MONOPROPYLENE GLYCOL

MONOPROPYLENE GLYCOL

Monopropylene glycol (MPG), also known as propylene glycol or 1,2-propanediol, is a versatile synthetic liquid chemical with a wide array of applications. It is a colorless, practically odorless, and slightly viscous liquid with a faintly sweet taste. Its chemical formula is CH3​CH(OH)CH2​OH.  

Key Properties:

• Appearance: Clear, colorless, viscous liquid  
• Odor: Practically odorless  
• Taste: Faintly sweet  
• Molecular Weight: Approximately 76.095 g/mol
• Density: Around 1.036 g/cm³ at 20°C  
• Melting Point: -59 °C (-74 °F)  
• Boiling Point: 187.6 °C (370 °F)
• Flash Point: Typically around 99-104 °C (210-219 °F)
• Solubility: Miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform; soluble in many other solvents.  
• Hygroscopic: Absorbs moisture from the air.  

Common Uses:

Monopropylene glycol has diverse applications across various industries:  

• Industrial:
  • Antifreeze and Deicing Fluids: A primary use, as it lowers the freezing point of water. It's used in automotive antifreeze, aircraft deicing fluids, and runway deicers.  
  • Heat Transfer Fluid: Used in engine coolants and other heat transfer applications due to its ability to operate over a wide temperature range.  
  • Production of Unsaturated Polyester Resins: A key ingredient in manufacturing these resins used in various products like boat hulls and pipes.  
  • Hydraulic Fluids: Used in some hydraulic systems.  
  • Paints and Coatings: Acts as a solvent and helps with application and freeze-thaw stability.  
• Food and Beverage:
  • Solvent and Carrier: Used for flavors, food colors, and other additives.  
  • Humectant: Helps retain moisture in baked goods, processed foods, and pet food.  
  • Stabilizer: Maintains consistency and uniformity in processed foods like dairy items, dressings, and frozen desserts.  
  • Antimicrobial Agent: Has some preservative properties.
• Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics:
  • Solvent and Carrier: Used as a solvent for many drugs and cosmetic ingredients.
  • Humectant: Helps to keep skin and hair hydrated in lotions, creams, shampoos, and other personal care products.
  • Excipient: An inactive ingredient that serves as a carrier in pharmaceutical formulations (oral, topical, and some injectable). Note: Direct injection into the blood system is not allowed.
• Other:
  • Humectant in Tobacco Products: Helps maintain moisture content. Note: Use in tobacco and electronic cigarettes is generally not supported by manufacturers.
  • Chemical Intermediate: Used in the production of other chemicals.
  • Agriculture (non-pesticide): Used in some applications.
  • Adhesives and Sealants.  
  • Cleaning and Upholstery Care Products.
  • Inks, Toners, and Coloring Products.