Propylene oxide: Characteristics
Why water traces ruin a polyol
What this tab covers The physical and chemical properties that set its grade, price and uses, with the commercial grades and the standards that define them.Polyol producers need high-purity PO with very low aldehydes and water, because impurities affect polyol colour, odour and functionality. Its low boiling point and flammability drive logistics.
Properties that matter commercially
| Property | Value / specification | Why it matters | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | at least 99.97% PO (indicative) | Polyol quality and catalyst life. | industry standard (indicative) |
| Boiling point | 34°C | Volatile; must be stored cool and pressurised with nitrogen. | standard physical data |
| Water and aldehyde content | water under about 100 ppm (indicative) | Water creates unwanted diols in polyols. | industry standard (indicative) |
Commercial grades
- Polymer/polyol grade PO
- Propylene glycol USP (food and pharma) and industrial grades
- Bio-PG (from glycerine)