Glycerol (data page)

Glycerol, also known as glycerin or propane-1,2,3-triol, is a simple polyol compound. It is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting and non-toxic. Glycerol has three hydroxyl (OH) groups, making it highly soluble in water and hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture from the air).

Glycerol's chemical formula is C3H8O3. It is a building block for lipids and is found in all animal and plant fats. It's produced commercially, often as a byproduct of soap manufacturing (saponification) or biodiesel production. It can also be synthesized from propylene.

Key properties include a high boiling point, low vapor pressure, and the ability to act as a humectant, solvent, and emollient. Due to these properties, glycerol has a wide range of applications in various industries including:

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as a humectant, solvent, and lubricant in creams, lotions, syrups, and suppositories.
• Cosmetics: A common ingredient in skin care products, soaps, and hair care products for its moisturizing properties.
• Food Industry: Used as a humectant, solvent, and sweetener; also used as a filler in low-fat foods.
• Industrial Applications: Used in the production of polymers, explosives (e.g., nitroglycerin), antifreeze, and as a feedstock for other chemicals.

Glycerol is generally considered safe for human consumption and topical application.