Propylene Carbonate

Propylene Carbonate, a colorless, odorless, and slightly viscous liquid with the chemical formula C₄H₆O₃, derives from propylene glycol as a cyclic carbonate ester. Known for its excellent solvency power, high boiling point, and low toxicity, this versatile solvent is synthesized by reacting propylene oxide with carbon dioxide, forming a five-membered ring molecule containing a carbonate group. As a polar, aprotic solvent, propylene carbonate, although chiral, is typically used in its racemic mixture form. With low vapor pressure and minimal photochemical reactivity, it serves as a safer alternative to more hazardous solvents like MEK, methylene chloride, toluene, acetone, NMP, and perchloroethylene. We are importer & supplier of propylene carbonate in India, kindly contact us for price.

Propylene Carbonate
Propylene Carbonate

General Information

  • Chemical Name: Propylene Carbonate
  • CAS Number: 108-32-7
  • Chemical Formula: C₄H₆O₃
  • Molecular Weight: 102.09 g/mol
  • Appearance: Clear, colorless, odorless, and slightly viscous liquid
  • Odor: Mild, odorless to faint odor
  • Other Names: 4-Methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one, Cyclic propylene carbonate, Carbonic acid propylene ester, Cyclic 1,2-propylene carbonate, Propylene glycol cyclic carbonate & few more.

 

Chemical and Physical Properties

  • Purity: 99.99%
  • Boiling Point: 240°C (464°F)
  • Melting Point: -48°C (-54.4°F)
  • Density: 1.2 g/cm³ at 20°C
  • Vapor Pressure: 0.13 mmHg at 25°C
  • Viscosity: Approximately 2.5 cP at 25°C
  • Refractive Index: 1.420 at 20°C
  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water, alcohols, ethers, and many organic solvents
  • Flash Point: 135°C (275°F)
  • Auto-ignition Temperature: 455°C (851°F)
  • Solubility: It is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents.

 

Uses / Applications of Propylene Carbonate

It is indeed a versatile solvent with a wide range of applications. Here’s a quick summary of its uses:

  1. Solvent: Commonly used for polymers, resins, and oils, and in paints, coatings, and adhesives.
  2. Inks: Effective in dissolving ingredients and cleaning inks, with low VOCs and toxicity.
  3. Electrolytes in Batteries: Key component in lithium-ion batteries due to its high dielectric constant and stability.
  4. Cosmetics and Personal Care: Used as a solvent and plasticizer in products like lipsticks, nail polish, and skin care items.
  5. Chemical Intermediate: Utilized in the synthesis of other chemical compounds.
  6. Cleaning Products: Found in degreasers and paint strippers.
  7. Pharmaceuticals: Acts as a solvent and excipient in drug formulations.
  8. Paints and Coatings: Enhances flow and application properties.
  9. Degreasing & Oil Cleaning: Effective in removing grease and oil.
  10. Gas Extraction: Used for extracting carbon dioxide from natural gas.

 

Benefits & Properties of Propylene Carbonate

  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions, but may decompose when exposed to heat or flame.
  • Reactivity: It is not highly reactive but can undergo hydrolysis in the presence of strong acids or bases, leading to the formation of propylene glycol and carbon dioxide.
  • Dielectric Constant: 64.4 at 25°C, which makes it a good solvent for electrolytes in battery applications.
  • Biodegradability: It is considered biodegradable and has a low potential for bioaccumulation.
  • Low Toxicity: Safe for use in many industrial processes, reducing health and environmental risks.
  • High Boiling Point: Enhances its stability and effectiveness in high-temperature applications.
  • Excellent Solvency: Capable of dissolving a wide range of substances, making it ideal for use in formulations.
  • VOC-exempt solvent: PC does not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or is exempt from regulations concerning VOCs. Hence it is termed as environmentally friendly or low-emission solvent.

 

Packing, Storage and Handing

  1. Storage Conditions:
    • Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
    • Store in closed containers.
    • Avoid heat sources and direct sunlight.
  2. Handling Procedures:
    • Review and understand the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) before working with the material.
    • Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where the material is used.
  3. Packaging:
    • Typically packed in 200-kilogram barrels.
August 3, 2024 7:24 pm
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