Friday, May 6, 2011

Propylene Glycol General Information

Propylene glycol is an organic diol with a chemical formula of C3H8O2 and a CAS number of 57-55-6. It is officially designated as propane-1,2-diol by IUPAC. Propylene glycol is thick, clear, and nearly odorless with a faintly sweet taste. It shares similarities with glycerin - hygroscopic, viscous, and soluble with water, acetone, and chloroform. 

Manufacture

Propylene glycol is usually sourced from propylene oxide. Manufacturing involves ion exchange resin or small amount of sulfuric acid or alkali, using either catalytic (150°-180°C) or non-catalytic high-temperature process (200°-220°C). Process will yield 20% propylene glycol, 1.5% dipropylene glycol, and other polypropylene glycols. Glycerol can be converted from propylene glycol as well. 

Usage

Propylene glycol is mixed in snacks, pastries, soda drinks, and ice cream. Its physical properties make it a suitable humectant (marketed as E1520) and preservative. It is also used as a cooling agent for wines, beers, and spirit while lengthens freezing time for food. Likewise, propylene glycol serves as a solvent for different pharmaceutical preparations like oral, injectable, and topical formulations. It is included in formulations of toiletry items such as shampoos, lotions, foundation, creams, and anti-perspirants. It adds moisture to toothpastes, mouth washes, and cigarettes because of its hygroscopic quality. Propylene glycol also serves as a carrier for perfume oils and soap bases. 

Because of its low acute oral toxicity, propylene glycol is used as antifreeze for heaters and water systems. Moreover, it is added to other household items like furniture polish and glass cleaners. Propylene glycol serves as a solvent for photographic chemicals.

Propylene glycol USP of Chemicals Direct is 99.9% propylene glycol and has been packaged in 1, 5 and 55 gallon containers. Product is manufactured in sterile environment to meet FDA and USDA requirements. It is safe for food, beverage, and medical use as well. Order online now! Product is in stock and ready to be shipped in 24 hours.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Food Grade Glycol

Food Grade Glycol is also marketed as propylene glycol USP and is approved for food and pharmaceutical use. Propane-1,2-diol in IUPAC nomenclature, it is an organic diol with a chemical formula of C3H8O2 and a CAS number of 57-55-6. Food grade glycol is a viscous, clear, and nearly odorless liquid and tastes faintly sweet. It shares similar characteristics with glycerin: hygroscopic, soluble with water, acetone, and chloroform. Food grade glycol has a specific boiling point of 188.2°C and a melting point of -59°C. It also has a vapor density of 2.6 (Air=1), a vapor pressure of 0.129 (25°C), and a specific gravity of 1.0361.

Food grade glycol is relatively non-toxic especially if used in minimal amounts. There is no known ill effect if inhaled. Some people may experience stomach upset or transient central nervous system failure while effects seem to be aggravated in patients suffering with kidney problems. Food grade glycol can also be a mild skin irritant and defatting agent especially with prolonged contact and may cause eye stinging and tearing. Long term consumption can lead to lactic acidosis, stupor, and seizures as reported.

Food grade Glycol is used in salad dressings, cake mixes, soft drinks, popcorn, food colorings, fat-free ice cream and sour cream. It also protects food from freezing and is used as a preservative.

Product is readily biodegradable and is expected to leach into groundwater after being released into the soil. It has a half-life of one to ten days when released into the air. Container should be protected from physical damage. Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight, heat, moisture and incompatible substances. Product container should be disposed off immediately for they may contain residues.

Food grade glycol of Chemicals Direct has been packaged in compliance with USP standards. Labeling a product or a substance as USP implies that it conforms to all the legal requirements of the FDA and that it was produced in accordance with the principles outlined in FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Products are available in different sizes and ready to be shipped within the day.