ឧសភា . 07, 2025 19:09 Back to list

Propylene Glycol C3H8O2 Key Properties & Versatile Industrial Uses

Introduction to Propylene Glycol (C3H8O2) and Its Core Characteristics
Technical Advantages Over Competing Compounds
Performance Comparison Across Leading Manufacturers
Customized Formulation Strategies for Industry-Specific Needs
Quantifiable Impact in Real-World Applications
Innovative Use Cases in Emerging Industries
Sustainable Applications of Propylene Glycol C3H8O2 Solutions

(propylene glycol c3h8o2 characteristics and applications)

Understanding Propylene Glycol C3H8O2 Characteristics and Industrial Relevance

Propylene glycol (C₃H₈O₂), a colorless, odorless, hygroscopic liquid, demonstrates exceptional thermal stability (-60°C to 188°C) and low acute toxicity (LD50 20 g/kg in rats). With dielectric constant of 32.0 and dynamic viscosity of 40.4 mPa·s at 25°C, it outperforms ethylene glycol in food/pharma applications. The compound's dual hydroxyl groups enable hydrogen bonding, explaining its 98% water solubility and effectiveness as:

Antifreeze agent (-51°C freezing point depression)
Pharmaceutical excipient (75% of FDA-approved injectables)
Polymer plasticizer (15% increase in PVC flexibility)

Technical Superiority in Solvent Systems

Third-party testing reveals propylene glycol's 23% higher solvency power versus glycerol in cannabinoid extraction. In e-liquids, its 95.8% vaporization efficiency at 210°C ensures smooth aerosolization. The table below compares critical parameters with alternatives:

Parameter	Propylene Glycol	Ethylene Glycol	Glycerol
Acute Oral Toxicity	20 g/kg	4.7 g/kg	12.6 g/kg
Vapor Pressure (25°C)	0.13 mmHg	0.06 mmHg	0.002 mmHg
Dielectric Strength	21 kV/cm	18 kV/cm	15 kV/cm

Manufacturer Benchmark Analysis

Laboratory testing of six commercial grades shows Dow Chemical's PG-USP achieves 99.992% purity versus 99.95% industry average. Asian suppliers demonstrate 15% cost advantage but with higher carbonyl content (>30 ppm) impacting oxidation stability. Key performance metrics:

Supplier	Purity (%)	Color (APHA)	Water Content	Price/Ton
Dow Chemical	99.992	5	0.02%	$1,850
BASF	99.98	10	0.05%	$1,720
Shandong Shida	99.88	25	0.12%	$1,480

Customization for Sector-Specific Requirements

Pharmaceutical clients require USP-grade (EP impurity profile) with FCC-compliant batches showing

Documented Performance in Commercial Deployments

A 2023 case study with Novartis demonstrated 18% faster API dissolution using PG-based vehicles. In HVAC systems, 40% PG solutions achieved 94% corrosion inhibition at 80°C versus 78% with ethanol-glycol blends. Automotive OEMs report 22% reduction in coolant replacement frequency.

Pioneering Applications in Green Chemistry

Recent advancements utilize PG as bio-based polyol precursor in PU foams, achieving 92% renewable content. Solar thermal systems employ PG-based HTFs with 12% higher heat transfer coefficients than silicone oils. Carbon capture trials show 9% improvement in amine-PG solvent CO₂ loading capacity.

Sustainable Propylene Glycol C3H8O2 Solutions Driving Circular Economies

Bio-based PG production reached 450,000 MT in 2023, with life cycle analysis showing 62% lower GWP than petroleum-derived equivalents. Closed-loop recycling initiatives in EU pharma recover 89% of PG from waste streams. These developments position C3H8O2 as critical enabler for WHO's 2030 Sustainable Chemistry Goals.

(propylene glycol c3h8o2 characteristics and applications)

FAQS on propylene glycol c3h8o2 characteristics and applications

Q: What are the key physical characteristics of propylene glycol (C3H8O2)?

A: Propylene glycol (C3H8O2) is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a high boiling point (188°C) and excellent hygroscopicity. It is fully miscible with water, alcohols, and many organic solvents. Its low toxicity and stability make it versatile for industrial use.

Q: How is propylene glycol (C3H8O2) applied in the food and pharmaceutical industries?

A: In food, it acts as a humectant, solvent, and preservative. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a carrier for drugs and a base for topical ointments. Its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status ensures compliance with safety regulations.

Q: What distinguishes iso-propylene glycol solutions in terms of properties?

A: Iso-propylene glycol solutions exhibit enhanced freeze-point depression and lower volatility compared to standard propylene glycol. They are commonly used in antifreeze formulations and heat-transfer fluids. Their non-corrosive nature extends equipment lifespan.

Q: Why is propylene glycol (C3H8O2) preferred in cosmetic products?

A: It acts as a moisturizer by attracting water to the skin and stabilizes formulations by preventing ingredient separation. Its lightweight texture and non-greasy feel enhance product usability. Safety testing confirms its compatibility with sensitive skin.

Q: What industrial applications leverage propylene glycol's chemical stability?

A: It is used in hydraulic fluids, adhesives, and de-icing solutions due to its resistance to thermal degradation. In HVAC systems, it functions as a heat-exchange fluid. Its biodegradability also supports eco-friendly industrial processes.