Triethylene glycol monomethyl ether

Triethylene glycol monomethyl ether (chemical formula C₇H₁₆O₄, CAS number 112-35-6) is a high-boiling organic solvent and chemical raw material, with core applications spanning the following fields:

I. Core Industrial Applications

1. Key Component of Brake Fluid

   • Acts as the primary diluent for borate ester-type high-grade brake fluids, significantly reducing vapor lock risk by elevating the boiling point and ensuring high-temperature stability in automotive braking systems.
   • Directly used as a core raw material for brake fluids in the form of triethylene glycol monomethyl ether borate triester, combining high boiling point and non-flammability.

2. High-Performance Solvent

   • Replaces traditional solvents such as DMF and DMSO, serving as an aprotic polar solvent in organic synthesis for reactions like esterification and condensation.
   • Applied in the production of coatings, inks, and cleaners to improve fluidity and film-forming properties.

II. Emerging High-End Fields

1. New Energy and Electronic Materials

   • Used in electrolyte formulations for new energy vehicle batteries and for modifying polymer electrolytes in redox flow batteries.
   • Functions as an electronic-grade high-purity solvent in precision coating processes for semiconductor and display panel manufacturing.

2. Specialty Chemical Synthesis

   • Serves as a linker in PROTAC (Proteolysis Targeting Chimera) drug molecules.
   • Employed in the production of polyethylene glycol modifiers to enhance biocompatibility.

III. Other Industrial Uses

• Heat Transfer Fluids and Lubricants: Enhances thermal stability and lubricity in hydraulic oils and heat transfer media.

• Uranium Ore Extraction: Functions as an efficient extractant for the separation of rare metals.

⚠️ Safety and Storage

Must be stored sealed in a cool, dark place (flash point 110°C). Wear goggles and respiratory protection during handling. Prolonged exposure to air may lead to the formation of peroxides.

Market Outlook

The compound annual growth rate in the Chinese market is projected to reach 8.5% from 2025 to 2030. Demand from high-end applications (e.g., new energy batteries) is expected to exceed 35%, highlighting significant investment opportunities due to emerging production capacity gaps.