Glycerol (chemically known as propylene glycol) is a colorless, odorless, transparent and sweet-tasting viscous liquid. It belongs to the category of polyhydric alcohols. Its chemical formula is C₃H₈O₃. It can mix with water and most organic solvents, but does not dissolve in oily substances. Glycerol has a very strong hygroscopic property, being able to absorb moisture from the air. This characteristic makes it widely used in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
【CAS】56-81-5 Molecular formula:C3H8O3 Relative molecular mass:92.0938
Structural formula:
一．Product Property：
Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H8O3. It is a simple polyol compound. It is a colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting viscous liquid that is non-toxic. The main chain of glycerol exists in lipids known as glycerides.
二．Quality Index:
| Parameter | Specification (USP/FCC/EU) |
| Purity (C₃H₈O₃) | ≥ 99.0% (w/w) |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.5% (w/w) |
| Specific Gravity (25°C) | 1.249–1.264 |
| Chlorides | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Sulfates | ≤ 20 ppm |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 5 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 3 ppm |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.01% (w/w) |
| Fatty Acids & Esters | Passes test (≤ 0.5% as oleic acid) |
| Sugars | Passes test (no reducing sugars) |
| Organic Volatile Impurities | Meets USP <467> limits |
| Microbial Limits | Total Aerobic Count ≤ 100 CFU/g |
| Yeast & Mold | ≤ 10 CFU/g |
| Pathogens | Absent in 10g (Salmonella, E. coli) |
三．Application scope and Usage
Food Industry: Used as solvents, desiccants and color carriers. In food flavoring and coloring processes, due to its viscosity, glycerol helps in shaping the food. In the rapid freezing of food, glycerol can be used as a heat transfer medium in direct contact with the food. Glycerol is also a lubricant for food processing and packaging machinery. Moreover, the applications of polyglycerol and polyglycerol esters in manufacturing crispy foods and margarine are increasing year by year.
四．Package and Storage
Glycerin is packaged in 250 kg drums, or in accordance with the packaging specifications desired by the customer.
- Store in a clean and dry place, and ensure proper sealing for storage. Pay attention to moisture prevention, waterproofing, heat prevention, and strictly avoid mixing with strong oxidants. It can be stored in containers made of tinplate or stainless steel.
- Store in aluminum drums or galvanized iron drums, or in storage tanks lined with phenolic resin. During transportation and storage, be sure to prevent moisture, heat, and water. Do not mix glycerol with strong oxidants (such as nitric acid, potassium permanganate, etc.). Store and transport in accordance with the regulations for general flammable chemicals.
五．Safety Protection:
Skin contact may cause mild irritation. Long-term exposure can lead to dry skin. It is recommended to wear nitrile or rubber gloves during operation. Eye contact can cause redness and discomfort. In case of splashing, immediately rinse with water for 15 minutes.
