Glycerine
| Formula: | C₃H₈O₃ |
| CAS Number: | 56-81-5 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 200-289-5 |
| HS Code: | 29054500 |
| UN Number: | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| IUPAC Name: | Propane-1,2,3-triol |
| Also Known As: | Glycerol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; Glycyl Alcohol |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 92.09 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | Clear, colorless, viscous liquid |
| Odor: | Odorless, slightly sweet |
| Melting Point, °C: | 18 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | 290 (decomposes) |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 1.26 |
| Flash Point, °C: | 177 (closed cup) |
| Refractive Index (20°C): | 1.473 |
| Solubility: | Miscible with water and alcohols |
| Purity, %: | ≥99.5 (depending on grade) |
| Grades Available: | USP/Pharma, Food Grade, Industrial Grade |
| Packaging: | 250kg drums, 1,000kg IBCs, bulk tankers |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Widely used humectant and moisturizer in personal care & cosmetics
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Food additive (E422) as sweetener, preservative, and solvent
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Pharmaceutical excipient in syrups, cough medicines, and capsules
Secondary Applications
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Antifreeze and de-icing formulations
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Tobacco industry (as humectant in cigarettes)
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Intermediate in alkyd resins, polyols, and explosives (nitroglycerin)
End Industries Served: Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Cosmetics, Tobacco, Chemicals, Resins & Polymers
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Generally recognized as safe (GRAS); low toxicity
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H319: May cause eye irritation
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation (aerosol/mist)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid inhalation of mist/vapors
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water
Storage Conditions
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Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area
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Protect from moisture contamination
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Hygroscopic – absorbs water from air
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IMDG: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IATA: Not classified as dangerous goods