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Typical Applications for Propylene Glycol and Dipropylene Glycol
August 29, 2019

Propylene glycol is an organic alcohol with chemical formula C3H8O2 that sees use as an ingredient in a variety of products.  Typical applications range from food & nutrition to fragrances & perfumes, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, inks, paints, coatings, and more.  It is a colorless and nearly odorless viscous liquid that is generally non-irritating and non-allergenic, and United States Pharmacopeia (USP) grade propylene glycol is commonly found in baked goods, frostings, dressings, food colorings, and flavorings such as vanilla or almond extracts. 

As a food additive, Propylene Glycol USP is used to help distribute flavoring evenly throughout a product and to maintain flavor quality over longer periods of time.  It can be used as a texturizer to adjust a food product’s appearance or as a stabilizer and thickener during food processing.  Propylene glycol helps with moisture retention in prepared foods.  As a carrier, propylene glycol dissolves other food additives or nutrients such as colors, flavors, or antioxidants.  As an emulsifier, it is used to prevent ingredients such as oil and vinegar in salad dressing from separating.  Propylene glycol is sometimes used as an anti-caking agent in order to prevent food components from sticking together and forming clumps.  And it can be used as a dough strengthener, as it modifies the starches and gluten in dough to make a more stable product. 

In pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, USP grade propylene glycol performs several functions.  It can act as an emulsifier in cosmetic and pharmaceutical creams, as a solvent in elixirs and other liquid medications, or as a plasticizer in hair sprays, hand sanitizers, and moisturizing creams.  In toothpastes and mouthwashes propylene glycol is sometimes used as a solvent for flavorings and dyes.  And it is used as a solvent and coupling agent in sunscreens, lotions, and shampoos. 

Dipropylene glycol is produced as a byproduct in the manufacture of propylene glycol and it also sees use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.  An odorless and colorless liquid with chemical formula C6H14O3, dipropylene glycol is commonly found in many cosmetics including foundation, sunscreen, hair dye, antiperspirant, hair conditioner, and various skin care products.  Fragrance grade dipropylene glycol is used in perfumes due to its ability to attach to the fragrance molecules and make them slower to disperse.  The strength of a perfume can be adjusted by raising or lowering the concentration of dipropylene glycol in the formula. 

Other industrial uses of propylene glycol include the production of polymers and the manufacture of building materials.  It is used as a chemical feedstock for toner and laser printers, and it sees use in airplane deicing fluid.  To learn more about these products or to request a quote, contact Independent Chemical today. 

 

 

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