C3H8O2

C3H8O2 is the molecular formula for several chemical compounds, all of which are isomers. This means they share the same number of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms but differ in their structural arrangement. The most common isomers with this formula are propane-1,2-diol and propane-1,3-diol, also known as propylene glycol and trimethylene glycol, respectively.

Propane-1,2-diol, the more widely known isomer, is a viscous, colorless liquid that is nearly odorless but possesses a faintly sweet taste. It is miscible with water, alcohol, and acetone. This compound is produced industrially through the hydration of propylene oxide. Propane-1,2-diol finds extensive use as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in a vast array of products, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and antifreeze. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used as a food additive.

Propane-1,3-diol is also a colorless liquid, though it is less viscous than its isomer and has a slightly higher boiling point. It is also miscible with water and many organic solvents. Propane-1,3-diol can be synthesized through various methods, including the hydration of acrolein or through biotechnological routes involving the fermentation of renewable resources. Its applications include use as a solvent, a component in polyesters and polyurethanes, and in personal care products. While less common than propane-1,2-diol, it is gaining traction as a bio-based alternative.