Description
Propanediol 1,3 , also known as 1,3-Propanediol (PDO) or Trimethylene Glycol, is a high-purity, plant-derived glycol that serves as a high-performance, natural alternative to petroleum-based glycols like propylene glycol and 1,3-butylene glycol. Produced predominantly through the bio-fermentation of plant-derived glucose, it is a clear, colorless, and odorless liquid widely used across cosmetic, personal care, household cleaning, and industrial applications.
Known commercially under prominent trade names such as Zemea (for personal care and cosmetics), Susterra (for industrial applications, polyurethanes, and heat transfer fluids), and Bio-PDO, this ingredient combines exceptional humectancy with a light, non-sticky skin feel.
Key Performance Features & Benefits
Natural & Bio-Based: 100% bio-based ingredient certified by natural standards (Cosmos/Ecocert compliant), making it ideal for clean-label and eco-friendly formulations.
Enhanced Skin Hydration:Propanediol 1,3 Functions as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and boosting overall hydration without leaving a greasy or tacky residue.
Preservative & Performance Booster: Acts as a efficacy booster for preservatives, synergistic active ingredients, and botanical extracts, while enhancing clarity and viscosity control in clear liquid formulations.
Low Irritation Profile: Exceptionally gentle on sensitive skin, offering a non-irritating, non-sensitizing alternative to synthetic glycols.
Technical Specifications & Product Properties
| Property | Specification / Typical Value |
| Chemical Name | 1,3-Propanediol / Trimethylene Glycol |
| Common Trade Names | Zemea®, Susterra®, Bio-PDO™ |
| CAS Number | 504-63-2 |
| Assay / Purity | ≥ 99.8% |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless, viscous liquid |
| Odor | Odorless to very faint characteristic scent |
| Solubility | Fully miscible in water, ethanol, and organic solvents |
| Origin | 100% Plant-derived (Bio-fermented corn sugar) |
Primary Applications
Cosmetics & Skincare: Used as a solvent, humectant, and slip agent in facial serums, moisturizers, cleansers, sheet masks, and sunscreens.
Hair Care & Bath Products: Formulated into shampoos, conditioners, and body washes to improve texture, foam density, and hair moisture retention.
Industrial & Home Care: Serves as a sustainable building block for bio-based polymers (such as PTT fibers), bio-glycol heat transfer fluids, engine coolants, and eco-friendly household detergents.








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