How to safely store triethylene glycol: a chemical industry expert's detailed guide

Triethylene glycol (Glycerol), as a common chemical raw material, is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food and other industrial fields. Due to its good solubility and hygroscopicity, the storage of triethylene glycol must be careful to ensure that its quality is not affected and to avoid safety hazards. How to safely store triethylene glycol? This article will be from the storage environment, packaging requirements, precautions, etc., a detailed analysis of how to achieve safe storage of triethylene glycol.

1. storage environment requirements

Triethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, sweet viscous liquid, stable at room temperature, but there are certain requirements for the environment. When storing triethylene glycol, first ensure that the storage environment is dry, cool and well ventilated. Avoid exposing triethylene glycol to high temperature or excessive humidity, because high temperature will promote the decomposition of triethylene glycol or cause damage to the container; excessive humidity may increase its hygroscopicity and affect product quality.

When storing TEG safely, the ideal temperature range should be maintained between 15°C and 25°C. Especially in summer or high temperature season, special attention should be paid to temperature control. If possible, select a storage location with temperature control facilities to reduce the impact of high temperatures on the TEG.

2. appropriate storage containers

The container in which the triethylene glycol is stored also plays a vital role. Because triethylene glycol is hygroscopic and corrosive, it is not suitable for storage in metal containers, especially iron containers and some non-corrosion resistant alloys. It is generally recommend to use a closed plastic bucket or glass container to ensure that the surface of the container is smooth and avoid contamination due to scratches or damage.

Containers should be kept sealed to avoid air ingress and minimize contact with moisture. Ensure that there is a clear label on the container, indicating the product name, production batch number, storage date and expiration date and other information to facilitate management and traceability.

3. avoid contact with incompatible substances

As a chemical, triethylene glycol has certain chemical activity, so it is necessary to avoid contact with certain substances during storage to avoid dangerous reactions. For example, when triethylene glycol comes into contact with chemicals such as strong oxidants, strong acids or strong bases, chemical reactions may occur, resulting in safety hazards. Therefore, storage of TEG should be separated from these incompatible substances to ensure that its storage area is not mixed with other hazardous chemicals.

Triethylene glycol is easy to absorb moisture, so avoid contact with water or moisture-heavy substances, so as to avoid affecting its quality and stability.

4. regular inspection and maintenance

Although TEG itself is relatively stable, long-term storage requires periodic inspection. Storage environment, container sealing, temperature and humidity and other factors may affect the quality of triethylene glycol. Regularly check the container for leakage, breakage or aging to ensure that no contaminants enter. The temperature and humidity of the storage environment should also be tested regularly to ensure that it is always within the appropriate range.

The cleanliness of the storage area is also very important. The storage area shall be kept clean and tidy to avoid contamination of TEG by harmful substances or impurities.

5. emergency plan and safety measures

Even in the safe storage of TEG, the corresponding emergency plan and safety measures should be prepared. In case of leakage or other accidents, emergency measures shall be taken in time. The place where TEG is stored should be equipped with fire fighting facilities, such as fire extinguishers, fire extinguishers and other equipment, and ensure that relevant staff are familiar with safe operation procedures.

Storage should be kept away from sources of fire, power and high temperature areas to ensure that TEG is not susceptible to external stimuli that could cause fire or other hazards.

6. summary

To sum up, how to safely store TEG needs to consider many factors, including storage environment, container selection, isolation from other substances, regular inspection and emergency plan, etc. Only by taking these factors into account can we ensure that triethylene glycol is not damaged during storage and its safety and effectiveness can be guaranteed to the greatest extent.