Due to its low molecular weight, lively nature, can play esterification / etherification / Aging / oxide / acetal / dehydration reaction. Similar to ethanol, can generate major inorganic or organic acid ester, generally the first and only one hydroxyl group reacts by increasing the temperature, increasing the amount of acid, etc., can make two hydroxyl groups to form an ester. Such as mixed with sulfuric acid and nitric acid, is formed dinitrate. Acid chloride or anhydride of the two hydroxyl groups readily form esters. In ethylene glycol (manganese dioxide, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide or sulfuric acid) heating the catalyst can be intramolecular or intermolecular dehydration. Glycol with an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal alkoxides action. The main system for polyester polyester, polyester resin, dehumidifying agents, plasticizers, surfactants, synthetic fibers, cosmetics and explosives, as a solvent and a dye / ink or the like, preparation of the engine antifreeze, gas dehydration agent, manufacture of resins, can also be used for cellophane, fiber, leather, adhesives humectant.
