Propylene carbonate

Propylene carbonate (CAS 108-32-7), commonly abbreviated as PC, is a cyclic carbonate solvent used across energy, electronics, and personal care manufacturing. It dissolves a broad range of polar and nonpolar compounds. This material is a preferred carrier in formulations where low volatility and high solvency are both required. In lithium-ion battery electrolytes, PC functions as a primary solvent or co-solvent, supporting ion transport.

It performs exceptionally well at low temperatures where other solvents underperform. Personal care formulators incorporate it as a solvent and humectant in skin creams, hair treatments, and color cosmetics. The compound aids active ingredient penetration without leaving a greasy residue. The oil and gas industry uses PC as a solvent for natural gas purification, specifically for selective absorption of CO₂ and H₂S.

This is utilized in the Fluor Solvent process for efficient gas treatment. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as a non-aqueous carrier in topical and oral formulations where aqueous systems are incompatible. Propylene carbonate is supplied as a clear liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tankers. Standard commercial grades include technical and high-purity specifications, with the battery-grade variant subject to strict limits.

The battery-grade material must meet rigorous moisture and metal ion requirements. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP and Ph. Eur. compendial standards for regulated applications.