Propylene glycol

1,2-Propylene glycol is an important raw material for unsaturated polyester, epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, plasticizers, and surfactants. Its consumption in this area accounts for about 45% of the total consumption of propylene glycol. This type of unsaturated polyester is widely used in surface coatings and reinforced plastics. 1,2-Propylene glycol has good viscosity and hygroscopicity, making it widely used as a humectant, antifreeze, lubricant, and solvent in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries. In the food industry, 1,2-propylene glycol reacts with fatty acids to form propylene glycol fatty acid esters, which are mainly used as food emulsifiers. 1,2-Propylene glycol is an excellent solvent for flavorings and pigments. Due to its low toxicity, it is used as a solvent for fragrances and food colorings in the food industry. In the pharmaceutical industry, 1,2-propylene glycol is commonly used as a solvent, softener, and excipient in the production of various ointments and creams. It is also used as a blending agent, preservative, and solvent for vitamins, penicillin, and other pharmaceuticals. Due to its good miscibility with various fragrances, it is also used as a solvent and softener in cosmetics. 1,2-Propylene glycol is also used as a tobacco humectant, antifungal agent, lubricant for food processing equipment, and solvent for food-grade inks. Aqueous solutions of 1,2-propylene glycol are effective antifreeze agents. It is also used as a tobacco wetting agent, antifungal agent, fruit ripening and preservative agent, antifreeze, and heat transfer fluid.