Propylene glycol monomethyl ether * PM * 1-Methoxy-2-propanol

Technical grade

Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PM Glycol Ether) is an organic compound that belongs to the family of glycol ethers. It has the chemical formula C₄H₁₀O₂ and is known for its excellent solvent properties, low toxicity, and versatility in industrial and commercial applications.

It has a high water solubility, excellent solvent with good coupling properties making it suitable for cleaning solutions and coating applications. This hydrophilic solvent has 100% water solubility and is ideally suited as a coupling agent in a wide range of solvent systems. 

Key Properties of Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether

• Chemical Formula: CH₃CHOHCH₂OCH₃
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid.
• Odour: Mild, sweet smell.
• CAS No: 107-98-2
• Molar mass: 90.1 g mol
• Density: 0.919 g/cm, liquid
• Solubility: Miscible with water and many organic solvents.
• Boiling Point: Approximately 120°C (248°F).
• Volatility: Moderate; evaporates more slowly than many other solvents.
• Viscosity: 1.7 cP at 25 C
• Other Names: Dowanol PM, 1-Methoxy-2-propanol, Methoxypropanol, Propylene glycol monomethyl ether,

Common Uses of PM Glycol Ether

1. Solvent in Paints, Coatings, and Inks

• Application: Used as a solvent for water-based paints, coatings, and printing inks.
• Why: Enhances flow, reduces viscosity, and improves drying time without compromising the stability of the formulation.
• Active and tail solvent for solvent based gravure and flexographic printing inks.
• Coupling agent in solvent blends for water-based gravure, flexographic, and silk screen printing inks.
• Carrier solvent for ball point and felt tip writing pen inks.

2. Industrial Cleaners

• Application: Found in cleaning agents such as degreasers, glass cleaners, and multi-purpose cleaners.
• Why: Dissolves oils, greases, and other residues effectively, while being gentle enough for various surfaces.
• Solvent for agricultural pesticides, deactivator and emollient for livestock pesticides

3. Chemical Intermediate

• Application: Used in the production of other chemicals, such as esters and acetates, which are further utilized in manufacturing coatings and adhesives.
• Why: Its chemical stability makes it a reliable intermediate for synthesis.

4. Electronics Industry

• Application: Utilized in semiconductor manufacturing processes and cleaning electronic components.
• Why: Its low residue and excellent solvency properties make it ideal for precision cleaning.

5. Adhesives and Sealants

• Application: Used in adhesive formulations to enhance bonding performance and consistency.
• Why: Helps maintain the desired viscosity and prevents premature drying.

6. Textile and Leather Industry

• Application: Used as a dye carrier or solvent in textile dyeing and printing.
• Why: Improves dye penetration and ensures even application.

7. Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics

• Application: Occasionally used as a solvent in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.
• Why: Its low toxicity and solubility profile make it suitable for certain applications.

8. Energy Sector

• Application: Used in hydraulic fluids, antifreeze, and heat transfer fluids.
• Why: Provides low freezing points and stable performance across temperature ranges.

Benefits of PM Glycol Ether

• Efficient Solvent: Dissolves a wide range of substances, including polar and nonpolar compounds.
• Low Toxicity: Safer than many other solvents, making it suitable for industrial and commercial use.
• Low Volatility: Reduces emissions and odor, improving workplace safety and air quality.
• Versatile: Used across multiple industries, from paints and coatings to electronics and cleaning products.