Ethylene Glycol
CAS Number: 107-21-1
Sources of exposure:
Industrial uses
Automotive antifreeze, engine coolants, deicing fluids, brake fluids, inks
Description:
Ethylene glycol is a synthetic, water-soluble liquid commonly used in antifreeze and engine coolants because it lowers the freezing point of water. It is also used in deicing solutions and the manufacture of polyester materials. Consumer exposure may occur through handling automotive products, spills, or accidental ingestion.
Health concerns:
Developmental Toxicity
May impact fetal development and birth outcomes.
Neurotoxicity
May impact brain function or development.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Respiratory Toxicity & Asthmagens
May damage the lungs or trigger asthma.
Irritant
May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Banned/restricted lists:
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - developmental
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox). California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List.