Propylene oxide

The Propylene Oxide & Glycols Sector Group (PO & Glycols)

Uses and properties

Propylene oxide is used as a monomer in polymer production and as an intermediate in the synthesis of other substances. It is also used as a chemical intermediate for the manufacture of:

• Polyols used in polyurethane foam manufacture for the furniture and automotive industries, and coatings, adhesives and sealants
• Propylene glycol ethers for use as solvents in paints, inks, coatings, resins, cleaners and waxes
• Propylene glycols, which can be used in:
  • the production of unsaturated polyester resins, especially in the construction, transportation, automotive and marine industries
  • as a solvent in food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
  • in engine coolants and aircraft de-icers
• Butanediol and related products for speciality resins and solvents.

Issues and regulations

Regulations

The Sector Group is pro-actively managing regulatory and environmental responsibilities on the industry:

• Health: SCOEL / Occupational Exposure Limits, Classification issues
• Environment: CO2 emissions (benchmarks), Industrial Emissions Directive (BREF)

REACH implementation

The PO PG REACH Consortium has successfully completed its registrations of the consortium substances:

• Propylene oxide
• Mono-propylene glycol
• Di-propylene glycol
• Tri-propylene glycol

ReachCentrum will continue to manage the Consortium and handle requests for Letters of Access by Co-Registrants.

Specific issues

• Exchange non-confidential safety information about the production, distribution and handling of propylene oxide.
• Promoting the standing of the propylene oxide and propylene glycols industry in a socially responsible manner.
• Informing consumers and those involved in the handling of the products on its properties and functionality.
• Encouraging the safe and proper use of propylene oxide and propylene glycols by developing and publishing appropriate technical information.
• Maintaining a high level of technical understanding by identifying and managing research into health and environmental effects and assessing risks in use.
• Organising and funding toxicology research projects, in collaboration with other Industry associations where appropriate.
• Presenting a positive image of propylene oxide and propylene glycols to the industry, authorities and the public.
• Developing a common position on major issues of the industry for presentation to regulators, opinion leaders and other concerned bodies.
• Developing product stewardship programmes following the Responsible Care principles.

Contact/Further information

Paul Teheux, Sector Group Manager
Tel. + 32 2 676 7258
Website:
Propylene Glycol

Membership

BASF
Bayer
Dow Europe
Ineos Oxide
LyondellBasell Industries
Repsol Quimica
Shell Chemicals
Chairperson: Cristina Martinez, Repsol Quimica.

More information/related documents

• Guidelines for the Distribution of Propylene Oxide, Revision 2 (July 2009) EN , DE , FR, IT, ES
• Guidelines for the Handling and Distritrubtion Propylene Glycol USP/EP (pharmaceutical grade monopropylene glycol) revision 2.1, May 2011 (USP/EP) available in EN, DE, FR, IT, and ES.
• Environment friendly couplings for Propylene Oxide Transportation Equipment. Download.

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