Where It Comes From
Made for use as a solvent and electrolyte co‑solvent in electronics, lithium‑battery manufacturing, adhesives/coatings, and chemical synthesis; it can be released during production, use, or spills. [1][2]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors at work or during hobby use; skin contact with liquid; less often from indoor air after use or from air/water near facilities or spills. [1][3]
Why It Matters
Short‑term: headache, dizziness, nausea, and irritation. Longer‑term: EPA cites concerns for fertility and developmental effects in animals for glymes; some glycol ethers affect blood and organs. [1][2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Workers in labs, electronics/battery manufacturing or repair, painting/solvent use; pregnant people or those trying to conceive. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose safer alternatives; use ventilation or fume hoods; avoid skin contact—wear chemical‑resistant gloves and eye protection; keep from flames; follow SDS and workplace controls; store sealed, dispose properly. [1][2]
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (Monoglyme), CAS 110-71-4.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Significant New Use Rules; Glymes. Federal Register, 80 FR 62470 (Oct 16, 2015).
- [3]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Glycol Ethers. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.