The legend of propylene glycol, the secrets of its chemical formula and structure revealed!
Publish Time: 2024-07-23
1. Basic properties of propylene glycol
Definition: Propylene glycol, also known as dihydroxypropane, has many isomers, among which 1,2-propylene glycol is the most common and stable. Propylene glycol usually refers to 1,2-propylene glycol.
Chemical formula and structure: The chemical formula of propylene glycol is C3H8O2, and the structural formula is CH3CHOHCH2OH. It is a diol with two hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups, which makes it have the typical properties of alcohol compounds.
2. Physical state and characteristics of propylene glycol
Physical state: Propylene glycol is a colorless viscous liquid under normal conditions, almost odorless, and slightly sweet when smelled. Its melting point is -59℃ and boiling point is 188.2℃, which means that propylene glycol is liquid at room temperature and pressure.
Solubility: Propylene glycol is easily soluble in water, ethanol and a variety of organic solvents, which makes it widely used in many fields.
3. Uses of propylene glycol
Food industry: Propylene glycol is often used as a food additive in the food industry, such as a stabilizer, emulsifier, moisturizer, etc., to improve the quality and taste of food.
Cosmetics and personal care products: Propylene glycol is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products, such as makeup remover wipes, face creams, shampoos, etc., due to its good moisturizing and solubility.
Pharmaceutical industry: Propylene glycol is used as a drug solvent and carrier in the pharmaceutical industry to prepare oral liquids, injections and other pharmaceutical preparations.
Other industries: Propylene glycol is also used to synthesize important industrial raw materials such as unsaturated polyesters, epoxy resins, and polyurethane resins, and is widely used in coatings, plastics, textiles and other fields.
4. Safety of propylene glycol
Toxicity: Propylene glycol has low toxicity, but excessive intake or long-term contact may have adverse effects on health. Therefore, relevant safety regulations and restrictions need to be observed when using propylene glycol.
Regulations and standards: Countries have strict regulations and standards for the use of propylene glycol in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other fields to ensure its safety and compliance.
In summary, propylene glycol is an important organic compound with a wide range of applications and a variety of excellent properties. However, when using propylene glycol, attention should be paid to its safety and compliance to ensure human health and environmental safety.
