Dipropylene Glycol, DPG, 25265-71-8

Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) – Industrial Applications and Safety Profile

General Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: C6H14O3

• Molecular Weight: ~134.17 g/mol

• Structure: 1,1′-oxybis[propan-2-ol] (two propanol molecules linked by an ether bridge)

• Physical Properties: Colorless, nearly odorless, hygroscopic liquid

• The CAS number you mentioned — 25265-71-8 — corresponds to Dipropylene Glycol (DPG).

DPG is widely used as a solvent, humectant, and carrier. Its ability to mix with both water and oils makes it valuable in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes.

Applications

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Moisturizer (Humectant): Helps maintain skin hydration.

• Solvent & Carrier: Ensures even distribution of active ingredients and enhances skin penetration.

• Perfumes: Stabilizes fragrance compounds and acts as a carrier.

• Hair Care: Used in shampoos, conditioners, and bath gels; improves texture and combability.

• Viscosity Regulator: Adjusts product consistency for ease of application.

2. Food Industry

• Sweeteners: Functions as a solvent in artificial sweetener formulations.

• Flavors & Colorants: Ensures uniform mixing and stability in food additives.

3. Industrial Uses

• Chemical Industry: Solvent in paints, varnishes, adhesives.

• Plastics: Acts as a plasticizer, enhancing flexibility and durability.

• Pharmaceuticals: Solvent and stabilizer, extending shelf life.

• Textiles: Solvent in dyeing and finishing processes.

• Water Treatment: Used in pH regulators and treatment chemicals.

• Automotive & HVAC: Antifreeze and coolant additive, lowering freezing point.

Safety and Toxicity

• General Toxicity: Low; not classified as carcinogenic.

• Skin Contact: May cause mild dryness or irritation.

• Eye Contact: Can cause irritation; rinse thoroughly with water if exposed.

• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek medical advice.

• Acute Cases: Rare reports of acute renal failure or contact dermatitis.

• Chronic Exposure: Limited data; precautionary measures recommended.

Environmental Impact and Regulations

• Environmental Risk: Generally low, but toxic by-products (ethylene oxide, dioxins) may form during production.

• Regulations: Controlled under various international standards. In Turkey, SEA Regulation (28848/2013) does not assign specific hazard classifications, but ongoing risk assessments are required.

Research and Future Outlook

• Innovation: Broad solvent spectrum enables new sustainable applications.

• Market Growth: Rising demand in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals indicates strong expansion potential.

• Sustainability: Focus on eco-friendly production methods and reduced environmental footprint.

Health and Consumer Recommendations

• Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR): Considered safe for cosmetic use.

• Possible Reactions: Rare allergic responses (redness, itching, dermatitis).

• Consumer Advice:

  • Always check product labels.

  • Follow manufacturer’s usage guidelines.

  • Perform patch tests on sensitive skin before full use.

Synonyms and Trade Names

• Dipropylene glycol

• Oxybispropanol

• Dowanol DPG

• Diisopropylene glycol

• ADK DPG-RF, DPG-FC, DPG-RF

• A 33

Conclusion: Dipropylene Glycol is a versatile, low-toxicity chemical widely used across industries. Its humectant and solvent properties make it indispensable in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. While generally safe, proper handling and protective measures are essential, especially in large-scale or long-term exposure scenarios.