every shipment.
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (EGMME, CAS 109-86-4) - also known as 2-Methoxyethanol or Methyl Cellosolve - is the monomethyl ether of ethylene glycol, produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with methanol. Its systematic IUPAC name reflects its molecular structure: a two-carbon chain with a methoxy group (–OCH₃) at one end and a hydroxyl group (–OH) at the other. This bifunctional structure - combining an ether linkage and a hydroxyl group in a single compact molecule (MW 76.09 g/mol) - is responsible for EGMME's exceptional solvent versatility and its unique ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar substances simultaneously.
EGMME belongs to the glycol ether E-series (ethylene glycol-based) family, which also includes EGEE (Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether), EGBE (Butyl Cellosolve), and their acetate derivatives. Within this family, EGMME is the smallest and most hydrophilic member - offering the highest water miscibility, the lowest boiling point (124–125 °C), and the fastest evaporation rate - properties that make it especially valuable in fast-drying coating formulations, semiconductor wet-process cleaning, and water-based cleaning products.
Sinolook Chemical manufactures EGMME by catalytic etherification technology with multi-stage distillation purification, consistently achieving purity ≥99.5% (standard grade) and ≥99.9% (electronic grade). ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified. Full COA, SDS, and REACH documentation are provided with every shipment to industrial buyers in Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America.
Key Solvent Performance Advantages of EGMME
Six functional properties make Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether one of the most versatile E-series glycol ether solvents in industrial use - valued by coatings formulators, electronics manufacturers, and cleaning product developers worldwide.
💧 Complete Water Miscibility & Coupling Power
EGMME is completely miscible with water in all proportions - a property shared by very few organic solvents. Combined with its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic resins, oils, and hydrophobic substances, EGMME acts as an outstanding coupling solvent: it bridges the gap between aqueous and organic phases, preventing phase separation in mixed systems. This coupling function is indispensable in waterborne coating formulations, water-based cleaning products, and printing ink systems where both water-soluble and oil-soluble components must coexist in a single clear solution.
🧪 Excellent Resin Solubility
EGMME dissolves a remarkably broad range of industrial resins and binders: nitrocellulose and cellulose esters, alkyd resins, acrylic and methacrylic resins, epoxy resins, phenolic and amino resins, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and rosin-based varnishes. This broad polymer solubility - spanning both polar and nonpolar resin types - allows formulators to use EGMME as a single primary solvent or coupling solvent across diverse coating, ink, and adhesive systems, reducing total solvent count in complex formulations.
⚖️ Moderate Evaporation Rate
With a boiling point of 124–125 °C, EGMME falls in the medium-evaporation-rate category - fast enough for acceptable drying times in industrial coating processes, yet slow enough to allow adequate flow, leveling, and film formation before the solvent is lost. This prevents surface defects (orange peel, solvent popping, blushing) associated with fast-evaporating solvents. In blended solvent systems, EGMME is combined alongside faster (ketones, esters) and slower (glycol ether butyl) solvents to engineer a targeted evaporation profile for specific coating applications.
🔬 High Solvency Power (Hansen Parameters)
EGMME's Hansen Solubility Parameters (δd ≈ 16.2, δp ≈ 9.2, δh ≈ 16.4 MPa¹/²) reflect a balanced combination of dispersive, polar, and hydrogen-bonding forces. This broad parameter coverage means EGMME dissolves a wider range of polymer binders than more narrowly selective solvents, making it an effective co-solvent or primary solvent in complex formulations. Its Log P of –0.77 confirms its high hydrophilicity, which drives both water miscibility and compatibility with polar substrates and resins.
✨ Low Surface Tension & Wetting
EGMME's relatively low surface tension (~30–31 mN/m at 20 °C) gives it excellent substrate-wetting properties. In coating formulations, this helps the coating spread uniformly over the substrate surface, reducing the risk of crawling, fisheyes, and wetting defects - particularly on low-energy polymer and metal surfaces. In cleaning applications, good wetting ensures the solvent penetrates into narrow gaps, threads, and porous surface features to dissolve and lift soil deposits effectively, including in precision electronics and precision mechanical cleaning.
🛡️ Chemical Stability & Long Shelf Life
EGMME is chemically stable under normal storage and handling conditions. Unlike diethyl ether and tetrahydrofuran, EGMME does not form explosive peroxides during storage, making it considerably safer to store in industrial quantities. It does not undergo significant decomposition, hydrolysis, or polymerization in the absence of strong oxidizing agents or extreme temperature conditions. Properly stored in sealed containers at 5–30 °C, EGMME has a shelf life of at least 24 months without significant quality degradation.
📌 EGMME vs PGMME - Choosing Between E-Series and P-Series Glycol Ethers
EGMME (CAS 109-86-4, E-series) and PGMME / Methoxypropanol (CAS 107-98-2, P-series) have similar solvent profiles but key differences. PGMME is not classified as a reproductive toxicant and is exempt from EU REACH Annex XVII consumer product restrictions - making it the preferred substitute in consumer-facing applications.
EGMME retains advantages in industrial applications requiring: stronger nitrocellulose solubility · higher water miscibility · lower molecular weight (76 vs 90 g/mol) · faster evaporation · specific resin compatibility in legacy formulations. Both EGMME and PGMME are available from Sinolook. Contact our technical team for application-specific selection guidance.
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether Uses & Applications
EGMME (CAS 109-86-4) serves as a critical solvent and coupling agent across seven major industrial sectors. Its combination of complete water miscibility, broad resin solubility, moderate evaporation rate, and low surface tension makes it one of the most versatile E-series glycol ether solvents in global industrial use.
Paints & Industrial Coatings
Coupling solvent, co-solvent, and flow-control agent in solvent-borne and waterborne industrial coatings, lacquers, and primers. Coalescing agent in waterborne acrylic and alkyd dispersions - temporarily softens latex particles during film formation for a continuous, defect-free film. Improves resin dissolution, film leveling, wetting, and substrate adhesion. Widely used in nitrocellulose lacquers, alkyd enamels, and epoxy coating systems.
Semiconductor & Electronics
High-purity solvent for photoresist stripping, wafer cleaning, PCB cleaning, and electronic component degreasing. Effectively removes photoresist films and flux residues without damaging sensitive substrates. Compatible with NMP and DMSO in photoresist strip formulations - used as a co-solvent or partial NMP substitute. Electronic grade (≥99.9%, metal ions <1 ppb by ICP-MS) available for critical semiconductor fab applications.
Industrial Cleaning & Degreasing
Active solvent in precision degreasing formulations and metal surface cleaners. Effectively dissolves flux residues, light oils, greases, waxes, and polar contaminants from metal, glass, and ceramic surfaces. Unlike purely hydrocarbon-based degreasers, EGMME-containing formulations are readily rinsed with water, leaving no hydrocarbon residue - a critical requirement for parts destined for painting, plating, or precision assembly.
Printing Inks & Graphic Arts
Primary solvent and coupling agent in gravure, flexographic, and screen printing inks for nitrocellulose, acrylic, and rosin-based ink systems. Excellent nitrocellulose solubility, good pigment-wetting properties, and acceptable evaporation rate for web-fed printing processes. Improves ink flow and substrate wetting. Also used in ink wash-up solutions to clean printing cylinders and blankets between print runs.
Agrochemical Formulations
Co-solvent in pesticide emulsifiable concentrates (EC), soluble concentrates (SL), and specialty herbicide and fungicide formulations. Improves active ingredient solubility, formulation stability, and spreading on plant surfaces. Its water miscibility and coupling ability help stabilize technically complex formulations that must combine hydrophilic and lipophilic active components in a single-phase concentrate.
Chemical Synthesis & Intermediates
Solvent for organic reactions and key starting material for synthesis of EGMME Acetate (Methyl Cellosolve Acetate, CAS 110-49-6) and other glycol ether derivatives used in electronics, coatings, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Also used as co-solvent in the synthesis and processing of specialty polymers, dyestuffs, and fine chemical intermediates requiring a polar aprotic-type solvent environment.
Technical Specifications & COA
Sinolook's Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether is manufactured by advanced catalytic etherification technology with multi-stage distillation and purification. Every production batch is tested against the quality parameters below. A full Certificate of Analysis (COA), EGMME SDS / MSDS (GHS-compliant), and Technical Data Sheet (TDS) are issued with every shipment.
EGMME (2-Methoxyethanol, CAS 109-86-4) - Quality Specifications & Typical COA
| Parameter | Specification | Typical COA Result |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid, free of suspended matter | Clear colorless liquid |
| Purity (GC), wt% | ≥99.5% | 99.6 – 99.8% |
| Water Content (Karl Fischer), wt% | ≤0.1% | 0.03 – 0.08% |
| Density (20 °C), g/cm³ | 0.964 – 0.967 | 0.965 – 0.966 |
| Boiling Point, °C | 124 – 126 °C | 124.5 – 125.5 °C |
| Refractive Index (20 °C) | 1.402 – 1.404 | 1.4025 – 1.4035 |
| Color (APHA / Pt-Co) | ≤10 | ≤5 |
| Flash Point (closed cup), °C | 38 – 42 °C | 39 – 40 °C |
| Acidity (as acetic acid), wt% | ≤0.003% | <0.001% |
| Residue on Evaporation, wt% | ≤0.005% | <0.002% |
| Chloride Content, wt% | ≤0.0005% | <0.0002% |
Electronic-Grade EGMME: Purity ≥99.9% (GC), metal ions <1 ppb per element (ICP-MS), particle count <50 particles/mL >0.2 μm. Suitable for semiconductor wafer cleaning, photoresist stripping, and PCB precision cleaning. ICP-MS analysis report provided per batch. Specify "electronic grade" when inquiring.
EGMME SDS, Safety & Regulatory Classification
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether carries important regulatory classifications that B2B buyers must understand before procurement and use. EGMME is classified as a flammable liquid (UN 1188, PG III) and as a Repr. 1B reproductive toxicant under EU CLP - two distinct hazard categories requiring separate risk management measures. EGMME SDS / MSDS are GHS-compliant and available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese - provided in advance for import compliance, REACH downstream user obligations, and regulatory review.
| Safety / Regulatory Parameter | Value / Notes |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Repr. 1B (H360D); Flam. Liq. 3 (H226); Acute Tox. 4 (H312, H332); STOT RE 2 |
| GHS Signal Word | DANGER |
| Flash Point | 39 °C (closed cup) - Flammable Liquid; store away from ignition sources; ground containers during transfer |
| Occupational Exposure Limits | EU IOELV: 1 ppm TWA / 3 ppm STEL; ACGIH TLV: 0.1 ppm TWA / 0.3 ppm STEL; US OSHA PEL: 25 ppm (skin designation) |
| PPE Required | Chemical-resistant gloves (butyl rubber / neoprene); safety goggles; local exhaust ventilation; prohibit use by pregnant workers |
| EU REACH Annex XVII | Restriction applies: ≥0.5% concentration restricted in consumer products in the EU. B2B industrial supply fully permitted with risk management measures |
| REACH / SVHC Status | ECHA registered (EC No. 203-713-7); Not on SVHC candidate list; Annex XVII restriction confirmed |
| Storage | Cool, dry, ventilated area; 5–30 °C; sealed containers; away from ignition sources and oxidizers; shelf life 24 months |
| SDS Languages Available | English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese |
| Request SDS / COA / TDS | sales@sinolookchem.com or WhatsApp +86 134 0071 5622 - issued within 12 hours |
EGMME Price, Packaging & B2B Supply
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether price depends on grade (standard ≥99.5% / electronic ≥99.9%), order volume, packaging format, and delivery terms. As a direct manufacturer with privileged access to methanol and ethylene oxide raw materials in China, Sinolook offers internationally competitive EGMME pricing. Volume discounts and fixed-price supply contracts are available. Request a customized quote - response within 12 hours.
| Order Volume | Packaging | Included Services |
|---|---|---|
| 25 – 180 kg (Trial Order) | 25 kg or 180 kg UN-approved steel drums | COA, EGMME SDS, TDS; free sample option (500 mL–1 kg) for qualified buyers |
| 180 kg – 5,000 kg (Regular Supply) | 180 kg steel drums / 1,000 kg IBC tanks | Volume discount; dedicated account manager; priority production scheduling |
| 5,000+ kg (Bulk / Long-Term) | IBC tanks / ISO Tank (16,000–20,000 kg) | Lowest per-unit EGMME price; fixed-price contract; 24/7 technical support |
📦 MOQ
25 kg trial orders. Free samples: 500 mL–1 kg with full COA for qualified B2B buyers. Standard and electronic grade available.
🚢 Delivery Terms
FOB, CIF, DAP, DDP. Ex-Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao, Guangzhou. Full IMDG / ADR DG documentation for UN 1188.
⏱ Lead Time
EGMME price quote within 12 hours. In-stock: 3–5 working days. Standard production: 7–15 business days. Shelf life 24 months.
💳 Payment Terms
T/T 30% advance, 70% vs B/L. L/C at sight for large orders. Fixed-price contracts for long-term bulk supply.
- ✓ ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 certified - every batch tested for GC purity, Karl Fischer, density, color (APHA), acidity, and chloride
- ✓ Full export documentation: COA, EGMME SDS/MSDS, TDS, Certificate of Origin, DG declaration, packing list, bill of lading
- ✓ EU REACH compliance letter, Annex XVII restriction status confirmation, and downstream user documentation provided
- ✓ Electronic-grade COA with ICP-MS metal ion analysis available for semiconductor and precision electronics buyers
- ✓ 15+ years exporting UN 1188 classified flammable liquids to 50+ countries - no shipment delays due to DG non-compliance
- ✓ Technical support: coatings formulation, solvent blend design, EGMME vs PGMME selection, regulatory compliance guidance
Frequently Asked Questions About EGMME
Technical and commercial questions about Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (CAS 109-86-4) from B2B buyers in coatings, electronics, cleaning, and agrochemical industries.
What is Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (EGMME) and what is it used for?
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (EGMME, CAS 109-86-4) - also known as 2-Methoxyethanol or Methyl Cellosolve - is a versatile glycol ether solvent produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with methanol. It functions as a coupling solvent, co-solvent, coalescing agent, and cleaning solvent across multiple industrial sectors. Primary EGMME uses include: paints and coatings (coupling solvent, flow-control agent, coalescing agent in waterborne systems); semiconductor and PCB cleaning (photoresist stripping, wafer cleaning - electronic grade); industrial degreasers and precision cleaning; gravure and flexographic printing inks; agrochemical EC/SL formulations; and as an intermediate for EGMME Acetate (Methyl Cellosolve Acetate) synthesis.
Is EGMME the same as Methyl Cellosolve or 2-Methoxyethanol?
Yes - they are all the same compound. Methyl Cellosolve is the historic Union Carbide trade name; 2-Methoxyethanol is the IUPAC systematic name; EGMME (Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether) is the standard industry abbreviation. All refer to CAS 109-86-4, EINECS 203-713-7. In modern trade and regulatory documentation, EGMME and 2-Methoxyethanol are the preferred designations. Other synonyms include Methyl Glycol, Glycol Monomethyl Ether, and Methyl Oxitol.
What is the difference between EGMME and PGMME (Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether)?
EGMME (CAS 109-86-4) is ethylene glycol-based (E-series) while PGMME / PM Solvent (CAS 107-98-2) is propylene glycol-based (P-series). The critical regulatory difference: PGMME is not classified as a reproductive toxicant and is exempt from EU REACH Annex XVII consumer product restrictions - making it the dominant substitute in consumer and semi-consumer applications. EGMME retains competitive advantages in industrial applications requiring stronger nitrocellulose solubility, higher water miscibility, lower molecular weight (76 vs 90 g/mol), and specific legacy resin compatibility. Both products are available from Sinolook - contact our technical team for selection guidance specific to your application.
What are the EU REACH restrictions for EGMME and how does Sinolook support compliance?
EGMME (CAS 109-86-4) is subject to EU REACH Annex XVII Entry 30: concentrations ≥0.5% are restricted in consumer products placed on the EU market. B2B industrial supply is fully permitted with appropriate risk management measures including OEL compliance, SDS distribution, and exposure assessment. EGMME is ECHA-registered (EC 203-713-7) and is not on the SVHC candidate list. Sinolook provides: REACH compliance letters, Annex XVII restriction status confirmations, downstream user SDS in required EU languages, and eSDS for safety assessment. Contact our regulatory team for documentation specific to your import and use scenario.
Is electronic-grade EGMME available for semiconductor applications?
Yes. Sinolook supplies electronic-grade Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether with purity ≥99.9% (GC), metal ions <1 ppb per element (ICP-MS analysis), and particle count <50 particles/mL >0.2 μm. This grade is suitable for semiconductor photoresist stripping, wafer wet-process cleaning, PCB precision cleaning, and other applications where trace metal contamination would compromise device or circuit performance. ICP-MS analysis reports are provided with each electronic-grade batch. Contact our sales team for specifications, pricing, and qualification documentation.
What is the EGMME CAS number and where can I get the SDS?
The EGMME CAS number is 109-86-4 (EINECS: 203-713-7). Sinolook provides GHS-compliant Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether SDS / MSDS in English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese - available before order confirmation for compliance review, import pre-clearance, and regulatory audits. We also supply COA (Certificate of Analysis), TDS (Technical Data Sheet), Certificate of Origin, REACH compliance documentation, and UN transport DG declaration with every shipment. Contact sales@sinolookchem.com or WhatsApp +86 134 0071 5622 to request documentation.
How do I get an EGMME price quote or free sample?
Free samples (500 mL – 1 kg) with full COA are available for qualified B2B buyers. Both standard grade (≥99.5%) and electronic grade (≥99.9%) samples are available.
- Step 1: Contact us with your requirements - grade, quantity, packaging, delivery terms (FOB/CIF/DDP), and destination country.
- Step 2: Receive a customized EGMME price quote within 12 hours, including lead time, packaging options, and documentation list.
- Step 3: Request free samples (500 mL–1 kg) with full COA for application testing and quality qualification before bulk order.
- Step 4: Confirm your order - Sinolook handles production scheduling, UN-approved packaging, full DG documentation, and freight booking end-to-end.
- Step 5: Receive your EGMME shipment on time with complete traceability documentation. Technical support available for formulation and regulatory assistance.
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