Product Introduction
Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether Acetate (CAS 111-15-9), also widely known as CAC or 2-Ethoxyethyl Acetate, is a high-boiling, slow-evaporating glycol ether ester. It is a colorless liquid with a mild, pleasant ester-like odor. Due to its unique molecular structure containing both ether and ester functional groups, it exhibits exceptional solvency for a wide variety of resins, including nitrocellulose, epoxy, and alkyd resins. It is a critical component in the formulation of high-quality surface coatings where a smooth, glossy finish is paramount.
Product Selling Points
1. Exceptional Solvency Power
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Advantage: Effectively dissolves a broad spectrum of natural and synthetic resins and oils.
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Benefit: Versatile Formulation: Allows for the creation of stable, high-solid coatings and inks with optimized viscosity, enhancing the durability of the final product.
2. Slow Evaporation & Excellent Leveling
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Advantage: High boiling point ensures the solvent remains in the film longer during the drying process.
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Benefit: Superior Finish: Prevents surface defects like “orange peel” or “blushing,” resulting in an ultra-smooth, high-gloss finish in automotive and decorative coatings.
3. High Dilution Ratio
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Advantage: Can be significantly diluted with aromatic hydrocarbons without losing solvency.
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Benefit: Cost-Efficiency: Enables manufacturers to reduce formulation costs by using more economical co-solvents while maintaining high-performance characteristics.
Applications
Automotive & Industrial Coatings
Used as a high-boiling solvent and leveling agent in spray paints and stoving enamels to ensure a smooth, professional-grade finish.
Printing Inks
Commonly found in screen printing and gravure inks to control drying speed and improve the gloss and adhesion of the ink.
Microelectronics Industry
Utilized as a high-purity solvent in the manufacturing of photoresists and for cleaning precision electronic components.
Resin Intermediate
Serves as a vital processing solvent in the synthesis and processing of specialized epoxy and phenolic resins.
Packaging & Storage
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Packaging: 200kg UN-certified steel drums; ISO tanks for bulk shipment.
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated dedicated chemical warehouse. Crucial: Keep away from fire, sparks, heat, and direct sunlight. Containers must be hermetically sealed and labeled correctly. Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.
Synonyms
CAC; 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate; Cellosolve acetate; Glycol monoethyl ether acetate; Ethyl glycol acetate.
Matching Materials
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Nitrocellulose (CAS 9004-70-0) —— Primary resin base for lacquers using CAC
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Epoxy Resin (CAS 25068-38-6) —— Used in protective coatings where CAC improves flow
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Toluene (CAS 108-88-3) —— Common aromatic hydrocarbon used to dilute CAC formulations
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Xylene (CAS 1330-20-7) —— Co-solvent often blended with CAC for industrial paints
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Butyl Acetate (CAS 123-86-4) —— Fast-evaporating solvent used alongside CAC to balance drying time
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Isophorone (CAS 78-59-1) —— Very high-boiling solvent used with CAC for specialty inks
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Acrylic Resin (CAS 9003-01-4) —— Used in automotive topcoats where CAC acts as a leveling agent
FAQ
Q: What is the main benefit of using CAC instead of Ethyl Acetate?
A: CAC has a much higher boiling point and slower evaporation rate, which allows the coating film to “flow” longer, eliminating surface imperfections that fast solvents like Ethyl Acetate might cause.
Q: Can CAC be used in water-based systems?
A: CAC has limited solubility in water (about 23%). It is primarily used in solvent-based systems, though it can act as a coupling agent in some specialized emulsions.
Q: Is CAC considered a hazardous material for transport?
A: Yes, it is classified as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid (UN 1172). We follow all IMDG and ADR regulations for safe global delivery.
Q: Does CAC affect the adhesion of the coating?
A: Generally, it improves adhesion by ensuring the resin has adequate time to wet the substrate and penetrate pores before the solvent fully evaporates.
Q: How does CAC perform in high-humidity environments?
A: Its low hygroscopicity compared to other glycol ethers helps prevent “blushing” (moisture entrapment) in the paint film during humid weather.
