Description
How is Propylene Oxide Used?
Propylene Oxide is used as a chemical building block in a range of products. Examples of these socalled PO-derivative products are:
polyether polyols (poly-alcohols) for use in urethane applications such as rigid foam, flexible
foam, and Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomer (CASE) systems;
polyether polyols for use in non-urethane applications such as surfactants and oil
demulsifiers;
propylene glycol for aeroplane de-icers, fibre glass-reinforced unsaturated polyester resins,
and hydraulic fluids;
propylene oxide glycol ethers and propylene carbonate solvents;
butanediol for engineering plastics and fibres;
polyalkylene glycol fuel additives and lubricants;
modified starches and allyl alcohols.
Health, Safety and Environmental Considerations
Propylene Oxide is harmful if swallowed, toxic in contact with skin and if inhaled. Propylene
Oxide is not an aspiration hazard. It is irritating to the eyes and the respiratory system, but not to
skin. Some cases of skin sensitisation (dermatitis) in humans have been reported, however, tests
with laboratory animals did not indicate a sensitising potential.
