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Detection of Ethylene Glycol in Aqueous Solutions Through the Use of Gas Chromatography

Undergraduate #176
Discipline: Chemistry and Chemical Sciences
Subcategory: Chemistry (not Biochemistry)

Jesus Cedillo - Fort Valley State University
Co-Author(s): Robin Bright, Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA



Ethylene glycol is a poisonous compound found in nearly pure form at any auto parts department in the country. Upon ingestion, ethylene glycol can cause death or serious health effects within 24 hours. Liquid foods such as milk and orange juice are a particular safety concern because of transportation of those products in unsecured vehicles. A detection method needs to be developed that will allow milk plants to test for the presence and concentration of ethylene glycol prior to induction of the milk into the plant environment. The purpose of this study was to determine if cyclohexanol can be used to quantitatively and reliably extract ethylene glycol from aqueous solutions. If successful, this extraction to method could be utilized in liquid foods. Liquid-liquid extraction and quantification through the use of gas chromatography was employed. A set of ethylene glycol standards in water was used to create a calibration curve for each extraction. It was determined that the distribution constant of the extracted ethylene glycol between organic and aqueous solvents was not consistent, because of this, it can be said that cyclohexanol is not a good fit for the extraction of ethylene glycol. The ideal extraction solvent should have a boiling point below 200°C, be immiscible in water, and interact with the hydroxide groups of ethylene glycol for extraction.

Cedillo ERN Abstract.pdf

Funder Acknowledgement(s): NSF HBCU-UP Targeted Infusion Award #1533498

Faculty Advisor: Robin Bright, brightr@fvsu.edu

Role: I prepared standards daily for the preparation of the calibration curve with the gas chromatograph. Performed extractions with the ethylene glycol and hexanol. Ran the analysis of the extractions on the gas chromatograph.

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This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under Grant No. DUE-1930047. Any opinions, findings, interpretations, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of its authors and do not represent the views of the AAAS Board of Directors, the Council of AAAS, AAAS’ membership or the National Science Foundation.

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