Glycerine

Product Name: Glycerine/glycerin/glycerol

Purity Grade: BP Pharmaceutical Grade

CAS Number: 56-81-5

Size: 1 litre to 200 litre

Appearance: Water clear liquid

Other Features: Hydrophilic/Miscible with water

Glycerine is a trihydric alcohol, which means it contains three hydroxyl (-OH) groups. It is derived from natural fats and oils through a process known as hydrolysis or transesterification. This compound is not only water-soluble but also has hygroscopic properties, which means it attracts and retains moisture from the environment. Its chemical formula is C3H8O3, and it has a sweet taste.

Properties of Glycerine

Glycerine possesses several noteworthy properties that contribute to its widespread usage. Here are some key characteristics of this compound:

1. Viscosity: Glycerine has a high viscosity, which makes it an excellent lubricant. It is commonly used in various industries to reduce friction and wear.
2. Hygroscopicity: As mentioned earlier, glycerine has hygroscopic properties, making it a popular ingredient in moisturizers and skin care products. It helps to keep the skin hydrated by attracting and retaining moisture.
3. Solubility: Glycerine is a highly soluble compound, which means it easily dissolves in both water and alcohol. This property makes it a valuable ingredient in various formulations.
4. Sweetness: Glycerine has a sweet taste, which makes it a suitable additive for sweetening beverages and certain medicinal syrups.

Uses of Glycerine

1. Pharmaceutical Industry: Glycerine plays a significant role in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used as a solvent, preservative, and sweetener in various oral medications, cough syrups, and topical ointments. Moreover, it is an essential component in the production of suppositories and capsules.
2. Cosmetics and Personal Care: Glycerine has immense importance in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It is widely used in moisturizers, lotions, creams, soaps, and shampoos due to its moisturizing and hydrating properties. Additionally, it acts as a humectant by attracting moisture to the skin, keeping it soft and supple.
3. Food and Beverage Industry: Glycerine finds applications in the food and beverage industry as a food additive, sweetener, and preservative. It is commonly used in baked goods, confectioneries, soft drinks, and dairy products. Its sweet taste makes it an ideal substitute for sugar in certain low-calorie foods and beverages.
4. Industrial Applications: Glycerine has numerous uses in industrial applications. It is utilized as a lubricant, plasticizer, solvent, and component in antifreeze and hydraulic fluids. Due to its low toxicity and excellent stability, it is widely preferred in various industrial processes.

Benefits of Glycerine

1. Moisturizing: Glycerine's hygroscopic nature helps in retaining moisture, making it an effective moisturizer for the skin. Regular use of glycerine-based products can prevent dryness and keep the skin hydrated.
2. Gentle on the Skin: Glycerine is non-comedogenic and non-irritating, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is often recommended by dermatologists to alleviate skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
3. Humectant Properties: The humectant properties of glycerine make it an excellent ingredient in hair care products. It helps to lock in moisture within the hair strands, preventing dryness and frizz.
4. Safe and Environmentally Friendly: Glycerine is considered safe for human consumption and has minimal environmental impact. It is biodegradable and does not contribute to water pollution.