Hexylene glycol is a colorless organic compound, which is also known as 2-Methyl-2,4-pentanediol (MPD).
Hexylene glycol is viscous in nature and miscible with fatty acids, organic solvents, and water.
It is manufactured utilizing diacetone alcohol through the hydrogenation process. Hexylene glycol possess various characteristic properties such as low volatility, high viscosity, and high emulsion-stabilizing properties. It is used as an emulsifying agent or surfactant in various applications such as cosmetics and personal care, antifreeze solutions, industrial and household cleaners, and industrial solvents.
Additionally, hexylene glycol is also used in coating applications as a component in varnishes, lacquers, printing inks, and water- and oil-based paints.
It is used as a solvent in dye preparation, inert ingredient in pesticide formulation, coupling agent in hydraulic fluids, and anti-caking agent in the cement formulation process.
Hexylene glycol finds application as a setting agent in the manufacture of textiles and as an intermediate for synthesis of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals.