Tripropylene Glycol
Tripropylene Glycol (TPG): Features
Tripropylene glycol (TPG, CAS no. 24800-44-0, EC no. 246-466-0) is a chemical made up of three linked propylene glycol units and two hydroxyl (alcohol) groups. Representative chemical structure of TPG (obtained from PubChem) is presented on the right. Carbon (C) atoms are represented by gray balls, oxygen (O) atoms by red balls and hydrogen (H) atoms by white balls.
Tripropylene Glycol (TPG): Markets
In personal care cosmetics, TPG functions as a humectant, antioxidant, and emulsion stabilizer. Tripropylene glycol has mostly been reported to be used in fragrances and deodorants.
Tripropylene glycol is used as a raw material in the production of some polymers like polymers polyesters and alkyd resins, and various chemicals like insecticides, ethers, and esters. It also was reported to have carrier and plasticizer uses.
Tripropylene Glycol (TPG): Regulatory
Tripropylene glycol toxicity has been tested and found to be non-hazardous to human health and the environment under normal conditions of use. Tripropylene glycol is biodegradable in the environment.
Classification
Most countries have adopted the UN Globally Harmonised System (GHS) for Classification and Labelling. In Europe GHS is implemented under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, also known as the CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) Regulation. In the United States GHS is implemented under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). Tripropylene glycol is not classified as hazardous under GHS.
Tripropylene Glycol (TPG): Health Summary
Humans are exposed to TPG primarily through skin contact. Like DPG, TPG is expected to have negligible absorption following dermal exposure. Tripropylene glycol is expected to be readily absorbed by oral exposure but is quickly metabolized to DPG, PG, and carbon dioxide.
Studies show that TPG has a very low degree of acute toxicity and is non-irritating to the eye and skin. Tests have shown TPG is not genotoxic nor a reprotoxicant.
In the environment, the low Log Kow value indicates TPG is expected to have a low potential for bioaccumulation and adsorption/desorption. Tripropylene glycol is readily biodegradable in fresh water and in seawater and is not expected to be persistent in the environment. Based on test data, TPG presents a low hazard to aquatic organisms.