Propyl Alcohol

Functions
Antifoaming
Solvent
Antiseptic
CAS Number(s)
71-23-8
EINECS number(s)
200-746-9
FDA UNII
96F264O9SV

Propyl Alcohol (1-propanol) is a medium-volatility, polar solvent of very high purity and mild odor. Purest 1-propanol is specially intended for cosmetic applications.

It is a colorless, mobile liquid freely miscible with water and all common organic solvents. It has a fresh, alcoholic odor without significant undertones and a slightly bitter, alcoholic flavor.

Propyl Alcohol is primarily intended as a solvent and intermediate for applications in which very excellent product purity is specified. The main field of applications is cosmetic formulations, e.g., nail varnish removers, gargles, shaving lotions, refreshing and cleaning tissues, toothpaste, disinfectants, and hair dye removers.

Propyl Alcohol is also used in cleaners for floors, glass, metal surfaces, etc.; for denaturing or labeling ethanol or other organic liquids; and as an extractant. In cosmetic concentrations, it is non-irritant for the skin but can leave an irritant effect on the mucous membranes.

Propyl Alcohol can be absorbed through the skin. Narcotic effects may be observed after absorption of large amounts.

Synonyms
1-propanol
n-propanol

Toxicological data

LD 50 oral (rats)ca. 8000 mg/kg
D 50 dermal (rabbits)ca. 4000 mg/kg
LC 50 inhalation (rats/4 hours exposure)ca. 4000 mg/m 3 = 9.8 mg/l

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