Propylparaben (Prop BH)
Prop BH, also known as Propylparaben or Propyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate, is an organic compound belonging to the paraben family of preservatives. It appears as colorless small crystals or a white crystalline powder with a characteristic mild odor and a slightly bitter taste. The compound is practically insoluble in cold water but readily soluble in alcohols, ethers, and other organic solvents. Propylparaben is widely recognized for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly effective against molds, yeasts, and bacteria. Propylparaben is manufactured for use as a preservative in various industrial applications and is not intended for direct human consumption without appropriate certification.
Propylparaben (Prop BH)
Primary Uses
1. Food and Beverage Chemicals
-
Food preservative used in baked goods, sauces, pickles, processed meats, dairy products, and beverages to inhibit molds, yeasts, and bacteria
-
Protective agent in food coloring applications to prevent microbial spoilage
2. Cosmetic and Personal Care Chemicals
-
Preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, makeup products, deodorants, and sunscreen formulations to extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth
-
Primary antimicrobial agent in personal care preservation systems
3. Pharmaceutical Chemicals
-
Preservative in liquid pharmaceuticals including syrups, suspensions, and topical preparations
-
Antimicrobial agent in pharmaceutical formulations requiring microbial protection
4. Agricultural Chemicals
-
Preservative in animal feed and pet food formulations to prevent mold growth and maintain feed quality
Secondary Uses
1. Specialty and Fine Chemicals
-
Preservative in adhesives, paints, coatings, and industrial cleaning products to prevent microbial spoilage
2. Textile Chemicals
-
Preservative in textile finishing solutions and storage treatments
1. Basic Identification Attributes
-
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
-
Common/Trade Name: Propylparaben; Prop BH; Nipasol
-
CAS Number: 94-13-3
-
HS Code: 2918.29
-
Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₂O₃
-
Molecular Weight: 180.20 g/mol
-
Synonyms: Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, Propylparaben, Nipasol, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid propyl ester, Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
-
Physical State: Crystalline solid (powder or crystals)
-
Color & Odor: White to colorless; characteristic mild odor; slightly bitter taste
-
Melting Point: 95–98°C
-
Flash Point: 124.6°C
-
Density: 1.063–1.1 g/cm³
-
Solubility: Insoluble in cold water; slightly soluble in hot water; freely soluble in ethanol, methanol, ether, and acetone
-
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; sensitive to light and strong bases
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
-
GHS Classification:
-
H315: Causes skin irritation
-
H319: Causes serious eye irritation
-
H335: May cause respiratory irritation
-
-
Toxicity: LD₅₀ oral (rat): > 5,000 mg/kg; ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake): 0–10 mg/kg body weight (FAO/WHO)
-
Irritation: May cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract
-
Flammability: Combustible solid
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
-
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed. Protect from moisture.
-
Container Type: Multi-layer paper bags with polyethylene liner, fiber drums, or plastic pails
-
Shelf Life: 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions
-
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and inhalation; use with adequate ventilation; avoid skin contact; keep away from strong oxidizing agents
-
Storage Measures: Store separately from strong bases and oxidizing agents; protect from moisture
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
-
Regulatory Status:
-
FDA: GRAS for food use under 21 CFR 184.1670
-
FAO/WHO: ADI established at 0–10 mg/kg body weight
-
EU: Authorized food additive under E216 with usage restrictions
-
TSCA, DSL, EINECS: Listed
-
-
Certifications: Food grade, pharmaceutical grade, USP grade, and cosmetic grade available
-
Use Restrictions: Concentration limits vary by application and jurisdiction
6. Environmental & Health Impact
-
Biodegradability: Moderately biodegradable
-
Ecotoxicity: May be toxic to aquatic organisms at high concentrations
-
Bioaccumulation: Moderate potential for bioaccumulation
1. Safety Handling Precautions
-
PPE Required: Chemical safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile), lab coat, and dust respirator when airborne dust is generated
-
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; minimize dust generation; avoid breathing dust; wash thoroughly after handling
-
Storage Measures: Store away from strong oxidizing agents and strong bases; protect from moisture; maintain dry, moderate temperature conditions
-
Hygiene Practices: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse
2. First Aid Measures
-
Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
-
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
-
Eye Contact: Rinse with lukewarm, gently flowing water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
-
Ingestion: Rinse mouth thoroughly. Do NOT induce vomiting. Drink one or two glasses of water. Seek medical attention if large quantities are swallowed.
3. Firefighting Measures
-
Fire Hazards: Combustible solid
-
Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide
-
Special Procedures: Wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Use water spray to cool exposed containers.
-
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, acrid smoke
Related products
Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl Alcohol is an aromatic alcohol with a mild pleasant odor and clear, colorless liquid appearance. It serves as a versatile solvent, preservative, and intermediate in chemical synthesis. Benzyl Alcohol is widely used across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paints, coatings, and as a bacteriostatic agent in injectable drugs. Its relatively low toxicity and good solvent properties make it valuable in both industrial and consumer products.
Bright Red Color Water Soluble
Bright Red Color Water Soluble is a synthetic water-soluble dye known for its vivid, intense red hue and excellent clarity in aqueous solutions. It dissolves readily in water, offering uniform dispersion and strong colorfastness across a wide pH range. This dye is widely used in textile dyeing, food and beverage coloring, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints, and laboratory settings. Its chemical stability and bright coloration make it suitable for industrial, research, and commercial applications requiring reliable red pigmentation in water-based systems.
Liquid Strawberry Flavor
Liquid Strawberry Flavor is a premium quality flavoring agent that captures the fresh, sweet, and slightly tart essence of ripe strawberries. Widely used in the food and beverage industry, this flavor enhances the taste and aroma of a variety of products including beverages, confectionery, dairy, and baked goods. It is water and alcohol soluble, allowing easy incorporation into multiple formulations. The natural and authentic strawberry profile makes it ideal for creating flavorful and appealing consumer products.
Liquid Vanilla Flavor
Liquid Vanilla Flavor is a high-quality, natural and synthetic blend designed to provide the rich, creamy, and sweet aroma characteristic of vanilla beans. Widely used in the food and beverage industry, this versatile flavoring enhances the taste profile of baked goods, dairy products, beverages, and confectionery. Its excellent solubility in water and alcohol allows for easy incorporation into a wide range of formulations. Liquid Vanilla Flavor offers a smooth, authentic vanilla note that improves product appeal and consumer satisfaction.
Methyl Paraben
Methyl Paraben is a white to off-white crystalline powder widely used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is a member of the paraben family of preservatives known for their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi. Methyl Paraben helps extend the shelf life of products by preventing microbial growth without affecting the product's texture or color.
Orange Fragrance Oil
Orange Fragrance Oil is a highly concentrated aromatic oil that delivers a fresh, vibrant, and sweet citrus scent reminiscent of ripe oranges. It is formulated for use in a variety of applications including personal care products, household items, and air fresheners. This fragrance oil offers excellent scent throw, stability, and compatibility with different base materials such as waxes, solvents, and emulsions. Its refreshing aroma makes it a popular choice for perfuming soaps, candles, detergents, and cosmetic formulations, providing a natural and uplifting citrus experience.
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.
Watermelon Fragrance Oil
Watermelon Fragrance Oil is a premium synthetic fragrance designed to capture the fresh, juicy, and sweet aroma of ripe watermelon. This fragrance oil is widely used in personal care, home fragrance, and industrial applications due to its bright, refreshing scent profile and excellent stability in both oil- and water-based formulations. It provides a vibrant, fruity fragrance that evokes summer freshness and is suitable for use in a variety of cosmetic, household, and air care products. The oil exhibits good heat stability and is compatible with many product bases, making it ideal for perfumery and scent marketing.

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders