Hygroscopicity: It readily absorbs moisture from the air.
Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohols, and many other organic solvents.
Viscosity: Higher viscosity compared to ethylene glycol.
Boiling Point: Relatively high boiling point.

Applications of Diethylene Glycol

Diethylene glycol is a versatile compound with numerous applications in various industries:

Industrial Applications:

Solvent: Used as a solvent for paints, varnishes, and inks.
Plasticizer: Employed in the production of plastics and resins.
Intermediate: Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals.
Humectant: Used to retain moisture in products like tobacco and paper.
Heat Transfer Fluid: Used in heating and cooling systems.
Personal Care Products:

Used as a humectant in cosmetics and skincare products.
Food Industry:

Used as a solvent and carrier for food additives.
Safety Considerations
While diethylene glycol has many useful applications, it is important to handle it with care. It can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin. It is also flammable and can irritate the skin and eyes.