Glycol-Propylene, recognized as propylene glycol in many technical circles, carries the molecular formula C3H8O2 and a molecular weight of 76.09 g/mol. Commonly supplied as a viscous, odorless, colorless liquid, it features a high level of functionality across diverse industries. The HS Code for Glycol-Propylene is 29053200, which helps customs authorities classify and facilitate international trade, and also supports compliance in import/export regulations. As someone who has worked around raw materials for years, I tend to see propylene glycol wherever there is need for a safe, versatile ingredient—be it cosmetics, food products, or industrial solutions.
Anyone who handles propylene glycol regularly will notice its distinctive texture and density—approximately 1.036 grams per milliliter at 20°C. That’s neither heavy nor especially light, falling in a comfortable range for handling. This compound is hygroscopic, so it pulls moisture from the air. Its crystalline solid state appears under subzero temperatures but transitions smoothly into a pearl-like or powdered form when processed. I have worked with suppliers shipping both solid and liquid varieties, each suited to specific manufacturing conditions. Glycol-Propylene remains miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform, which means it mixes easily. The boiling point registers at 188.2°C, so it stands up well to moderate heat without rapid evaporation.
The molecular structure of Glycol-Propylene centers on two hydroxyl (–OH) groups attached to adjacent carbon atoms, making it a true diol. The chemical backbone is simple and unfussy—three carbon atoms linked in a chain, with oxygen and hydrogen bouncing off both ends. This structure supports its role as a dependable solvent and stabilizer. The specification sheet for a typical industrial-grade sample lists purity above 99.5%, water content below 0.2%, and a refractive index close to 1.432–1.434 at 20°C. In the lab, this translates to predictable results batch after batch, which is key in regulated environments like pharmaceuticals and food processing.
Raw Glycol-Propylene appears in several forms: flakes, powder, crystal, pearls, and liquid—all tailored to storage, transport, and end-use. Liquid remains far and away the dominant commercial form, found by the liter or in large drums. Certain suppliers package solid forms for more stable shipping, especially going overseas where temperature swings threaten to spill or degrade the cargo. In my experience, liquid works best for direct blending in formulations, while solid and powdered forms offer shelf stability in sectors with less frequent turnovers.
Density, already mentioned as 1.036 g/cm³, impacts storage regulations and transport logistics. Equally pressing is safety. Glycol-Propylene carries a strong record of low hazard; it’s ranked as “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) by regulatory agencies like the FDA for use in food and pharmaceuticals. It does not accumulate in the human body and, when consumed at low concentrations, poses minimal risk. That said, misuse, large doses, or contaminated sources can trigger mild symptoms like irritation or upset stomach. Strict adherence to spec sheets, batch testing, and clear labeling in raw material supply chains protect both workers and end consumers. Official safety data sheets classify it as a substance of low acute toxicity, yet safe handling practices—gloves, splash-proof goggles, well-ventilated areas—should never be bypassed in a professional setting.
Manufacturers produce Glycol-Propylene through the hydration of propylene oxide, itself a product of petroleum refining. This means that availability, price, and quality are closely tied to global petrochemical flows. I’ve observed times where refinery shutdowns or transport strikes upend the raw material supply chain. This has ripple effects on downstream products, from personal care solutions to antifreeze. The push toward sustainable and renewable alternatives, such as bio-based propylene glycol derived from vegetable sources, takes on even more importance amid volatile fossil fuel prices and environmental pressures. Certification and traceability of raw materials remain firm requirements across the entire industry, as both buyers and regulators demand transparency.
The landscape of Glycol-Propylene use stretches wide. In pharmaceuticals, it acts as a solvent or carrier for active ingredients. Food processing leans on its stability and safety for moisture retention and to maintain texture, especially in baked goods, frostings, and even frozen foods. The cosmetic industry depends on its power as a humectant, stabilizer, and carrier for fragrances and extracts. Technical markets make room for Glycol-Propylene in antifreeze—where its lower toxicity compared to ethylene glycol appeals directly to concerns over waterway and pet safety. Hydraulic fluids, de-icing solutions, and heat transfer fluids also count on its robust molecular structure for reliability under stress and low temperatures. I’ve worked with smaller industrial clients who favor propylene glycol for its low reactivity, which reduces process risks and improves product shelf life.
Despite low inherent hazard, risks pop up in improper storage. Glycol-Propylene absorbs water vapor, so closed containers and controlled environments keep quality from slipping. Slippery spills can create workplace hazards, especially in busy production floors. Comprehensive training and maintenance of clear spill-kit stations show up as best practices in manufacturing settings. Some debate surrounds the environmental impact when accidental releases reach surface waters, where high concentrations may disrupt aquatic life. Solutions center on robust containment during transport, strict documentation, regular inspection of tanks, and adherence to local disposal rules—steps every responsible employer and facility manager should hard-wire into routine.
People in the chemistry and manufacturing areas see increasing demand for renewable and transparently sourced Glycol-Propylene. Investing in production lines capable of handling bio-based substrates may offer relief from petrochemical market fluctuations while easing regulatory headaches. Community engagement, third-party audits, and supply chain oversight further enhance trust and demonstrate commitment under evolving environmental and health standards. My own experience watching clients navigate regulatory change proved that early adoption and open reporting frequently pay off—reducing recalls, easing cross-border trades, and helping companies differentiate in crowded markets.
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