Ethylene glycol (1,2-ethanediol): Environmental effects
Description
The immediate effects of exposure to high concentrations (e.g. resulting from a major spill) of ethylene glycol can mean death of animals, birds or fish and death or low growth rate in plants. Long-term effects on animal life are shortened lifespan, reproductive problems, lower fertility and changes in appearance or behaviour. Ethylene glycol has moderate toxicity to aquatic life on both a short term and long term basis.
Entering the environment
If spilled in water ethylene glycol will mix with the water. Ethylene glycol can also be dispersed by the wind.
Where it ends up
In the atmosphere ethylene glycol will be changed into other products in approximately one and a half days, or washed out by rain into the water or soil. In water and soil it degrades in several days to a week. The major degradation product is hydroxyacetaldehyde.
Environmental guidelines
No national guidelines.
Key
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