Buying Guide: Ethylene Glycol (MEG)
What is Ethylene Glycol?
Ethylene glycol (also known as monoethylene glycol or MEG) is a clear, colorless, odorless, and slightly viscous liquid.
It has the chemical formula C₂H₆O₂ and a molecular weight of 62.07 g/mol.
It is one of the most common glycols used in various industries.
Ethylene glycol is mainly used as a raw material in the production of polyester fibers and PET resin, and also as an antifreeze and coolant.
Technical Data Table
| Property |
Typical Value / Range |
| Chemical Name / CAS |
Ethylene Glycol / 107-21-1 |
| Appearance |
Colorless, odorless, viscous liquid |
| Purity |
99% (industrial grade) – 99.9% (high purity grade) |
| Density (20–25°C) |
1.113–1.114 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point |
195–198°C |
| Melting Point |
-12.9 to -13°C |
| Solubility |
Fully miscible with water |
| Flash Point |
111°C (Closed Cup) |
| Storage Temperature |
2–8°C (dry, sealed environment) |
What Is It Used For?
-
Polyester and PET Production
Ethylene glycol is one of the key raw materials used in making polyester fibers and PET plastic bottles. It reacts with terephthalic acid to produce polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used in textiles, films, and beverage containers.
-
Antifreeze and Coolant
It is widely used in automobile cooling systems, aircraft de-icing fluids, and HVAC systems because of its ability to lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point of water.
-
Industrial Solvents and Chemical Intermediates
It is used in the production of resins, surfactants, and plasticizers. It also serves as a solvent in paints, inks, and cleaning products.
Advantages of Ethylene Glycol
-
Excellent Thermal Stability: Can operate effectively in both high and low temperatures.
-
Highly Miscible with Water: Ensures uniform blending for coolant or industrial formulations.
-
Large Global Demand: Constant need in the polyester and packaging industry ensures supply stability.
-
Versatile Applications: Useful in multiple industries — automotive, textile, packaging, and chemicals.
-
Strong Export Base: China has extensive production capacity, ensuring competitive prices.
Packaging and Storage
| Packaging Type |
Description |
| Bulk Shipments |
Delivered in ISO tanks, tank trucks, or sea bulk tankers for large volumes. |
| Drums / IBCs |
200L steel drums or 1000L intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for smaller quantities. |
| Storage Conditions |
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep container tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption. |
| Handling Precautions |
Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents. Wear gloves and eye protection during handling. |
Ethylene glycol is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), so it must be stored in tightly sealed containers to maintain purity.
Price Overview
The price of ethylene glycol changes with crude oil prices, feedstock ethylene cost, and polyester market demand.
Typical price references:
| Region |
Approximate Price Range |
| China Domestic |
¥3,800–¥4,200 per ton (industrial-grade) |
| Export Price |
USD $500–$650 per ton (FOB basis) |
Prices vary by purity, packaging, and delivery terms. Always confirm with suppliers for current market prices.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers in China
China is one of the largest producers and exporters of ethylene glycol in the world. The main producers and exporters include:
-
Sinopec Chemical
-
PetroChina Company Limited
-
Wanhua Chemical Group
-
Suneco Chemical Co., Ltd.
-
Sanjiang Fine Chemical Co., Ltd.
These large-scale factories operate integrated petrochemical plants producing ethylene, ethylene oxide, and downstream MEG. Besides these, many medium-sized chemical companies and trading firms also export MEG worldwide.
When sourcing from China, always check:
-
Company license and export registration.
-
Product COA (Certificate of Analysis) and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).
-
Quality certifications such as ISO 9001 or REACH compliance.
-
Export experience and references from international clients.
Buying Checklist
-
Define Product Grade: Confirm whether you need industrial-grade or high-purity grade MEG.
-
Request Technical Documents: Always ask for COA and MSDS from suppliers.
-
Confirm Packaging: Choose between ISO tank, IBC, or drum packaging based on your logistics.
-
Discuss Delivery Terms: Clarify shipping terms (FOB, CIF, DDP) and expected lead time.
-
Check Supplier Reputation: Verify reviews, trade history, and export capability.
-
Negotiate Payment Terms: For large orders, consider flexible payment structures such as L/C or TT.
-
Sample Testing: Request small samples before bulk order to test purity and performance.
Final Advice
Ethylene glycol is a basic but essential chemical for many industries. Whether you are a polyester manufacturer, a chemical distributor, or an automotive coolant blender, it’s vital to buy from reliable and certified Chinese factories. Stable supply, consistent quality, and competitive price are key when choosing a supplier.
For small and medium buyers, purchasing from established exporters or trading companies can reduce logistics risk. For long-term users or large plants, establishing a direct partnership with major Chinese manufacturers ensures steady supply and better pricing.
By comparing specifications, checking purity levels, and confirming certifications, you can confidently buy ethylene glycol that fits your production or trading needs.
