Monographic: Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol is an organic compound that is obtained by hydration of propylene oxide and is presented as a colorless, hygroscopic and water miscible liquid. Its systematic name is propane-1,2-diol.
Its formula is C3H8O2 and its main physical parameters are the following:
- Boiling point: 187ºC
- Melting point: -59ºC
- Relative density (water = 1): 1,04
- Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2,6
- Flash point: 107ºC
- Autoignition temperature: 371ºC
- Steam pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 10,6
- Explosive limits (% by volume in air): 2,6 – 12,6
Propylene glycol can be technical grade or USP grade. In both cases, one of its main characteristics is its great capacity for hydration and lubrication.
At an industrial level, its use in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry stands out due to the two characteristics previously described (hydration and lubrication), but it also has the following applications:
- Food industry: as a flavoring and moisturizing agent, as antifreeze and as a solvent for coloring food.
- Ceramic industry: as a serigraphic vehicle.
- Automotive industry: in vehicle antifreeze.
Its use in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry stands out due its great capacity for hydration and lubrication.
Although propylene glycol is not a product that requires special handling or storage conditions, it is recommended to store it avoiding heat sources, placing the containers in dry and ventilated places.
Check here the safety sheet.
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