Bio - Based / Green Solvents, High-Purity Solvents

1,2-Propanediol (Propylene Glycol)

1,2-Propanediol, commonly known as propylene glycol, is a synthetic organic compound with the chemical formula C3H8O2. It is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid that possesses a faintly sweet taste. As a diol containing two hydroxyl groups, it is miscible with a broad range of solvents, including water, acetone, and chloroform. This versatile substance is categorized as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies for specific uses in food and pharmaceuticals. Propylene glycol serves primarily as a humectant, solvent, and preservative across diverse industries. Its unique ability to lower the freezing point of water makes it a critical component in antifreeze formulations and de-icing fluids. Furthermore, its low toxicity profile compared to ethylene glycol makes it a preferred choice for applications where incidental contact with food or water might occur. The production of 1,2-propanediol typically involves the hydration of propylene oxide, resulting in a high-purity product suitable for processing.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High hygroscopicity allows effective moisture retention in products.
Excellent solvent properties facilitate the dissolution of various active ingredients.
Low volatile organic compound content ensures environmental compliance.
Exhibits significant antimicrobial properties, extending the shelf life of formulations.
Remarkable thermal stability permits use in high-temperature industrial processes.
Biodegradable nature reduces the long-term ecological footprint of chemical waste.
Non-corrosive characteristics protect metal components in heating and cooling systems.
High purity levels meet rigorous USP and EP pharmacopeia standards.
Provides consistent viscosity control in liquid formulations across temperature ranges.
Low vapor pressure minimizes evaporation losses during storage and use.
Optimizes product stability and performance.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Chemical formula C3H8O2 with a molecular weight of 76.09 g/mol.
Boiling point reaches approximately 188.2 degrees Celsius at atmospheric pressure.
Freezing point depression capability reaches -59 degrees Celsius in aqueous solutions.
Specific gravity is measured at 1.036 at 20 degrees Celsius.
Flash point is approximately 99 degrees Celsius in closed cup testing.
Refractive index stands at 1.432, indicating specific light interaction properties.
Dynamic viscosity measures about 42 centipoise at room temperature conditions.
High water solubility ensures complete miscibility for various dilution requirements.
Dielectric constant of 32.0 facilitates specific industrial electrical applications.
Vapor density relative to air is 2.62 for safety.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Serves as a primary solvent for flavorings and colorants in food.
Acts as a vital humectant in cosmetics, lotions, and skin creams.
Used as a non-toxic heat transfer fluid in commercial cooling systems.
Functions as a stabilizing carrier for active pharmaceutical ingredients in medications.
Employed in aircraft de-icing fluids to prevent dangerous ice accumulation.
Used in the manufacturing of polyester resins for construction and marine.
Facilitates moisture retention in tobacco products to preserve quality and texture.
Works as a working fluid in theatrical fog machines for effects.
Utilized in electronic cigarette liquids for aerosol production and delivery across consumer markets.