A class of organic solvents known as "Glycol Ethers" is based on ethylene or propylene glycol alkyl ethers. It has a high melting point and is made by reacting alcohols with propylene oxide or ethylene oxide. The E-series and P-series of glycol ethers are divided into groups. This division is based on the type of oxide employed in the manufacture of glycol ethers. Pharmaceuticals, sunscreens, cosmetics, inks, dyes, and water-based paints all utilise glycol ethers from the E series, while degreasers, cleansers, aerosol paints, and adhesives use glycol ethers from the P series.
Only a handful of these solvents are regarded as harmful, and the majority are water-soluble and biodegradable. Alkyl ethers of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol form the foundation for the class of solvents known as Glycol Ethers. These solvents often have higher boiling points along with the advantageous solvent characteristics of ethers and alcohols with lower molecular weights.
