Preservation ChemicalsIn Stock

Propylene Glycol

Name: Zenco Systems Ltd - Chemical Division
Address: Industrial Area, Enterprise Road, KCB Building, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254114591982
Price range: KES

Propylene Glycol is a versatile, food-grade chemical used in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals across East Africa.

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Packaging

5L, 10L, 20L, and 200L plastic containers

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Propylene Glycol?

Industrial formulations in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics frequently encounter challenges with moisture retention, solvent compatibility, and product stability under diverse environmental conditions. Propylene Glycol solves these issues by acting as a reliable solvent, humectant, and carrier fluid.

Propylene Glycol (1,2-Propanediol) is a colorless, nearly odorless, and hygroscopic liquid with a mild sweet taste. It is widely recognized and used for its ability to blend seamlessly with water and various organic solvents, aiding the formulation in preserving product integrity and texture.

Across East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics manufacturing, and chemical production depend heavily on this compound. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies propylene glycol conforming to USP food-grade standards, ensuring the highest purity needed for sensitive industrial and commercial applications in the region. Dependable supply chains and regulatory compliance maintained by Zenco make it a trusted source for buyers in these markets.

Propylene Glycol: Detailed Product Overview

Propylene Glycol’s chemical formula is C3H8O2 and it carries the CAS number 57-55-6. As a synthetic organic compound belonging to the diol family, it contains two hydroxyl groups, which make it both hygroscopic and highly miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform. These properties allow it to draw and retain moisture efficiently, a key benefit in many preservation and formulation contexts.

Its molecular structure balances polarity and hydrophilicity, permitting it to act as a solvent for a wide range of substances that are poorly soluble in pure water. This solvent capability assists in dissolving active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and flavor compounds in food and personal care products. Furthermore, its low volatility and non-toxicity make it preferable over other glycols like ethylene glycol, particularly when product safety is non-negotiable.

Because propylene glycol is classified as food-grade and USP compliant, it undergoes stringent purification to eliminate toxic impurities and contaminants. This makes it suitable for direct human contact in cosmetics and oral ingestion in food and drug applications. Its ability to stabilize emulsions and prevent microbial growth through moisture control further enhances its performance across multiple industries.

From a handling perspective, propylene glycol is chemically stable under typical storage conditions but is flammable at elevated temperatures due to its organic nature. Proper ventilation, storage in tightly sealed containers away from ignition sources, and use of protective gloves are standard practice when handling. Zenco Systems Ltd ensures that supplied batches meet both purity claims and relevant regulatory guidelines to support safe, effective use in Kenya and the broader East African market.

Applications and Uses of Propylene Glycol

Food Processing

In food manufacturing, propylene glycol functions primarily as a humectant and solvent. It helps retain moisture in baked goods, confectionery, and frostings, prolonging shelf life while maintaining texture. Its solvent properties assist in dispersing flavors and colorants uniformly. Because it meets food-grade USP standards, it is safe for indirect ingestion, making it invaluable in flavor emulsions, ice creams, and processed fruit products where moisture and solubility control are key.

Cosmetics Manufacturing

Propylene glycol is widely used in personal care formulations as a humectant and carrier for active ingredients such as vitamins, preservatives, and fragrance oils. It prevents lotions, creams, and gels from drying out and improves product texture by enabling smooth blending of water and oils. Its low skin irritation potential makes it suitable for sensitive skin products, and it also helps stabilize emulsions for longer product stability.

Pharmaceutical Solvents

In pharmaceutical production, propylene glycol serves as a solvent and stabilizer for liquid formulations, topical creams, and injectables. It dissolves APIs insoluble in water and improves bioavailability of drugs by facilitating absorption. Its compatibility with many oral and parenteral products, paired with low toxicity and compliance with USP grade requirements, make it essential for safe and effective drug formulations.

Humectants in Personal Care Products

Its hygroscopic nature allows propylene glycol to maintain moisture on the skin or hair when used in shampoos, deodorants, and moisturizers. By drawing water into these products, it prevents dryness and flaking, enhancing comfort and aesthetic appeal. This function is critical in East African climates where humidity varies widely, affecting product performance.

Chemical Intermediates

Propylene glycol is foundational in synthesizing polymers, resins, and plasticizers. Its bifunctional hydroxyl groups provide reactive sites for chemical modifications, enabling the creation of flexible, durable materials. This application supports industries producing coatings, adhesives, and antifreeze additives, where robust chemical intermediates are required.

Antifreeze and De-Icing Fluids

Its low freezing point and non-toxicity make propylene glycol an ideal base for antifreeze formulations used in automotive and industrial cooling systems. It lowers the freezing point of aqueous solutions preventing ice formation, while its chemical stability ensures long service life. Additionally, it is favored for de-icing applications where environmental and human safety are prioritized.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Preservation Chemicals range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Food Safety Compliance

Because the propylene glycol supplied is USP and food-grade compliant, it meets the highest purity and safety benchmarks. This benefits buyers formulating edible and topical products by reducing concerns over toxic impurities or regulatory non-compliance, directly supporting consistent product quality and consumer safety.

Versatile Solvent and Humectant

Its chemical properties allow it to interact well with both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds, which means formulators can use it to dissolve a wide range of ingredients seamlessly. This versatility reduces the need for multiple solvents, streamlining formulation and lowering production complexity.

Reliable Regional Supply

Zenco Systems Ltd provides consistent stock of propylene glycol throughout Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the broader East African region. This reliability in supply chain minimises industrial downtime and production delays, critical for manufacturers who rely on timely chemical deliveries.

Improved Product Stability

By retaining moisture and stabilizing active ingredients through its solvent and humectant roles, propylene glycol extends shelf life and maintains the intended physical characteristics of products. This advantage reduces waste and enhances customer satisfaction with end products.

Packaging Information

Propylene Glycol is supplied in multiple packaging options tailored to industrial usage in East Africa. Available volumes include 5L and 10L plastic containers for small- to medium-scale operations, 20L plastic drums suited for batch manufacturing, and 200L plastic drums for larger-scale industrial users. These packaging formats facilitate ease of handling and storage. Zenco Systems Ltd supports bulk ordering with logistics optimized for distribution across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries, ensuring product availability across the region.

Standard formats: 5L, 10L, 20L, and 200L plastic containers

Storage and Handling

Store propylene glycol in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and ignition sources due to its flammability at high temperatures. Containers should remain tightly sealed to prevent moisture contamination and evaporation losses. Use chemically compatible plastic or metal containers designed for organic liquids. Avoid storing near strong oxidizers and acids. While shelf life is generally long under proper conditions, confirm with supplier for batch-specific expiry. Handle with gloves and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent inhalation of vapors in confined spaces.

Safety Information

Propylene glycol is generally regarded as safe and presents low toxicity risks if handled correctly. It is combustible at elevated temperatures, so keep away from ignition sources and open flames. Use personal protective equipment including gloves and eye protection to avoid prolonged skin contact and eye exposure. In case of inhalation or ingestion, seek medical attention if adverse symptoms appear. Dispose of waste and empty containers following local environmental regulations. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for comprehensive hazard and first aid information.

Full hazard detail is available in the technical data sheet.

Technical Specifications

pHApproximately 6.5 - 8.0 (1% aqueous solution)

GradeFood Grade USP compliant

PurityConfirm with supplier

DensityApproximately 1.036 g/cm³ at 20°C

FormulaC3H8O2

Packaging5L, 10L, 20L, and 200L plastic containers

AppearanceClear colorless liquid

CAS Number57-55-6

SolubilityMiscible with water, acetone, chloroform

Chemical NamePropylene Glycol

Storage ConditionsStore in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition

Applications

Food processing
Cosmetics manufacturing
Pharmaceutical solvents
Humectants in personal care products
Chemical intermediates
Antifreeze and de-icing fluids

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

pHApproximately 6.5 - 8.0 (1% aqueous solution)

GradeFood Grade USP compliant

PurityConfirm with supplier

DensityApproximately 1.036 g/cm³ at 20°C

FormulaC3H8O2

Packaging5L, 10L, 20L, and 200L plastic containers

AppearanceClear colorless liquid

CAS Number57-55-6

SolubilityMiscible with water, acetone, chloroform

Chemical NamePropylene Glycol

Storage ConditionsStore in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition

Product Features

- Clear, colorless, odorless liquid
- Food grade USP compliant
- Hygroscopic moisture retention
- Miscible in water and organic solvents
- Low toxicity and skin irritation
- Stable under typical storage conditions

Industries Served

- Food and Beverage
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Chemical Production
- Automotive and Industrial Cooling

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Frequently Asked Questions About Propylene Glycol

What is Propylene Glycol used for in food processing?

It acts as a humectant to retain moisture, a solvent for flavors and colorants, and a stabilizer to extend shelf life in products like baked goods, frostings, and ice cream.

Is the Propylene Glycol you supply safe for pharmaceutical applications?

Yes, our propylene glycol meets USP food-grade standards, ensuring it is pure and safe for pharmaceutical uses including solvents in oral and topical formulations.

How should Propylene Glycol be stored in East African climates?

Store it in sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent degradation and maintain quality.

Do you supply Propylene Glycol outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies propylene glycol across East Africa including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and parts of Ethiopia and the DRC, supported by reliable cross-border logistics.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when handling this chemical?

Gloves and eye protection are advised to prevent skin and eye contact. Good ventilation is important to avoid inhaling vapors in enclosed spaces.

What packaging sizes are available for Propylene Glycol?

We offer 5L plastic jerrycans, 10L plastic containers, 20L plastic drums, and 200L plastic drums suited for various scales of industrial use.

How does Propylene Glycol improve personal care products?

Its moisture-retaining properties prevent dryness and enhance smoothness in lotions and creams, improving product performance and user comfort.

Can Propylene Glycol be used in antifreeze formulations?

Yes, its low freezing point and chemical stability make it ideal for safe, non-toxic antifreeze and de-icing fluid production.

What should buyers verify before purchasing Propylene Glycol?

Confirm the grade and purity with the supplier via Certificate of Analysis, and ensure packaging suits your handling and storage requirements.