1,2-PROPYLENE CARBONATE

1,2-Propylene carbonate combines strong solvency with low volatility, making it suitable for formulations that require efficient dissolution and controlled evaporation.
1,2-Propylene carbonate's high polarity and dielectric strength support reliable performance in battery electrolytes, coatings, adhesives and specialty chemical systems.
1,2-Propylene carbonate offers good chemical stability, mild odor and a relatively high flash point for safer and more consistent industrial processing.

CAS Number: 108-32-7
EC Number: 203-572-1
Molecular Formula: C4H6O3
Molecular Weight: 102.09

Synonyms: 1,2-Propylene carbonate, 108-32-7, 4-Methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one, 1,2-1,2-Propylene carbonate, 1,2-Propanediol cyclic carbonate, Arconate 5000, Texacar PC, Cyclic 1,2-Propylene carbonate, 1,2-Propanediol carbonate, 1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, 4-methyl-, Propylene glycol cyclic carbonate, Di1,2-Propylene carbonate, 1-Methylethylene carbonate, 1,2-Propanediyl carbonate, Cyclic 1,2-1,2-Propylene carbonate, Cyclic methylethylene carbonate, 4-Methyl-2-oxo-1,3-dioxolane, Carbonic acid, propylene ester, Propylenester kyseliny uhlicite, DTXSID2026789, Carbonic acid cyclic methylethylene ester, Carbonic acid, cyclic propylene ether, NSC-11784, 8D08K3S51E, DTXCID006789, RefChem:6175, 203-572-1, (R)-(+)-1,2-Propylene carbonate, 4-Methyldioxalone-2, Carbonic acid, cyclic propylene ester, NSC 11784, Propylenecarbonate, 99%, 1,2-Propylene carbonate [NF], 1,2-Propylene carbonate (NF), WLN: T5OVOTJ D, CAS-108-32-7, HSDB 6806, PC-HP, EINECS 203-572-1, MFCD00005385, 4-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-one, Propylenester kyseliny uhlicite [Czech], BRN 0107913, UNII-8D08K3S51E, AI3-19724, propylenecarbonate, Solvenon PC, propylen carbonate, 1,2-Propylene carbonate(PC), Tenofovir Impurity 224, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, Arconate 1,2-Propylene carbonate, EC 203-572-1, SCHEMBL15309, 5-19-04-00021 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), R-1,2-Propanediol carbonate, SCHEMBL253584, SCHEMBL905652, 1-propanediol cyclic carbonate, orb3023600, SCHEMBL9179119, (S)-1,2-Propanediol carbonate, CHEMBL1733973, 1,2-Propylene carbonate [II], 2-Oxo-4-methyl-1,3-dioxolane, 1,2-PDC, 4-methyl-[1,3]dioxolan-2-one, NSC1913, CHEBI:231185, 1,2-Propylene carbonate [HSDB], 1,2-Propylene carbonate [VANDF], 1,2-Propanediol cyclic carbonate, 4-Methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one, NSC-1913, NSC11784, 1,2-Propylene carbonate (Battery grade), 1,2-Propylene carbonate [MART.], Tox21_202047, Tox21_303214, MSK162976, 1,2-Propylene carbonate [USP-RS], TN9412, AKOS009158417, (S)-1,2-Propanediol cyclic carbonate, FP40326, MSK162976-100M, SB66353, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, anhydrous, 99.7%, NCGC00165974-01, NCGC00165974-02, NCGC00256995-01, NCGC00259596-01, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, for HPLC, 99.7%, BP-30108, BP-31155, DB-018081, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, ReagentPlus(R), 99%, CS-0076373, NS00004305, P0525, D05633, EN300-296359, F044922, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, anhydrous, Water 50ppm Max., 1,2-Propylene carbonate, Selectophore(TM), >=99.0%, Q415979, 1,2-Propylene carbonate Solution in Methanol, 100ug/mL, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%, F0001-0165, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, >=99%, acid <10 ppm, H2O <10 ppm, 1,2-Propylene carbonate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard

1,2-Propylene carbonate is a carbonate ester (chiral organic compound) derived from propylene glycol.
Usually, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is a colorless and odorless liquid.
1,2-Propylene carbonate can be used as a polar, aprotic solvent.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is an organic compound with the formula C4H6O3.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is a cyclic carbonate ester derived from propylene glycol.

This colorless and odorless liquid is useful as a polar, aprotic solvent.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is chiral, but is used as the racemic mixture in most contexts.

The name carbonate indicates a carbonate ester, an organic compound containing the carbonate group O=C(−O−)2, not a salt of carbonic acid, (H2CO3), characterized by the presence of the carbonate ion, a polyatomic ion with the formula CO2−3.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is a polar aprotic solvent used as a "green" sustainable alternative solvent for chemical transformations.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is a low toxicity, biodegradable, non-corrosive colorless liquid with a steep boiling point.

1,2-Propylene carbonate also has strong stability against reduction as well as a strong dielectric constant, and thereby PC or PC-based mixed solvent systems have been successfully employed as a solvent in primary lithium cells using metallic lithium as negative electrodes.

Due to its low vapor pressure and findings of negligible photochemical reactivity, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is an effective substitute for other hazardous solvents such a MEK, methylene chloride, toluene, acetone, NMP, and perchloroethylene.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is also compatible with different solvents, providing an efficient ingredient in co-solvent formulations.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is widely used in the manufacture of paints, adhesives, coatings, surface cleaners, degreasers, strippers, and inks formulations as well as in lithium-ion batteries, as electrolytic solvent, and in the removal of carbon dioxide from natural gas.

Besides, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is also an ingredient that is used in cosmetics and skincare products.
In those products, 1,2-Propylene carbonate primarily functions as a solvent, meaning that it dissolves different ingredients.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is typically used at concentrations ranging from less than 0.1% to 5%.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is used in the formulation of makeup, primarily lipstick, eye shadow, and mascara, as well as in skin cleansing products.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is a high-purity cyclic carbonate solvent recognized for its strong polarity, high boiling point and excellent solvency.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is a clear, colorless and nearly odorless liquid that dissolves many polymers, resins, salts and organic compounds.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is widely used in lithium-ion battery electrolytes, coatings, adhesives, inks, cleaning formulations, cosmetics and chemical processing applications.
1,2-Propylene carbonate's low volatility, high flash point and good chemical stability make it suitable for formulations requiring efficient dissolution, controlled evaporation and reliable performance.

1,2-Propylene carbonate can be synthesized from propylene oxide and CO2.
Optically active form of 1,2-Propylene carbonate can be prepared from the reaction between CO2 and racemic epoxides.

Decomposition of 1,2-Propylene carbonate on the graphite electrode in lithium batteries results in the formation of a lithium intercalated compound.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is a cyclic carbonate that is commonly used as a solvent and as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is being considered as a potential electrochemical solvent due to its low vapor pressure, high dielectric constant and high chemical stability.

​1,2-Propylene carbonate is a PU-plasticizer and it is VOC-free clear polar solvent having high boiling and flashpoints.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is a carbonate ester derived from propylene glycol with the peculiarity to have a low order of toxicity and a mild ether-like odor.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is stable under most conditions and it is not hydroscopic or corrosive.

Usage of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
1,2-Propylene carbonate is used for carbon dioxide recovery and solvent extraction.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is also used in lithium batteries, as a plasticizer, in natural gas purification, and as a synthetic fiber spinning solvent.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as a solvent in surface coatings, paint removers, cosmetics, personal care products, cleaners, degreasers, dyes, fibers, plastics, wood-binder resins, and photochromic solutions.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is also used as a solvent to bake enamels, a reactive diluent for urethanes and epoxy resins, a dispersant for lubricants and greases, a binder for foundry sand and moulds, a cleaner in electronics, and as a water scavenger.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as oil solvent, spinning solvent, olefin, aromatic extractant, carbon dioxide absorber, water-soluble dye and pigment dispersant, etc.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as a gas chromatographic fixative and solvent, also used in the synthesis of high molecular polymers.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as a dispersant for plasticizers, spinning solvents, water-soluble dyes and plastics.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as a solvent for synthetic fibers and other polymers, also as an extractant, plasticizer, etc.

Industry Uses:
Dispersing agent
Conductive agent
Solvent
Other
Monomers
Plating agent
Cleaning agent
Viscosity modifiers
Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Waterproofing agent
Filler
Diluent
Ion exchange agent
Etching agent
Chelating agent
Surface modifier

Consumer Uses:
Monomers
Conductive agent
Solvent
Other
Cleaning agent
Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Filler
Viscosity modifiers

Applications of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
1,2-Propylene carbonate is particularly well suited for applications requiring a water-white product or high purity.
1,2-Propylene carbonate can be used in cosmetics and personal care products; mainly in the formulation of make-up, primarily lipstick, eye shadow, and mascara, as well as in skin cleansing products.
Being a cyclic carbonate reacts with amines to form carbamates, undergoes hydroxy alkylation and transesterification PC can be used as an isocyanate and unsaturated polyester resin cleanup solvent, viscosity reducer in coatings, CO2 extraction solvent, electrolyte in lithium batteries, polar additive for clay gellants, foundry binder catalyst, and textile dye carrier and cleaner.

As a solvent:
1,2-Propylene carbonate is used as a polar, aprotic solvent.
1,2-Propylene carbonate has a high molecular dipole moment (4.9 D), considerably higher than those of acetone (2.91 D) and ethyl acetate (1.78 D).
1,2-Propylene carbonate is possible, for example, to obtain potassium, sodium, and other alkali metals by electrolysis of their chlorides and other salts dissolved in 1,2-Propylene carbonate.

Electrolyte:
Due to its high relative permittivity (dielectric constant) of 64, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is frequently used as a high-permittivity component of electrolytes in lithium batteries, usually together with a low-viscosity solvent (e.g. dimethoxyethane).
1,2-Propylene carbonate's high polarity allows it to create an effective solvation shell around lithium ions, thereby creating a conductive electrolyte.
However, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is not used in lithium-ion batteries due to its destructive effect on graphite.

Other:
1,2-Propylene carbonate can also be found in some adhesives, paint strippers, and in cosmetics.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is also used as plasticizer.

1,2-Propylene carbonate is also used as a solvent for removal of CO2 from natural gas and synthesis gas where H2S is not also present.
This use was developed by El Paso Natural Gas Company and Fluor Corporation in the 1950s for use at the Terrell County Gas Plant in West Texas, now owned by Occidental Petroleum.[11]

1,2-Propylene carbonate product may be converted to other carbonate esters by transesterification as well (see Carbonate ester#Carbonate transesterification).
In electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, 1,2-Propylene carbonate is doped into low surface tension solutions to increase analyte charging.
In Grignard reaction 1,2-Propylene carbonate (or most other carbonate esters) might be used to create tertiary alcohols.

Advantages of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
1,2-Propylene carbonate provides excellent solvency for resins, polymers, salts and a wide range of organic compounds.
1,2-Propylene carbonate's high boiling point and low volatility support controlled evaporation, longer processing time and reduced solvent loss.

1,2-Propylene carbonate offers strong polarity and a high dielectric constant, making it valuable in lithium-ion battery electrolytes and other electrochemical systems.
1,2-Propylene carbonate improves formulation uniformity, viscosity control and ingredient dispersion in coatings, inks, adhesives and cleaning products.

1,2-Propylene carbonate's relatively high flash point provides safer handling characteristics compared with many low-boiling organic solvents.
1,2-Propylene carbonate is nearly odorless, chemically stable and suitable for applications requiring reliable performance under demanding processing conditions.

Preparation of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
Although many organic carbonates are produced using phosgene, propylene and ethylene carbonates are exceptions.

They are mainly prepared by the carbonation of the epoxides (epoxypropane, or propylene oxide here):
CH3CHCH2O + CO2 → CH3C2H3O2CO

The corresponding reaction of 1,2-propanediol with phosgene is complex, yielding not only 1,2-Propylene carbonate but also oligomeric products.

1,2-Propylene carbonate can also be synthesized from urea and propylene glycol over zinc acetate.

Stability and Reactivity of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Chemical Stability:
Stable under normal temperatures and recommended storage conditions.

Reactivity:
No hazardous reactions are expected during normal handling and intended use.

Conditions to Avoid:
Avoid excessive heat, open flames, sparks, ignition sources and prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong alkalis and highly reactive chemicals.

Hazardous Polymerization:
Hazardous polymerization is not expected.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Thermal decomposition or combustion may produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and irritating fumes.

Handling and Storage of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Safe Handling:
Handle in a well-ventilated area and avoid generating vapour or mist.

Contact Precautions:
Avoid contact with the eyes, skin and clothing.
Do not breathe vapour, mist or spray.

Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Do not eat, drink or smoke in the work area.

Storage Conditions:
Store in the original, tightly closed container in a cool, dry and well-ventilated location.

Storage Protection:
Protect from heat, direct sunlight, moisture, ignition sources and incompatible materials.

First Aid Measures of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Inhalation:
Move the affected person to fresh air and keep at rest.
Seek medical attention if coughing, dizziness or breathing discomfort continues.

Skin Contact:
Remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Obtain medical advice if irritation develops.

Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Ingestion:
Rinse the mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.
Obtain medical attention if discomfort occurs.

Firefighting Measures of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.

Unsuitable Extinguishing Media:
Avoid using a strong water jet because it may spread the burning liquid.

Specific Hazards:
The product is combustible when strongly heated.
Vapours may form flammable mixtures under elevated-temperature conditions.

Hazardous Combustion Products:
Fire may produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, smoke and irritating organic vapours.

Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear full protective clothing and a self-contained breathing apparatus.

Firefighting Instructions:
Cool exposed containers with water spray and prevent contaminated extinguishing water from entering drains or waterways.

Accidental Release Measures of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Personal Precautions:
Provide adequate ventilation and eliminate heat, sparks and other ignition sources.

Protective Equipment:
Wear suitable gloves, eye protection, protective clothing and respiratory protection when ventilation is inadequate.

Environmental Precautions:
Prevent the product from entering drains, soil, groundwater or surface water.

Cleanup Methods:
Absorb the spill with sand, earth, vermiculite or another non-combustible absorbent material.

Waste Disposal:
Transfer collected material into a suitable, labelled and tightly closed container for disposal according to local regulations.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Engineering Controls:
Provide adequate general ventilation and local exhaust ventilation where vapour, mist or aerosol may be generated.

Respiratory Protection:
Use an approved organic-vapour respirator when ventilation is insufficient or exposure levels are elevated.

Eye Protection:
Wear chemical safety goggles or safety glasses with side protection.

Hand Protection:
Wear suitable chemical-resistant gloves, such as nitrile, butyl rubber or neoprene gloves.

Skin Protection:
Wear protective work clothing and closed footwear.

Hygiene Controls:
Wash hands and exposed skin after handling.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.

Identifiers of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
Product Number: P0525
Purity / Analysis Method : >98.0%(GC)
Molecular Formula / Molecular Weight: C4H6O3 = 102.09 
Physical State (20 deg.C): Liquid
Storage Temperature : Room Temperature (Recommended in a cool and dark place, <15°C)
Store Under Inert Gas: Store under inert gas
Condition to Avoid: Hygroscopic
CAS RN: 108-32-7
Reaxys Registry Number: 107913
PubChem Substance ID: 87574706
SDBS (AIST Spectral DB): 486
MDL Number: MFCD00005385

Empirical Formula (Hill Notation): C4H6O3
CAS Number: 108-32-7
Molecular Weight: 102.09
UNSPSC Code: 12352005
NACRES: NA.21
PubChem Substance ID: 57648504
EC Number: 203-572-1
Beilstein/REAXYS Number: 107913
MDL number: MFCD00005385
Assay: 99.7%

Product name: 1,2-Propylene carbonate
Cas No.: 108-32-7
Molecular Formula: C4H6O3
Molecular Weight: 102.09
Appearance: colorless liquid
Assay: 99.7%min

CAS Number: 108-32-7
ChemSpider: 7636 X mark
ECHA InfoCard: 100.003.248
PubChem CID: 7924
UNII: 8D08K3S51E
CompTox Dashboard (EPA): DTXSID2026789
InChI: InChI=1S/C5H8O6/c1-3(11-5(8)9)2-10-4(6)7/h3H,2H2,1H3,(H,6,7)(H,8,9)/p-1
Key: ZEBXBLIKXVICMJ-UHFFFAOYSA-M
InChI=1/C5H8O6/c1-3(11-5(8)9)2-10-4(6)7/h3H,2H2,1H3,(H,6,7)(H,8,9)/p-1
Key: ZEBXBLIKXVICMJ-REWHXWOFAP
SMILES: CC1COC(=O)O1

Properties of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
Chemical formula: C4H6O3
Molar mass: 102.089 g·mol−1
Appearance: Colorless liquid
Density: 1.205 g/cm3
Melting point: −48.8 °C (−55.8 °F; 224.3 K)
Boiling point: 242 °C (468 °F; 515 K)
Solubility in water: Very soluble (240 g/L at 20°C)
Refractive index (nD): 1.4189

Molecular Weight: 102.09 g/mol
XLogP3: -0.4
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 3
Rotatable Bond Count: 0
Exact Mass: 102.031694049 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 102.031694049 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 35.5 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 7
Complexity: 88.9
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 1
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes

grade: anhydrous
Quality Segment: 100
vapor pressure: 0.13 mmHg ( 20 °C), 0.98 mmHg ( 50 °C)
assay: 99.7%
form: liquid
autoignition temp.: 851 °F
expl. lim.: 14.3 %
sustainability: Greener Alternative Product
impurities: <0.002% water, <0.005% water (100 mL pkg)
refractive index: n20/D 1.421 (lit.)
pH: 7 (20 °C, 200 g/L)
bp: 240 °C (lit.)
mp: −55 °C (lit.)
density: 1.204 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
greener alternative category: Enabling
SMILES string: CC1COC(=O)O1
InChI: 1S/C4H6O3/c1-3-2-6-4(5)7-3/h3H,2H2,1H3
InChI key: RUOJZAUFBMNUDX-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Melting Point: -49 °C
Boiling Point: 242 °C
Flash point: 132 °C
Specific Gravity (20/20): 1.21
Refractive Index: 1.42
Solubility in water: Soluble
Degree of solubility in water: 175 g/l   25 °C
Solubility (miscible with): Ether, Acetone, Alcohol

Specifications of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
Appearance: Colorless to Light yellow clear liquid
Purity(GC): min. 98.0 %

Related Compounds of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:
Ethylene carbonate
Dimethyl carbonate

Names of 1,2-Propylene Carbonate:

Preferred IUPAC name:
4-Methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one

Other names:
(RS)-4-Methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one
Cyclic 1,2-Propylene carbonate
Carbonic acid propylene ester
Cyclic 1,2-1,2-Propylene carbonate
Propylene glycol cyclic carbonate
1,2-Propanediol carbonate
4-Methyl-2-oxo-1,3-dioxolane
Arconate 5000
Texacar PC