Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (DGMBE)
Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (DGMBE), also known as 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol, is a butyl ether derivative of diethylene glycol. It is commonly used as a coalescing agent in latex paints and as a solvent in various industrial applications. Although it is a derivative of the principal ether-alcohol, it is classified under this tariff item as a halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivative of 2,2'-oxydiethanol.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the product is not a halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivative
Other ether-alcohols not specifically covered elsewhere in the heading.
If imported as part of a paint or coating formulation
Paints and varnishes based on acrylic or vinyl polymers may be classified under this heading.
If imported as a solvent mixture for paints or varnishes
Organic composite solvents and thinners, not elsewhere specified, are classified here.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Ensure the product is pure and not mixed with other solvents, as mixtures may fall under different headings
• Verify the end-use to confirm classification, as some applications may require additional permits
• Keep detailed technical documentation to support the classification if requested by the CBSA
Related Products under Tariff item 2909.41.00
Bio-Based Diethylene Glycol
Bio-based diethylene glycol is chemically identical to petrochemical 2,2'-oxydiethanol but derived from renewable ethylene oxide, with over 50% bio-carbon content verified by 14C testing. It qualifies as a separate chemically defined organic compound under Chapter 29 Note 1(a) and is classified under tariff item 2909.41.00 as an ether-alcohol.
Diethylene Glycol 99.9% ACS Reagent
Diethylene glycol ACS reagent grade is 2,2'-oxydiethanol with purity ≥99.9% and low residue after ignition, meeting American Chemical Society specifications for laboratory use. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound under Chapter 29 Note 1(a) and falls under tariff item 2909.41.00 as an ether-alcohol.
Diethylene Glycol Aqueous Solution 50%
A 50% aqueous solution of 2,2'-oxydiethanol in deionized water qualifies under Chapter 29 Note 1(d) as a product of heading 29.09 dissolved in water. It is used in heat transfer applications and deicing fluids and is classified under tariff item 2909.41.00 as an ether-alcohol.
Diethylene Glycol Distillation Cut 98%
A 98% distillation cut of 2,2'-oxydiethanol containing 1-2% triethylene glycol qualifies as a separate chemically defined compound under Chapter 29 Note 1(a), as impurities do not preclude classification. It is used in urethane production and falls under tariff item 2909.41.00 as an ether-alcohol.
Diethylene Glycol for Cell Culture Media
Diethylene glycol for cell culture media is sterile-filtered 2,2'-oxydiethanol with endotoxin testing (<0.5 EU/ml) for biopharmaceutical production. It meets USP and Ph. Eur. requirements and is a separate chemically defined organic compound under Chapter 29 Note 1(a), classified under tariff item 2909.41.00.
Diethylene Glycol for Ink Formulations
Low-odor diethylene glycol for ink formulations is 2,2'-oxydiethanol used as a viscosity modifier and humectant in flexographic and gravure inks. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound under Chapter 29 Note 1(a) and falls under tariff item 2909.41.00 as an ether-alcohol.