Glycol ethers are a class of chemical compounds consisting of alkyl ethers that are based on glycols such as ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. They are commonly used as solvents in paints and cleaners. They have good solvent properties while having higher boiling points than the lower-molecular-weight ethers and alcohols.
The name "Cellosolve" was registered in 1924 as a United States trademark by Carbide & Carbon Chemicals Corporation (a division[1] of Union Carbide Corporation) for "Solvents for Gums, Resins, Cellulose Esters, and the Like". "Ethyl Cellosolve" or simply "Cellosolve" consists mainly of ethylene glycol monoethyl ether and was introduced as a lower-cost solvent alternative to ethyl lactate. "Butyl Cellosolve" (ethylene glycol monobutyl ether) was introduced in 1928, and "Methyl Cellosolve" (ethylene glycol monomethyl ether) in 1929.[2][3]
Glycol ethers are designated "E-series" or "P-series" for those made from ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, respectively. Typically, E-series glycol ethers are found in pharmaceuticals, sunscreens, cosmetics, inks, dyes and water-based paints, while P-series glycol ethers are used in degreasers, cleaners, aerosol paints and adhesives. Both E- and P-series glycol ethers can be used as intermediates that undergo further chemical reactions, producing glycol diethers and glycol ether acetates.[citation needed] P-series glycol ethers are marketed as having lower toxicity than the E-series.
Most glycol ethers are water-soluble, biodegradable and only a few are considered toxic.[citation needed]
In the early 1990s, studies found higher than expected rates of miscarriages among women who worked in semiconductor plants, which was traced back to glycol ethers[which?] used in the photoresist substances that coat semiconductors.[4]
One study suggests that occupational exposure to glycol ethers is related to low motile sperm count,[5] a finding disputed by the chemical industry.[6]