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 is open to any new member, whereby the companies are jointly preparing the REACH dossier in order to complete it in the most efficient and effective manner. The PO PG consortium will facilitate the registration of these substances as required by the regulation. The Consortium is managed by ReachCentrum (consortium manager: Mike Kingsland). For any enquiries about joining please contact ReachCentrum.

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 EN (revision 2, July 2009) - Revision 1 (May 2001) available in DE , ES, FR, IT) (translations of revision 2 in preparation)
• Guidelines for the Handling and Distritrubtion Propylene Glycol USP/EP (pharmaceutical grade monopropylene glycol) revised in March 2009 (USP/EP) available in EN, DE, FR, IT, and ES.
• Environment friendly couplings for Propylene Oxide Transportation Equipment. Download.

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