(R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol stands as a chiral organic compound recognized by its systematic name 1,2-propanediol or propylene glycol, with the (R)-configuration indicating its specific three-dimensional structure. Chemists often call it (R)-propylene glycol to pinpoint the stereochemistry, which distinguishes it from its mirror-image (S)-isomer. Its physical form shifts depending on storage and temperature, ranging from a colorless, nearly odorless, viscous liquid at room temperature to a crystalline solid under colder conditions. Offered in bulk as liquids, flakes, crystals, powders, or pearls, (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol supports a wide scope of applications, from green solvent manufacturing to chiral synthesis in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Commercial sources provide (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol either as pure high-grade liquid or as solid flakes and crystals. Production routes typically start from bio-based feedstocks or chemical hydrolysis of propylene oxide, leading to a product free from major contaminants. As a raw material, it delivers strong value in downstream synthesis of drug intermediates, flavor compounds, and specialty resins, thanks to its high enantiomeric purity. Demand comes mostly from pharmaceutical manufacturers looking for chiral building blocks, food processing firms seeking safe humectants, and electronics producers needing a solvent with precise performance. Raw material buyers focus on its traceability, hazard profile, and compliance with international chemical control standards.
(R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol’s molecular formula is C3H8O2, reflecting its simple yet versatile three-carbon backbone with two hydroxyl groups positioned on the first and second carbons, giving it diol functionality. The (R)-prefix specifies the absolute configuration at the second carbon atom—an essential feature for applications demanding enantioselective effects. The compound’s molar mass reaches 76.09 g/mol, and its chemical structure ensures pleasant miscibility with water, alcohols, and other polar organics. Its optical rotation, measured as [α]D20, typically falls in the -18.5° to -19.5° range, confirming enantiomeric dominance.
Physical characteristics of (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol include a density of 1.036 g/cm3 at 20°C, melting near -60°C, and boiling at about 188°C under atmospheric pressure. Its refractive index registers close to 1.4318 (20°C). In its purest form, the liquid resists evaporation, facilitates hydrogen bonding, and displays a smooth, almost syrupy consistency. Depending on ambient humidity and cooling, the substance crystallizes, delivering either flakes or pearl-like solids. These traits afford it flexibility in storage and transport, accommodating drums, intermediate bulk containers, and small-volume laboratory bottles.
Material safety for (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol ranks favorably compared to many industrial glycols. The compound’s toxicity profile shows low acute oral and dermal toxicity, making it a preferred base for pharmaceutical synthesis and sensitive applications. Its dermal exposure rarely provokes irritation, although inhalation of concentrated vapor or accidental ingestion by children should prompt immediate medical review. Fire hazards register as moderate, with the liquid forming combustible mixtures at elevated temperatures. Spill management involves standard absorbents and dilution with water, as environmental persistence stays low. Proper labeling under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) warns operators to avoid prolonged exposure, prevent contact with oxidizers, and limit accidental release, all documented on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Use cases extend across solution chemistry, specialty blends, and direct chiral catalysis. Solubility in common polar solvents gives laboratories an agile platform for advanced analysis, reaction development, and quality checks. Pharmaceutical houses operate with (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol in both liquid and solid phase to create intermediates and final formulations that depend on chirality for efficacy. In solution form, it acts as a carrier fluid for active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients; as a solid, it enables batch crystallization and purification routines. Bulk supply supports resin manufacturing, anti-caking agents, antifreeze fluids, and as a precursor to biodegradable polymers.
Customs classification for (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol globally follows the Harmonized System (HS) Code 29053200, assigned to propylene glycol and its derivatives. Crossing borders for supply chain purposes relies on transparent documentation of country of origin, batch purity, and compliance certification such as REACH in Europe or TSCA in the US. Regulatory oversight ensures all shipments reference hazard classification, handling requirements, and emergency protocols for accidental release or misuse. Supply chain actors track these details throughout storage, transit, and delivery to support traceability—from raw ingredient to finished product—needed by responsible manufacturers.
Having spent considerable years in the specialty chemicals sector, the role of (R)-(-)-1,2-Propanediol never fails to stand out. It sits near the foundation of many value-based products, particularly where chirality creates commercial advantage. Demand for high-purity, enantiomerically enriched products grows as pharmaceutical and fine chemical markets expand focus on targeted therapies. Companies depend on reliable suppliers who not only deliver on purity specifications, but also on regulatory compliance and transparency. The increasing shift toward sustainable feedstock sources adds another layer of responsibility for all involved, tying together product quality, supply assurance, and environmental stewardship.
Quality assurance begins at the production level—choosing feedstocks that guarantee consistent chiral purity and deploying validated crystallization or distillation techniques. Real-time analytics during production and at each distribution checkpoint protect against accidental contamination or loss of stereochemical integrity. Improvements in packaging, such as barrier drums and sealed intermediate bulk containers, shield the product from moisture and inadvertent exposure. Training workers to use PPE, follow safe storage protocols, and attend regular hazard briefings shrinks incident rates and preserves quality for sensitive end uses. Industry also benefits by strengthening relationships with regulatory bodies and updating best practices as standards evolve.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
