NFPA Label Key
Material Safety Data Sheet
(University of Utah)
NFPA Label Key
Material Safety Data Sheet
(University of Utah)
ToxFAQs
CAS# 107-21-1, 57-55-6
September 1997
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NFPA Label Key
Material Safety Data Sheet
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NFPA Label Key
Material Safety Data Sheet
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HIGHLIGHTS: Ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are clear liquids that are used in antifreeze and deicing solutions. Exposure to large amounts of ethylene glycol can damage the kidneys, heart, and nervous system. Both compounds can change your body chemistry by increasing the amount of acid. Ethylene glycol has been found in at least 34, and propylene glycol in at least 5, of the 1,416 National Priorities List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). |
What are ethylene glycol and propylene glycol?
Both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are clear, colorless, slightly syrupy liquids at room temperature. Either compound may exist in air in the vapor form, although propylene glycol must be heated or briskly shaken to produce a vapor. Ethylene glycol is odorless but has a sweet taste. Propylene glycol is practically odorless and tasteless.
Both compounds are used to make antifreeze and de-icing solutions for cars, airplanes, and boats; to make polyester compounds; and as solvents in the paint and plastics industries. Ethylene glycol is also an ingredient in photographic developing solutions, hydraulic brake fluids and in inks used in stamp pads, ballpoint pens, and print shops.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as an additive that is "generally recognized as safe" for use in food. It is used to absorb extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics, or food products. It is a solvent for food colors and flavors.
Propylene glycol is also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire-fighting training and in theatrical productions.
What happens to ethylene glycol and propylene glycol when they enter the environment?
How might I be exposed to ethylene glycol and propylene glycol?
How can ethylene glycol and propylene glycol affect my health?
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how toxic substances might harm people or to treat those who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Eating or drinking very large amounts of ethylene glycol can result in death, while large amounts can result in nausea, convulsions, slurred speech, disorientation, and heart and kidney problems. In addition, ethylene glycol affects the body's chemistry by increasing the amount of acid, resulting in metabolic problems.
Female animals that ate large amounts of ethylene glycol had babies with birth defects, while male animals had reduced sperm counts. However, these effects were seen at very high levels and would not be expected in people exposed to lower levels at hazardous waste sites.
Similar to ethylene glycol, propylene glycol increases the amount of acid in the body. However, larger amounts of propylene glycol are needed to cause this effect.
How likely are ethylene and propylene glycol to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the EPA have not classified ethylene glycol and propylene glycol for carcinogenicity. Studies with people who used ethylene glycol did not show carcinogenic effects. Animal studies also have not shown these chemicals to be carcinogens.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been exposed to ethylene or propylene glycol?
Tests are available to determine if you have been exposed to ethylene glycol. These tests are only used on people who are showing symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning (but they could be used in other situations). The tests are most often used on people who have intentionally consumed, or who suspect they have consumed, large amounts of ethylene glycol.
Propylene glycol is generally considered to be a safe chemical, and is not routinely tested for, unless specific exposure, such as to a medicine or cosmetic, can be linked with symptoms. Since both chemicals break down very quickly in the body, they are very difficult to detect, even though symptoms may be present.
Has the federal government made recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a drinking water guideline for ethylene glycol of 7,000 micrograms (7,000 µg/L) in a liter of water for an adult.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as "generally recognized as safe," which means that it is acceptable for use in flavorings, drugs, and cosmetics, and as a direct food additive.
The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommends a maximum level of 127 milligrams of ethylene glycol per cubic meter of air (127 mg/m3) for a 15-minute exposure.
Glossary
Reference
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). 1996. Toxicological profile for ethylene glycol and propylene glycol (update). Atlanta, GA.: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.
You can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
For more information, contact:
U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services
Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry