Propylene Glycol and Its Various Useful Properties

Propylene glycol is a more environmentally friendly option than ethylene glycol and should be used where the possibility of contamination of waterways, vegetation or soil can occur. It can be formulated as an effective solvent or as an ingredient in deodorants, cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals, to maintain moisture in the products. The Material Safety Data Sheet describes propylene glycol as a colourless liquid that is more viscous than water, and with a slightly sweet flavour. Its boiling point is 188^oC, and the melting point is -22^oC, with a specific gravity of 1.036, making it slightly denser than water. It cannot evaporate to a significant degree, so its vapour pressure remains negligible at normal room temperature.

Propylene glycol is stable, and doesn’t decompose over time. It has low toxicity, low vapour pressure, and a low freeze point, however, it is  flammable at high temperatures. When mixed with water, propylene glycol interrupts ice formation, making it an effective antifreeze or de-icer. Water may freeze at 0^oC, but adding propylene glycol in a 36 percent concentration ensures the water will remain liquid to -18^oC, and more concentrated solutions will remain liquid at lower temperatures.

Propylene glycol is also used in HVAC systems and must contain corrosion inhibitors to counteract acids formed by oxidation of the glycol. Rust or corrosion of metal will decrease the life of the pipes, boilers and other equipment, making inhibitors necessary.

Industrial grade propylene glycol may be recommended where ethylene glycol is unsafe or not recommended, and where you may need to be environmentally sensitive. Many industries use it for different applications, like de-icing, anti-freeze, and hydro-testing, so it is often sold in different grades and blends. Reputable chemical distributors and suppliers can deliver propylene glycol in different methods and in any preferred storage medium, like in bulk, tote, drums, or pails to suit your application.

Propylene Glycol and Its Uses in Canadian Industries

One of the most commonly used synthetic organic compounds for a wide variety of applications is propylene glycol. Its use and safety depends on its formulation, making it versatile for use in food, beauty products, and industrial applications. For Canadian industries, propylene glycol is preferred in applications that require environmental sensitivity, and ethylene glycol may be unsafe or not ideal. Experienced and reputable chemical distributors and suppliers in Canada carry the product in different grades, delivery methods, and blends to cover every industry that may require it. Some examples include tech-grade and recycled products. It can be pre-mixed with deionized water in the correct percentage to give you the freeze protection you require. It can also have dye, or corrosion inhibitors added and is available in standard storage mediums such as bulk, pails, totes, or drums.

Propylene glycol is water soluble, non-corrosive, colourless, and hygroscopic, with a low freezing point, low toxicity, low vapour pressure, mild odour, and medium viscosity. Hence, it is typically used in Canadian industries as hydro-testing fluid, deicer, and anti-freeze. You can purchase it pre-mixed with water, or in its concentrated form, depending on your specifications. Working with the right distributor or supplier will ensure that the product will be prepared according to your specification for burst protection, freezing, or boiling.

The aviation industry in Canada relies on propylene glycol as an aircraft and runway de-icer, to increase the safety and efficiency of airports. Propylene glycol is a critical factor in sustainable wear and weather protection in coatings and paintings, and as an element for ensuring the cleanliness and quality of liquid detergents. Industrial grade propylene glycol may be used in the production of varnishes and in the manufacture of high-performance and unsaturated polyester resins for gel coats, synthetic marble castings, sheet moulding compounds, and reinforced plastic laminates, which are used for the construction of marine vessels and products. It may be used as a solvent for printer inks, a hydraulic fluid stabilizer, and as a preservative for floral arrangements.