Propylene Glycol

1Identification

Name

Propylene Glycol

IUPAC name

propane-1,2-diol

CAS number

57-55-6 (also reported: 25322-68-3, 63625-56-9)

EC number

200-338-0

Molecular formula

C3H8O2

Molecular weight

76.09 g/mol

InChIKey

DNIAPMSPPWPWGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CC(CO)O

PubChem CID

1030

Synonyms

propylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, propane-1,2-diol, 1,2-Propylene glycol, 1,2-dihydroxypropane, 2-Hydroxypropanol, Isopropylene glycol, Dowfrost, Sirlene, Methylethyl glycol, Methylethylene glycol, Monopropylene glycol, Trimethyl glycol, Propylene Glycol USP

Recommended uses

• CIR ingredient: PPG-12
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• CIR ingredient: PPG-15
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• CIR ingredient: PPG-17
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• Plasticizer Fragrance Flux agent Corrosion inhibitor Waterproofing agent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Diluent Soil amendments (fertilizers) Emulsifier Anti-stain agent Viscosity modifiers Preservative Stabilizing agent Film former Intermediate Hardener Chelating agent Pigment Etching agent Dye Humectant Defoamer Surface modifier Anti-adhesive/cohesive Flavoring and nutrient Anti-freeze agent Solvent Dispersing agent Lubricating agent CBI Other Monomers Tanning agents not otherwise specified Surfactant (surface active agent) Processing aids not otherwise specified Solubility enhancer Heat transferring agent Plating agent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Heat transferring agent Surfactant (surface active agent) Tanning agents not otherwise specified Monomers Solubility enhancer Processing aids not otherwise specified Lubricating agent Freeze-thaw additive Binder Other Anti-freeze agent Flavoring and nutrient Anti-adhesive/cohesive Dispersing agent Solvent Coalescing agent Dye Surface modifier Humectant Heat stabilizer Intermediate Adhesion/cohesion promoter Pigment Viscosity modifiers Emulsifier Anti-stain agent Soil amendments (fertilizers) Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Corrosion inhibitor Stabilizing agent Plasticizer Cleaning agent Brightener Fragrance
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Enzymes and Enzyme Stabilizers;Solvents · Safer Chemical Classes -> Green half-circle - The chemical is expected to be of low concern · Food additives · Fragrance Ingredients

Description

• Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water. Propylene glycol is also used to make polyester compounds, and as a base for deicing solutions. Propylene glycol is used by the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries as an antifreeze when leakage might lead to contact with food. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as an additive that is "generally recognized as safe" for use in food. It is used to absorb extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics, or food products. It is a solvent for food colors and flavors, and in the paint and plastics industries.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Thick odorless colorless liquid. Mixes with water. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Propane-1,2-diol is the simplest member of the class of propane-1,2-diols, consisting of propane in which a hydrogen at position 1 and a hydrogen at position 2 are substituted by hydroxy groups. A colourless, viscous, hygroscopic, low-melting (59C) and high-boiling (188C) liquid with low toxicity, it is used as a solvent, emulsifying agent, and antifreeze. It has a role as a protic solvent, an allergen, a mouse metabolite and a human xenobiotic metabolite. It is a glycol and a member of propane-1,2-diols.
  ChEBI

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS07, GHS08

Classification source

NITE-CMC

Precautionary statements

NFPA 704 rating

• 0 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, would offer no hazard beyond that of ordinary combustible materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1 - Materials that must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Liquid may irritate eyes. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals

Fire hazards

• This chemical is combustible. (NTP, 1992)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Combustible.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water. Propylene glycol is also used to make polyester compounds, and as a base for deicing solutions. Propylene glycol is used by the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries as an antifreeze when leakage might lead to contact with food. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as an additive that is "generally recognized as safe" for use in food. It is used to absorb extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics, or food products. It is a solvent for food colors and flavors, and in the paint and plastics industries.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Propylene glycol is designated by the FDA as GRAS (generally recognized as safe) for use as a food additive. It is commonly used in cosmetics and topical medications. Patch testing with propylene glycol is difficult because of irritant effects. It may cause allergic contact dermatitis in a small percentage of cases. It may also cause non-immunologic contact urticaria. [Marks, p. 156-7] Allergic contact dermatitis in a photographic developer using Flexicolor; [Kanerva, p. 1830] An eye irritant; [ICSC] Oral LD50 = 21,000 mg/kg in dogs; Causes CNS depression and coma in high-dose, animal-feeding studies; [AIHA] See Ethylene glycol.
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Symptoms of exposure

• Dry throat. Cough.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Dryness of eyes. Pain. Itching.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• See Effects of short-term exposure
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Water fog, alcohol foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• In case of fire, keep drums, etc, cool by spraying water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Spill cleanup

• Absorb liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Wash away spilled liquid with plenty of water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Separated from strong oxidants and alkalis. Dry. Well closed. Ventilation along the floor.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Propylene glycol is hygroscopic and should be stored in a well-closed container, protected from light, in a cool, dry place.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, and tripropylene glycol are stable materials that require no special handling procedures. They are noncorrosive and can be transported or stored in stainless steel, aluminum, and lined steel containers. Carbon steel is also acceptable, although slight iron contamination may occur upon extended periods of storage. U.S.P.-grade propylene glycol is typically stored in stainless steel.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

No occupational exposure limits found in our sources.

Personal protective equipment

• Goggles. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Protective gloves, safety spectacles.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• PROPYLENE GLYCOL is hygroscopic. It is sensitive to excessive heat (tends to oxidize at high temperatures). This compound can react with oxidizing materials. It is incompatible with acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, chloroformates, and reducing agents. It dissolves many essential oils. A mixture of this compound with hydrofluoric acid and silver nitrate was put in a glass bottle which burst 30 minutes later. (NTP, 1992)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Water soluble.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Reacts with strong oxidants, causing fire hazard.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Propylene glycol is incompatible with oxidizing reagents such as potassium permanganate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• No significantly dangerous substances are produced after contact with light, humidity or commonly available chemicals. Propylene glycol may react with hydrofluoric acid + nitric acid + silver nitrate to form the explosive silver fulminate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• At cool temperatures, propylene glycol is stable in a well-closed container, but at high temperatures, in the open, it tends to oxidize, giving rise to products such as propionaldehyde, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, and acetic acid. Propylene glycol is chemically stable when mixed with ethanol (95%), glycerin, or water; aqueous solutions may be sterilized by autoclaving.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is mildly irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. Ingestion of large amounts could cause metabolic acidosis.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Carcinogen classification

• No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
  Toxin and Toxin Target Database (T3DB)

12Ecological information

Environmental fate

• Propylene glycol's production and use as an antifreeze in breweries and dairy establishments, substitute for ethylene glycol and glycerol, in the manufacture of synthetic resins, emulsifier in foods, solvent for food colors and flavors, and pharmaceutic aid (humectant, solvent) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use to create artificial smoke and mist for theatrical use, as an airplane de-icing fluid and in aerosol mists that are commonly used in hospitals and public buildings for disinfection purposes will result in its direct release to the environment.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Ecotoxicity

• EC50; Species: Selenastrum capricornutum (green algae); Concentration: 19,000 mg/L for 96 hr; Effect: 14-day growth rate /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• EC50; Species: Selenastrum capricornutum (green algae); Concentration: 18,100 mg/L for 14 days; Effect: 14-day growth rate /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age 6-24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0; Concentration: >10000000 ug/L for 24, 48 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /formulation/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

13Disposal considerations

• SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 14 of the supplier's SDS.

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Propylene glycol is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of propylene glycol are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest. Use: solvent, cosolvent.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• The Agency has completed its assessment of the dietary, drinking water, residential, ecological and occupational risks associated with the use of pesticide products containing the active ingredients propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol. Based on a review of these data, the Agency has sufficient information on the human health and ecological effects of propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol to make a decision as part of the tolerance reassessment process under FFDCA and reregistration under FIFRA, as amended by FQPA. The Agency has determined that propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol containing products are eligible for reregistration.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Substance added directly to human food affirmed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 1030 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.