Monoglykol

Monoglykol, also known as monopropylene glycol or propylene glycol, is a synthetic organic compound with the chemical formula C3H8O2. It is a viscous, colorless liquid that is nearly odorless but possesses a faintly sweet taste. Monoglykol is miscible with a broad range of solvents, including water, acetone, and chloroform.

Industrially, monoglykol is produced through the hydration of propylene oxide. Its versatile properties make it a widely used ingredient in numerous applications. In the food industry, it functions as a humectant, solvent, and preservative, often found in baked goods, flavorings, and processed foods. It is also employed as a solvent for food colorings and emulsifiers.

In the pharmaceutical sector, monoglykol serves as a solvent and carrier for active ingredients in oral, injectable, and topical medications. Its low toxicity and ability to dissolve a variety of substances make it a valuable excipient. Furthermore, it is used in cosmetics and personal care products, such as lotions, shampoos, and deodorants, as a moisturizer and humectant.

Monoglykol also finds application in the manufacturing of unsaturated polyester resins, which are used in fiberglass-reinforced plastics. It is also a component in antifreeze and de-icing fluids due to its low freezing point. While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies for food and pharmaceutical use, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.