propanediolit

propanediol, also known by the systematic designation 1,3-propanediol, is a colorless, hygroscopic liquid with the chemical formula C3H8O2. It contains two alcohol groups on a three‑carbon chain, giving it amphiphilic character that makes it valuable as both solvent and a building block for polymers. The molecule is produced industrially mainly by hydration of propiolic acid or by hydroxylation of propylene oxide, although more sustainable routes such as bio‑based fermentation of glycerol are increasingly employed. Commercial production quantities exceed several million tonnes per year worldwide, with China and the United States as leading producers.

The chemical’s low toxicity and biodegradable nature contribute to its appeal in consumer products. In the plastics industry propanediol is a key monomer for polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), an engineering polyester that offers high elongation and excellent dimensional stability. It is also used to synthesis dialkyl terephthalates and as a precursor for the synthesis of glycidyl ethers, which serve as plasticizers and epoxy resins. In the detergent and textile sectors, propanediol acts as a solvent for dyes and a humectant in fabric‑softening formulations. Its compatibility with other alcohols also makes it a useful component in certain solvent blends for coatings and inks.

Beyond industrial uses, propanediol finds application in personal‑care products, such as lotions and shampoos, where it serves as a penetration enhancer and an emulsifying agent. In the food and beverage sector it is employed as a solvent for food additives and in flavor formulations, its low sensory impact ensuring it does not alter taste or aroma. Because of its rheological properties, propanediol is sometimes used as a viscosity modifier in pharmaceutical preparations.

The environmental profile of propanediol is favorable compared to other diols. It can be biodegraded by microorganisms into carbon dioxide and water, and its production from renewable feedstocks reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Nevertheless, industrial handling must consider flammability and corrosion risks; therefore, appropriate safety and storage measures are standard. Advances in catalytic processes and bio‑derived routes aim to further lower its ecological footprint while maintaining the material’s versatility and functionality.