Diethylene glycol monomethyl ether

Diethylene glycol monomethyl ether (CAS 111-77-3), also known as Methyl Carbitol and commonly abbreviated as DGME, is a slow-evaporating glycol ether solvent used across coatings, printing, and personal care manufacturing. Its controlled evaporation rate and broad solvency profile make it a preferred carrier in formulations requiring extended open time or improved film formation. In architectural and industrial coatings, DGME functions as a coalescing agent.

It acts as a viscosity modifier, improving flow and leveling in waterborne systems. Printing ink formulators use it to control drying speed and maintain pigment dispersion stability in flexographic and gravure applications. In personal care, it acts as a solvent and humectant in rinse-off and leave-on formulations, helping to solubilize active ingredients and improve skin feel. Adhesive and sealant manufacturers incorporate DGME as a reactive diluent.

It serves as a processing aid to optimize application viscosity and curing behavior. DGME is supplied as a clear liquid in standard drum and IBC quantities, with bulk availability for high-volume users. Technical grade is the primary commercial specification, meeting purity requirements for industrial solvent applications. Cosmetic-grade material is available for personal care end uses where tighter impurity limits are required.