MPG - Mono Propylene Glycol

About This Product

Mono propylene glycol, MPG, propylene glycol or propane-1,2-diol (CAS 57-55-6, EC 200-338-0, formula C3H8O2), is a clear, colourless, nearly odourless, slightly viscous liquid that is fully miscible with water. It is made by hydrating propylene oxide, and a growing share is also made by hydrogenolysis of glycerine. It boils at about 188 °C, is hygroscopic and has low toxicity, which is the main reason it replaces ethylene glycol wherever people, food or animals may be exposed. MPG is traded in two main qualities. Industrial grade, often simply called technical, is used in resins, antifreeze, heat-transfer fluids and de-icing. USP or EP grade is tested to the United States or European Pharmacopoeia monograph, with limits on water, residue on ignition, heavy metals and ethylene and diethylene glycol, and is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care. Food grade (E1520) is a separate product with its own purity criteria and documents; confirm which grade is offered before use in a regulated product. In unsaturated polyester resins, MPG is a core diol that gives good compatibility with styrene and balanced flexibility in boat hulls, tanks and cast products. As an antifreeze and heat-transfer fluid it protects systems where leakage could reach food, drinking water or livestock, such as brewery chillers, food processing, ground-source heat pumps and solar thermal circuits. It is a major component of aircraft de-icing fluids. In cosmetics and personal care it acts as a humectant, solvent and penetration enhancer in creams, lotions, deodorants and hair products, and it serves as a carrier for fragrances and colours. The parameters buyers agree are assay (typically 99.5% minimum), water, colour on the Pt-Co scale, density or specific gravity, acidity, and for pharmacopoeia grades residue on ignition and ethylene and diethylene glycol limits. Agree the grade and limits in writing and check each certificate of analysis against them. MPG is not classified as hazardous under CLP and is not regulated as dangerous goods for transport, but check sections 2 and 14 of the safety data sheet. For imports into the EU or Great Britain, ask which company's REACH or UK REACH registration covers the import and your use. For cosmetic, pharmaceutical or food use, ask for the relevant grade statement and conformity documents. Store MPG in closed stainless steel, aluminium or lined mild steel containers in a dry area, because it absorbs moisture from the air. It is combustible, with a flash point around 99 °C, so keep it away from ignition sources and strong oxidisers. When you enquire, state the grade (industrial or USP/EP), the application, key limits such as assay, water and glycol impurities, the pack format (drum, IBC, flexitank or ISO tank), your volumes, the destination and your Incoterms.