C6H14O4 is the molecular formula of triethylene glycol, a well-known industrial chemical with CAS number 112-27-6. Because the name is not as familiar as its formula, chemists and buyers often ask whether this compound is an alcohol. The answer is yes: triethylene glycol is classified as a primary alcohol, a diol and a poly(ethylene glycol). This article explains the classification, the properties that follow from it, and the practical implications for storage and industrial use.
What Is C6H14O4 Called?
C6H14O4 is triethylene glycol, also known as TEG, triglycol or trigen. It is a colorless, odorless, hygroscopic and viscous liquid that is well known for its ability to absorb moisture and to dehumidify gas streams. The molecule consists of two ethylene glycol units linked by an ether oxygen, with a hydroxyl group at each end, which is why it behaves simultaneously as a glycol ether and as an alcohol.
Is C6H14O4 an Alcohol?
Yes. Triethylene glycol carries two terminal hydroxyl groups, so it is formally a diol, and because those hydroxyl groups are attached to primary carbon atoms it is also a primary alcohol. In systematic terms it belongs to the poly(ethylene glycol) family and is often described as a dihydroxy-terminated glycol ether. The presence of two reactive hydroxyl groups allows it to undergo the typical alcohol reactions, including esterification, etherification and urethane formation, and this chemistry is the basis of its role as a plasticizer and chemical intermediate.
Key Physical and Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
| Chemical formula | C6H14O4 |
| CAS number | 112-27-6 |
| Appearance | Colorless, viscous liquid |
| Odor | Practically odorless |
| Boiling point | About 285-295 °C |
| Solubility | Miscible with water and ethanol; slightly soluble in ether |
| Hygroscopicity | Strong |
Because of its low volatility and high boiling range, triethylene glycol remains liquid over a wide temperature window, which makes it convenient for processes that need a stable, non-volatile medium.
Main Industrial Applications
Gas dehydration: TEG is the standard absorbent for drying natural gas and other process streams by removing water vapor.
Plasticizers: its esters and derivatives improve the flexibility and workability of plastics and cellulose-based materials.
Lubricants and functional fluids: used as a base or additive where moderate viscosity and low volatility are required.
Solvent and carrier: dissolves resins, dyes and active ingredients in coatings, inks and specialty formulations.
Disinfection and air treatment: formulations based on triethylene glycol are used in some air-sanitizing and dehumidifying applications.
Recommended Storage Conditions
Triethylene glycol should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 15 and 25 °C, and the temperature should not exceed 30 °C for extended periods. Containers must be kept tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination, because the product is strongly hygroscopic. Storage areas should be cool, dry and well ventilated, away from strong oxidizers, acids and direct sunlight. Under these conditions the product retains its quality and specification for a long shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is C6H14O4 an alcohol?
Yes. C6H14O4 is triethylene glycol, which carries two primary hydroxyl groups and is formally a diol and a primary alcohol.
Why is triethylene glycol hygroscopic?
Its ether and hydroxyl oxygen atoms form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, so the liquid readily absorbs moisture from the air and from gas streams.
Is triethylene glycol miscible with water?
Yes, triethylene glycol is fully miscible with water and with ethanol, while it is only slightly soluble in diethyl ether and essentially insoluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons.
What is triethylene glycol used for?
It is mainly used for natural gas dehydration, as a plasticizer, as a solvent and carrier in coatings and cleaners, and as a component of lubricants and functional fluids.
What are the storage conditions for triethylene glycol?
Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 °C, keep below 30 °C, seal containers tightly, and keep the area dry and away from oxidizers and acids.
Is triethylene glycol toxic?
Triethylene glycol has low acute toxicity and low volatility at room temperature, so the main handling risks are limited. Nevertheless, ingestion should be avoided and prolonged skin contact should be prevented with suitable gloves.