Propylene Carbonate

Propylene Carbonate (CAS No: 108-32-7) Supplier in Europe

Propylene carbonate is a versatile, colorless, and odorless chemical compound with significant industrial applications.

Widely used as a solvent, it plays a crucial role in the production of plastics, resins, and cosmetics.

Its non-toxic and biodegradable properties make it an environmentally friendly choice for various industries.

In the electronics sector, propylene carbonate serves as an essential component in lithium-ion batteries.

It helps in enhancing the overall performance and efficiency of these batteries, which are vital for powering modern gadgets.

Additionally, the compound’s high solvency power makes it an excellent choice for coatings and adhesives, ensuring effective application and durability.

In the realm of sustainable technologies, the significance of propylene carbonate is especially prominent.

Its application in carbon capture and storage technology reflects its potential in reducing environmental impact.

Propylene carbonate represents a critical element in developing eco-conscious solutions and fostering innovation across diverse fields.

Chemical Properties

Propylene carbonate exhibits distinct chemical properties including its molecular structure and characteristic physical state. It also features specific boiling and melting points that make it useful in various industrial applications.

Molecular Structure

Propylene carbonate, with the chemical formula C₄H₆O₃, is a cyclic carbonate ester.

This compound incorporates a five-membered ring comprising three carbon, one oxygen, and one carbonyl group. The molecular weight is approximately 102.09 g/mol.

The presence of the carbonate group contributes to its polarity, making it a suitable solvent for various applications.

Its structural formula can be visualized as:

• CH₃-CH-CH₂-CO₃H

This configuration contributes to its stability and reactivity under different conditions.

Physical State

At room temperature, propylene carbonate appears as a colorless and odorless liquid.

Its viscosity is relatively low, which facilitates its use as a solvent in various chemical reactions and formulations.

It is compatible with a wide range of substances, enhancing its versatility in different industries.

Density: Around 1.20 g/cm³
Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohols, and numerous organic solvents.

These characteristics make it particularly valuable in fields such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and coatings.

Boiling and Melting Points

The boiling point of propylene carbonate is about 242°C (467.6°F), while its melting point is approximately -49°C (-56.2°F).

These thermal properties allow it to function effectively under diverse environmental conditions, especially in processes requiring high temperatures.

Such a substantial range between the melting and boiling points indicates a stable liquid state over a broad temperature spectrum.

This thermal stability is useful in applications like battery electrolytes and plasticizers where temperature variations are common.

The extensive liquid range supports its use in high-temperature processes without degradation or evaporation, maintaining its efficacy as a solvent or reaction medium.

Industrial Applications

Propylene carbonate is a versatile chemical used widely in industrial processes. Its diverse applications span multiple industries, including its roles as a solvent, an electrolyte component, and its use in polymer and personal care product production.

Solvent Uses

Propylene carbonate serves as an effective solvent in various applications due to its low volatility and high polarity.

It is commonly employed in the pharmaceutical industry, where it helps dissolve active ingredients in drug formulations.

In coatings and paints, it aids in achieving the desired consistency and stability, ensuring a smooth application.

Its role in chemical synthesis involves facilitating reactions by acting as a medium that optimizes conditions for chemical interactions.

As an environmentally friendly option, it is favored in situations where low toxicity is required.

Electrolyte Component in Batteries

Used in lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries, propylene carbonate functions as a component of the electrolyte.

It helps improve the battery’s stability and performance, contributing to longer cycle lives and better capacity retention.

The solvent’s high dielectric constant supports ion conductivity, essential for efficient energy storage and release.

The low flammability of propylene carbonate makes it a safer option in battery usage, reducing potential risks associated with thermal runaway.

This characteristic is particularly valued in consumer electronics and electric vehicles, where safety and efficiency are critical.

Polymer Production

Polymer production benefits from propylene carbonate’s role as an intermediate and additive.

It is used in the manufacture of polyurethane and other polymeric materials, where it acts as a plasticizer, enhancing flexibility and durability.

Propylene carbonate also facilitates the polymerization process by optimizing conditions for creating structured, high-molecular weight polymers.

Its capability to provide a favorable environment for reactions helps manufacturers achieve desired material properties efficiently.

It supports the creation of both rigid and flexible polymer forms, accommodating a wide range of industrial needs.

Personal Care Products

In personal care products, propylene carbonate functions as a solvent and viscosity regulator. Its ability to dissolve and stabilize active ingredients makes it a valuable component in formulations such as skin creams, lotions, and cosmetics.

It enhances texture and consistency, ensuring pleasant application experiences for consumers.

Propylene carbonate’s low toxicity and skin-friendly nature allow its inclusion in sensitive formulations, addressing consumer concerns about product safety.

Moreover, its non-greasy finish is appreciated in leave-on products, contributing to more desirable aesthetic outcomes in personal care items.