Propylene carbonate / PC

Properties of Propylene Carbonate (PC)

Propylene carbonate (4-methyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one) is a clear, colorless, nearly odorless liquid. Chemically, it is an ester of carbonic acid with the dihydric alcohol 1,2-propanediol. Propylene carbonate is considered a green solvent and is increasingly replacing substances such as cresols that are problematic from an environmental and occupational safety perspective. It features a high boiling point, is neither corrosive nor hygroscopic, and poses a low risk to humans and the environment. Propylene carbonate is not classified as a hazardous material under transport regulations, is not subject to VOC taxes in Switzerland, and supports compliance with VOC limits in the EU in accordance with the Decopaint Directive.

Uses of Propylene Carbonate (PC)

Propylene carbonate is used as a polar solvent in numerous industries. In the paints and coatings sector, it can replace substances of greater toxicological concern such as cyclohexanone, DBE, DMF, acetone, MEK, and ethyl acetate. Other applications as a solvent include the manufacture of inks and all-purpose cleaners.

Propylene carbonate is used in the degreasing of metals.

In the plastics industry, propylene carbonate is widely used as a plasticizer. It also plays a role in the production of PU foams.

Propylene carbonate serves as an extraction agent for aromatic hydrocarbons and as a swelling agent for special clay minerals in paints, cosmetics, and lubricants.

Due to its high purity, propylene carbonate is suitable as an electrolyte for high-energy-density batteries.