Propylene oxide (C3H6O) is a chemical compound used in the production of many everyday items such as plastics, cosmetics, and detergents. It is a colorless and flammable liquid with a slightly sweet odor.
| IUPAC Name | Propylene oxide |
| Molecular Formula | C3H6O |
| CAS Number | 75-56-9 |
| Synonyms | 1,2-Epoxypropane, methyloxirane, propylene epoxide |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C3H6O/c1-2-4-3-1/h1-3H2 |
Propylene Oxide Properties
Propylene Oxide Structure
1,2-epoxypropane has a three-carbon chain with an oxygen atom attached to one of the carbons. It has a cyclic structure with a ring composed of two carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. This structure gives 1,2-epoxypropane its unique chemical and physical properties.
Propylene Oxide Formula
The chemical formula of 1,2-epoxypropane is C3H6O. It is a simple molecule with a three-carbon chain and an oxygen atom. The formula gives information about the number and types of atoms present in the molecule, which is important in understanding its properties and behavior in different conditions.
Propylene Oxide Molar Mass
1,2-epoxypropane has a molar mass of 58.08 g/mol. It is a relatively small molecule with a three-carbon chain and an oxygen atom. Molar mass is an important property that is used in various calculations such as determining the amount of a substance needed for a reaction or calculating the mass of a sample from the number of moles.
Propylene Oxide Boiling Point
1,2-epoxypropane has a boiling point of 34.6°C (94.3°F). This means that it can easily turn into a gas when heated to this temperature. The boiling point is a physical property that is important for many applications such as distillation and fractional distillation.
Propylene Oxide Melting Point
1,2-epoxypropane has a melting point of -60.8°C (-77.4°F). This means that it is a liquid at room temperature and can solidify at low temperatures. The melting point is an important physical property that is used to identify a substance and determine its purity.
Propylene Oxide Density g/mL
The density of 1,2-epoxypropane is 0.830 g/mL at 20°C (68°F). Density is a physical property that is defined as the amount of mass per unit volume. It is an important property that is used in various calculations such as determining the volume of a substance needed for a reaction.
Propylene Oxide Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of 1,2-epoxypropane is 58.08 g/mol. Molecular weight is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a molecule. It is an important property that is used in various calculations such as determining the molar mass and the number of moles of a substance.
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.83 at 20°C |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Slightly sweet odor |
| Molar Mass | 58.08 g/mol |
| Density | 0.830 g/mL at 20°C |
| Melting Point | -60.8°C (-77.4°F) |
| Boiling Point | 34.6°C (94.3°F) |
| Flash Point | -37°C (-35°F) |
| Water Solubility | Completely soluble in water |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone, benzene, toluene |
| Vapour Pressure | 485 mmHg at 25°C |
| Vapour Density | 2.06 |
| pKa | 13.5 |
| pH | 7.0 (neutral) |
Propylene Oxide Safety and Hazards
1,2-epoxypropane is a highly flammable liquid and can pose serious safety hazards if not handled properly. It can cause skin and eye irritation and may be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It is also a potential carcinogen and mutagen. Proper safety measures should be taken when handling 1,2-epoxypropane, including wearing protective clothing and equipment, ensuring proper ventilation, and avoiding contact with skin and eyes. Emergency measures should also be in place in case of accidental exposure or spills. It is important to follow all safety protocols and regulations when working with 1,2-epoxypropane to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
| Hazard Symbols | F: Highly flammable, T: Toxic, Xi: Irritant |
| Safety Description | Highly flammable liquid and vapor. Causes skin and eye irritation. Harmful if ingested or inhaled. Maybe a potential carcinogen and mutagen. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Use proper ventilation and personal protective equipment. Do not use near heat, sparks, or open flames. Dispose of it properly. |
| UN IDs | UN 1280 |
| HS Code | 2910.30.00 |
| Hazard Class | Class 3 – Flammable liquids, Class 6.1 – Toxic |
| Packing Group | PG II |
| Toxicity | LD50 (rat, oral) = 440 mg/kg; LC50 (rat, inhalation) = 560 ppm/4h |
Propylene Oxide Synthesis Methods
There are several methods of synthesizing 1,2-epoxypropane, but the most commonly used method is the chlorohydrin process.
In this process, propylene is reacted with hypochlorous acid, which is produced by reacting chlorine with water, to form propylene chlorohydrin. The propylene chlorohydrin is then reacted with sodium hydroxide to form 1,2-epoxypropane and sodium chloride.
Another method of synthesizing 1,2-epoxypropane is through the hydrogen peroxide process. In this process, propylene is reacted with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of a catalyst such as titanium silicalite or tungsten oxide to form 1,2-epoxypropane and water.
The epoxidation of propylene with molecular oxygen and a catalytic amount of a metal complex is also another method used for the synthesis of 1,2-epoxypropane.
Another method used for the synthesis of 1,2-epoxypropane is through the use of peracids, such as peracetic acid, which is produced by reacting acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide, in the presence of a catalyst such as a heteropolyacid.
The choice of synthesis method may depend on factors such as cost, availability of raw materials, and environmental concerns. However, it is important to ensure that the method used results in high yield and purity of the final product.
Propylene Oxide Uses
1,2-epoxypropane has a wide range of industrial applications due to its unique chemical properties. Some common uses of 1,2-epoxypropane include:
- Production of polyurethanes: The production of polyurethane foams uses 1,2-epoxypropane, which finds its application in various industries such as insulation, furniture, and packaging.
- Manufacturing of propylene glycols: The production of propylene glycols, which find extensive use in products like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food additives, involves utilizing 1,2-epoxypropane.
- Production of glycol ethers: The production of glycol ethers, which find application as solvents in paints, coatings, and inks, involves using 1,2-epoxypropane.
- Production of propylene carbonate: 1,2-epoxypropane serves as a crucial component in the production of propylene carbonate, and the electronics industry employs it as a solvent. Additionally, manufacturers use it as a raw material for producing lithium-ion batteries.
- Sterilization of medical equipment: Used as a sterilizing agent for medical equipment due to its ability to penetrate and kill microorganisms.
- Agricultural chemicals: Used in the production of agricultural chemicals such as herbicides and insecticides.
- Fuel and fuel additives: Used as a fuel and fuel additive in diesel engines and as a component of aviation fuel.
Questions:
Q: Where can I buy propylene oxide fuel additive?
A: 1,2-epoxypropane fuel additives can be purchased from chemical supply companies or fuel additive manufacturers. It is important to ensure that the supplier is reputable and that the product meets industry standards and regulations.
Q: Are chia seeds and almonds fumigated with propylene oxide?
A: It is possible for chia seeds and almonds to be fumigated with propylene oxide as a method of sterilization. However, it is important to note that not all products undergo this treatment and it is not a guarantee for all sources.
Q: How much heat is required to convert propylene glycol into propylene oxide?
A: Propylene glycol can be converted into 1,2-epoxypropane through a process called epoxidation, which typically requires a temperature range of 120-150°C and the use of a catalyst such as titanium silicalite or tungsten oxide.
Q: How much propylene oxide is produced in 2022?
A: It is difficult to predict the exact amount of 1,2-epoxypropane that will be produced in 2022, as it will depend on factors such as global demand, production capacity, and market conditions.
Q: How can I test for propylene oxide?
A: There are various methods for testing for 1,2-epoxypropane, including gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. These methods typically require specialized equipment and expertise and should be performed by trained professionals.