Propylene glycol

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Image:Propylene glycol chemical structure.png

Propylene glycol (C₃H₈O₂; CAS no. 57-55-6), also known as 1,2-propanediol, is a chemical compound (a diol alcohol), usually a tasteless, odorless, and colorless clear oily liquid that is hygroscopic and miscible with water. Its molar mass is 74 g/mol.

Propylene glycol is used:

as a moisturizer to maintain moisture in medicines, cosmetics, food, and tobacco products,
As a flavoring agent in Angostura and Orange bitters
As a solvent for food colors and flavourings
As a humectant food additive, labeled as E number E1520
As a carrier in fragrance oils
As a food grade antifreeze
In smoke machines to make artificial smoke for use in firefighters' training and theatrical productions
In hand sanitizers, antibacterial lotions, and saline solutions
As a main ingredient in many cosmetic products, including baby wipes, bubble baths, and shampoos
As the primary ingredient in the "Paint" inside a Paintball
As a base ingredient in aircraft deicing fluid and some automobile antifreezes
In cryonics

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Safety

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined propylene glycol to be "generally recognized as safe" for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines. Similar to ethylene glycol, propylene glycol affects the body's chemistry by increasing the amount of acid, potentially glycol is metabolized by the body into lactic acid, which occurs naturally as muscles are exercised, while ethylene glycol is metabolized into oxalic acid, which is toxic.

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