Propylene oxide (also known as propylene oxide, methyloxirane, 1,2-epoxypropane) is a colorless, transparent, low-boiling, volatile and flammable liquid with an ether-like odor.The industrial product is a racemic mixture of two optical isomers.The molecule contains a highly reactive three-membered epoxy ring, making it chemically active and an important intermediate in organic synthesis.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaC3H6O
Density:0.83g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:34℃
Solubility:
Miscible with water, and miscible with most organic solvents such as ethanol, diethyl ether, acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, etc.
Molecular Weight:58.1g/mol
Flash Point:-37℃
Melting Point:-112℃
Uses
1. Core Raw Materials:Production of polyether polyols (key raw materials for polyurethane foams, thermal insulation materials, elastomers, adhesives and coatings) and propylene glycol.
2. Fine Chemicals:Manufacture of nonionic surfactants, emulsifiers, wetting agents, detergents, fungicides, fumigants, plasticizers, synthetic resins, unsaturated polyesters, etc.
3. Other Fields:Intermediates for pharmaceuticals and pesticides, fumigants in the food industry, and raw materials for organic synthesis reactions.
Safety, Security & Risk
Physical Hazards
Vapors are heavier than air and may spread along the ground, causing ignition at a distance.Static electricity may be generated due to flow, agitation, etc.
Chemical Hazards
The substance may undergo violent polymerization under the action of alkalis, acids and metal chlorides.Risk of fire and explosion.Reacts violently with chlorine, ammonia, strong oxidizing agents and acids.Risk of fire or explosion.