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Ethylene Glycol (CAS No.: 406-78-0) is a colourless, odourless, viscous liquid with a sweet taste. It is an important industrial chemical and intermediate used in various applications. Ethylene Glycol is commonly used in antifreeze formulations and as a raw material for the production of polyester fibres, plasticizers, and solvents.
The safety of ethylene glycol has been subject to much debate in recent years. Studies have raised concerns about its potential toxicity when released into the environment. Despite these concerns, the chemical is still widely used in many industries.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has recently undertaken a risk assessment of ethylene glycol and has concluded that the chemical is safe for use in food and drinks. The EFSA's assessment concluded that the maximum tolerable daily intake of ethylene glycol is 1.3 mg/kg body weight per day. This means that a person weighing 70 kg could safely consume up to 91 mg of ethylene glycol per day without any adverse effects.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for ethylene glycol in drinking water of 0.2 mg/L. This is the maximum concentration of the chemical that is considered safe for human consumption.
In recent years, researchers have developed new methods for detecting ethylene glycol in the environment. These methods include the use of ion chromatography, gas chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These techniques allow scientists to detect the presence of ethylene glycol in soil, water, and air samples.
The global market for ethylene glycol is expected to grow steadily in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for polyester fibres, plasticizers, and solvents in various industries. In addition, the chemical is used as a raw material in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, which are used for packaging a variety of beverages and food products.
Overall, ethylene glycol (CAS No.: 406-78-0) continues to be an important industrial chemical and intermediate used in various applications. Although concerns have been raised about its potential toxicity, the chemical has been shown to be safe for use in food and drinks. The global market for ethylene glycol is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for polyester fibres, plasticizers, and solvents in various industries.