Overview
Hydroquinone bis(2-hydroxyethyl) ether (CAS 104-38-1 ), commonly known as HQEE, is a difunctional diol used as a chain extender and reactive intermediate in polymer systems. It is also recognized commercially as 1,4-Bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzene.
Its aromatic diol structure makes it a preferred building block for producing rigid, high-performance polyurethane and polyester materials. HQEE is primarily used as a chain extender in cast polyurethane elastomers.
In these applications, it improves hardness, load-bearing capacity, and thermal resistance in finished parts such as industrial wheels, rollers, and mining screens. It is essential for heavy-duty industrial components.
In printing and packaging, it contributes to the formulation of high-durability inks and coatings where chemical resistance is a key performance requirement. This ensures longevity in harsh environments.
Formulators in the personal care sector incorporate it into film-forming systems and specialty polymer bases. It also functions as a reactive diol in polyester synthesis for various industrial resins.
Its aromatic backbone raises the glass transition temperature of the final resin, enhancing structural integrity. HQEE is supplied as a white to off-white solid, typically in flake or granular form.
It is available in technical and polymer grades, with purity specifications commonly at 99% or higher. Packaging options generally include bags and drums suited to industrial-scale procurement needs.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 105-106 °C |
| Boiling Point | 185-200 °C (0.3 mmHg) |
| Density | 1.0143 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | white to off-white crystalline powder or flakes |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Odor | odorless |
| Form | Crystalline Powder or Flakes |
| Water Solubility | practically insoluble |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.45Pa at 45℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4720 (estimate) |
| Log P | 0.41 at 30℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29094990 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 104-38-1
- EC Number
- 203-197-3
- Mol. Weight
- 198.22
- HS Code
- 29094990
- Category
- Alcohols & Glycols