Chemiekontor Blog. More than just raw materials

We shed light on current market trends for you, explain complex applications in a clear and practical way and present exciting innovations from our range. We not only talk about our products, but also about sustainable solutions and give you exclusive first-hand insights. Stay informed with us about everything that is currently moving the industry and us at Chemiekontor.

Enjoy reading and discovering!

No products found.

Smiling woman with a towel on her head. Cream is on her forehead and nose. With one hand she holds a container filled with cream in front of her eye.

Propylene glycol: areas of application, benefits and chemical composition

Introduction: Why propylene glycol is indispensable

Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) is a fascinating chemical product that plays a key role in numerous industries. Whether in the food industry, cosmetics production or in technical applications such as coolants and brake fluids - the versatility of propylene glycol is almost limitless. But what makes this substance so special? In this blog article, we take a deep dive into the world of propylene glycol to shed light on its benefits, chemical composition and key applications.

Close-up of a molecular model with red, white, black and grey spheres held together by grey connecting pieces. The spheres are connected to each other at different angles.

Chemical composition and production

Propylene glycol is a dihydric alcohol with the chemical formula C₃H₈O₂. It is a colourless, almost odourless liquid that is hygroscopic, i.e. it attracts water. Industrially, propylene glycol is mainly produced by the hydrolysis of propylene oxide. This process can be carried out either without a catalyst at high temperatures (200-220°C) or with a catalyst at lower temperatures (150-180°C). The end product contains around 20% propylene glycol, which is further purified by distillation.

Areas of application for propylene glycol

Close-up of various types of bread in a rustic arrangement. In the foreground, a dark loaf of bread sprinkled with sesame seeds and a wooden bowl with light-coloured bread rolls, also with sesame seeds. More bread in the background.

Food and beverage industry

Propylene glycol is mainly used in the food industry as a humectant, solvent and carrier. It contributes to the stability and shelf life of products by binding moisture and thus preventing them from drying out. A well-known example is its use in baked goods, creams and desserts. It is also used as a carrier for flavourings and colourings.

A woman in front of a mirror, her head wrapped in a white towel, wears a golden eye mask under her right eye. Her reflection shows a similar scene with the mask under her left eye. She is smiling slightly.

Pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications

Propylene glycol is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its low toxicity and high tolerability for the human body. It serves as a base for ointments, creams and other topical preparations. In the cosmetics industry, it is used in moisturisers, deodorants and hair sprays as it helps to hydrate the skin and distribute ingredients evenly.

A man holds an e-cigarette in front of him and smokes. His thumb is pointing upwards. Smoke surrounds his head and body. He has brown hair combed back and is wearing a dark blue long-sleeved shirt against a dark background.

Tobacco and e-cigarette industry

Propylene glycol is a key ingredient in e-liquids for e-cigarettes, as it is responsible for the "throat hit" and also carries flavours. It is also used as a humectant in water pipe tobacco to ensure a pleasant smoking experience.

Several rectangular solar modules are mounted on posts. Green trees and a blue sky with white, puffy clouds can be seen in the background.

Technical applications

Technical propylene glycol is used in a variety of industrial processes. It serves as an antifreeze in cooling systems, including solar and heating systems, and is an important component of brake fluids. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it can also be used in coolants to prevent the growth of microorganisms.

Two hands hold a brown glass bottle and a spoon. One hand pours a pink-coloured liquid from the bottle onto the spoon. The liquid drips gently onto the surface of the spoon. The background is blurred and bright.

Medical care

Propylene glycol is often used in medical products such as cough syrups, toothpaste and mouthwash. It helps to improve the consistency of the products and increase their stability. In skin care, it is valued for its moisturising properties.

Advantages of propylene glycol

High solubility: Propylene glycol is completely soluble in water and can also be dissolved in alcohol. This property makes it an ideal solvent for a wide range of substances, from medicines to flavours and dyes.

Safety and compatibility: Compared to other glycols such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol is non-toxic and has a high skin compatibility. It is therefore a favoured choice in the cosmetics and food industries.

Moisture binding: As a hygroscopic substance, propylene glycol can absorb and bind moisture from the surrounding air. This is particularly advantageous in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, where a constant supply of moisture is important.

Versatility: Propylene glycol has a wide range of applications. Whether as an antifreeze, in food production or in cosmetic products – its versatility makes it an indispensable substance in many industries.

Antimicrobial properties: Propylene glycol has naturally antimicrobial properties, which means that it can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. This is particularly important in products that require a long shelf life, such as coolants or cosmetic products.

A tranquil lake with clear, greenish water reflecting the autumn forest and mountains. Branches and leaves lie on the shore. Gentle, mist-covered mountain peaks rise up in the background.

Environmental friendliness and sustainability

Another advantage of propylene glycol is its relative environmental friendliness. It is biodegradable and has a lower toxicity to aquatic organisms compared to other glycols. It can also be produced from renewable raw materials such as glycerine, a by-product of biodiesel production, which further increases its sustainability.

Two hands hold a handful of soil with a small plant growing from it. The plant has two green leaves on a thin stem. The background is a green veil of leaves.

Instructions for use and safety aspects

Despite its many benefits and high tolerability, caution is advised when handling propylene glycol. In technical applications, care should be taken to ensure that the product does not enter the environment, as it can be harmful in high concentrations despite its biodegradability. Furthermore, it should not be inhaled or swallowed in large quantities as it can lead to health problems.

Conclusion: Propylene glycol - an indispensable all-rounder

Propylene glycol is an incredibly versatile substance that plays an important role in many industries. Its chemical properties, coupled with its high compatibility and versatility, make it an indispensable ingredient in the production of food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products and technical applications.

Despite its numerous benefits, it is important to keep an eye on the environmental and safety aspects to ensure responsible use. With its wide range of applications and benefits, propylene glycol is a true all-rounder that has become an indispensable part of modern industry.

Flat arrangement of care products and natural elements on white. Cream in jars, a green serum, split coconuts, wooden spoons with coarse salt, green twigs and grey stones.

" Back to the blog