Sodium Propyl Paraben
Sodium Propyl Paraben is the sodium salt of propylparaben, a white to off-white crystalline powder or granule with the chemical formula C₁₀H₁₂NaO₃. It is a water-soluble antimicrobial preservative used extensively in personal care, pharmaceutical, and food products. Packaged in 25kg containers, it offers excellent stability and effectiveness over a wide pH range. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties make it a reliable choice for preventing microbial contamination and extending shelf life.
Uses
Primary Uses
Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Preservative in Creams and Lotions: Inhibits microbial growth to maintain product safety.
- Shampoos & Conditioners: Prevents spoilage from bacteria and mold in aqueous formulations.
- Makeup Products: Used in foundations, mascaras, and lipsticks for shelf-life extension.
- Deodorants & Antiperspirants: Maintains microbial integrity in water- and oil-based systems.
- Wet Wipes & Facial Cleansers: Ensures hygiene by suppressing bacterial proliferation.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Topical Medications: Preserves ointments, creams, and gels.
- Oral Suspensions & Syrups: Ensures microbiological stability in aqueous solutions.
- Injectable Solutions (Non-reactive Preservative): Occasionally used where sodium salts are preferred.
- Ophthalmic Preparations: Used in combination with other parabens for eye drops and gels.
Food Industry
- Preservative in Processed Foods: Used in baked goods, jams, jellies, and sauces (where permitted by regulation).
- Beverages: Controls yeast and mold in soft drinks and flavored waters.
- Snack Foods & Confectionery: Prevents fungal growth and spoilage in high-moisture environments.
Veterinary Products
- Preservative in Animal Health Formulations: Maintains shelf life of topical and oral animal treatments.
Secondary Uses
Industrial Applications
- Water-Based Adhesives: Preserves glue and bonding agents from microbial degradation.
- Paints & Coatings: Prevents mold formation in water-based interior paints.
- Textile Chemicals: Preserves dye pastes and softening agents.
Household Products
- Cleaning Solutions: Maintains product integrity in disinfectant wipes and sprays.
- Air Fresheners: Prevents degradation in gel- and water-based formulations.
Laboratory & Research
- Microbiological Media: Occasionally included in selective culture media as a fungistatic agent.
Pet Care Products
Shampoos & Sprays for Pets: Used in grooming products to prevent microbial spoilage.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium 4-hydroxybenzoate propyl ester
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium Propyl Paraben
- CAS Number: 35285-69-9
- HS Code: 2918.29.00
- Synonyms: Propylparaben sodium salt, Sodium propyl-p-hydroxybenzoate
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder or granules
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; faint odor
- Solubility: Freely soluble in water and alcohol
- Melting Point: Decomposes above 300°C
- pH (1% solution): 9.5–10.5
- Molecular Weight: 206.19 g/mol
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under GHS
- Toxicity: LD₅₀ (oral, rat) > 5000 mg/kg
- Exposure Limits: No established occupational exposure limits
- Allergen Status: Generally recognized as non-sensitizing; rare allergic reactions reported
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; protect from light and moisture
- Container Type: 25kg fiber drums or HDPE-lined bags
- Shelf Life: 24 months in original sealed packaging
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust inhalation; use with appropriate PPE
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- REACH Compliant
- FDA Approved (21 CFR 184.1670) – GRAS when used within limits
- USP/NF Compliant – Available in pharmaceutical grade
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) – Assessed as safe when used as directed
- E Number: E217 (for food use; subject to regional restrictions)
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low; not expected to bioaccumulate
- Bioaccumulation: Not bioaccumulative
Aquatic Impact: Minimal at typical use concentrations
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, safety glasses, dust mask
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid creating dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed; segregate from strong oxidizers
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large quantity consumed
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; may decompose at high temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry chemical, foam, or CO₂
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, phenolic vapors