Propylene glycol

Basic Information

CAS: 57-55-6

HS: 29053200

Color, Odor, State: Colorless, odorless, transparent liquid

Toxicity: Non-toxic

Flammability: Flammable

Density: 1.0381

Volatility: Low volatility

Corrosivity: Non-corrosive

Boiling Point: 188°C

Decomposition: Decomposes at high temperatures

Stability: Good

Melting Point: -59°C

Acidity/Alkalinity: Neutral

Hygroscopicity: Good

Autoignition Temperature: 421.1°C

Viscosity: Good

Deliquescence: Not deliquescent

Flash Point: 99°C

Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O₂

Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, and most organic solvents

Application

1. It serves as a primary raw material for unsaturated polyester, epoxy, and polyurethane resins;

2. Propylene glycol exhibits excellent viscosity and hygroscopicity while being non-toxic, making it widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries as a humectant, antifreeze agent, lubricant, and solvent;

3. In the food industry, it serves as an excellent solvent for flavorings and colorants. In pharmaceuticals, it functions as a solvent, softener, and excipient for various ointments and liniments;

4. Propylene glycol exhibits good miscibility with diverse fragrances, making it suitable as a solvent and softener in cosmetics;

5. It also serves as a tobacco humidifier, moisturizer, and anti-mold agent; a lubricant for food processing equipment; and a solvent for food marking inks. Its aqueous solution is an effective antifreeze.

6. Additionally, it functions as a raw material for plasticizers, surfactants, food emulsifiers, demulsifiers, fruit ripening agents, preservatives, desiccants, lubricants, and antifreeze agents.