Propylene glycol (IUPAC name: propane-1, 2-diol) is a viscous, colorless liquid, which is nearly odorless but possesses a faintly sweet taste. Its chemical formula is CH3CH(OH)CH2OH. Containing two alcohol groups, it is classed as a diol. It is miscible with a broad range of solvents, including water, acetone, and chloroform. In general, glycols are non-irritating and have very low volatility.
| Appearance | Colourless liquid |
| Odor | odorless |
| Density | 1.036 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | −59 °C (−74 °F; 214 K) |
| Boiling point | 188.2 °C (370.8 °F; 461.3 K) |
| Solubility in water | Miscible |
| Solubility in ethanol | Miscible |
| Solubility in diethyl ether | Miscible |
| Solubility in acetone | Miscible |
| Solubility in chloroform | Miscible |
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. Propylene glycol is also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire-fighting training and in theatrical productions.
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