Propylene glycol (C3​H8​O2​), a versatile organic compound, extends its utility far beyond its well-known role as an antifreeze agent in automotive and industrial applications. Its unique combination of properties, including its low freezing point depression, low toxicity, and ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, has led to its widespread adoption across numerous industries. In the food and beverage sector, propylene glycol acts as a humectant to retain moisture in baked goods, a solvent for flavors and colors, and a processing aid. Its low toxicity makes it a preferred alternative to ethylene glycol in applications where incidental contact with food is possible.

The pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries utilize propylene glycol as a humectant, solvent, and emollient in various formulations, including creams, lotions, and injectable solutions. Its ability to penetrate the skin enhances the delivery of active ingredients. In industrial applications, beyond antifreeze, propylene glycol serves as a heat transfer fluid, a hydraulic fluid, and a solvent in paints, coatings, and inks. It is also a key feedstock in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, used in boat building, automotive parts, and construction materials.

The growing demand for these end-use products directly influences the propylene glycol market. Furthermore, the increasing focus on bio-based chemicals has led to the development of bio-based propylene glycol production routes, offering a more sustainable alternative to the traditional petrochemical process. The market dynamics of propylene glycol are influenced by the performance of its key end-use industries, fluctuations in the price of its primary feedstock propylene, and the increasing adoption of bio-based alternatives. Regional variations in industrial activity and climate also contribute to the diverse global landscape of the propylene glycol market. Understanding these multifaceted applications and the evolving sustainability landscape is crucial to appreciating the significant and expanding role of propylene glycol in modern industrial and consumer products.