Propylene glycol
Encyclopedia : P : PR : PRO : Propylene glycol
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| Other names | propylene glycol |
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| Molecular mass | |
| Density | 3 |
| Melting point | °C> |
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| [Chemical infoboxDisclaimer and references] | |
Propylene glycol, also known as 1,2-propanediol, is an organic compound (a diol alcohol), usually a tasteless, odorless, and colorless clear oily liquid that is hygroscopic and miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform. It is manufactured by the hydration of propylene oxide.
Applications
Propylene glycol is used:
- As a moisturizer in medicines, cosmetics, food, and tobacco products
- As a medical and sexual lubricant (A.K.A. "personal lubricant")
- As a flavoring agent in Angostura and Orange bitters
- As a solvent for food colors and flavourings
- As a humectant food additive, labeled as E number E1520
- As a carrier in fragrance oils
- As a food grade antifreeze
- In smoke machines to make artificial smoke for use in firefighters' training and theatrical productions
- In hand sanitizers, antibacterial lotions, and saline solutions
- As a main ingredient in many cosmetic products, including baby wipes, bubble baths, and shampoos
- As the primary ingredient in the "paint" inside a paintball
- As a base ingredient in aircraft deicing fluid and some automobile antifreezes
- In cryonics
Safety
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined propylene glycol to be "generally recognized as safe" for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines. Like ethylene glycol, propylene glycol affects the body's chemistry by increasing the amount of acid. Propylene glycol is metabolized into lactic acid, which occurs naturally as muscles are exercised, while ethylene glycol is metabolized into oxalic acid, which is toxic.Reference
- Merck Index, 11th Edition, 7868
External link
- CDC ToxFAQ for [Ethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol]
- For a full list of external links to MSDSs, spectroscopic data, commercial chemicals suppliers etc. for this compound, see [Chemical sources].
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