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Glite Dictionary
propanediol

propanediol

8.4
A sweet, clear, thick liquid that people add to antifreeze, brake fluid, and skin lotions
  • noun
  • /ˌproʊpəˈneɪdaɪˌoʊl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : propanodiol
  • Many lotions contain propanediol for its moisturizing properties.

Examples

  • The technician added propanediol to the antifreeze solution.

  • Exposure to large amounts of propanediol can sometimes cause skin irritation.

  • The main ingredient in the formula is propanediol.

  • Many cosmetics now contain propanediol for moisture retention.

  • 1,3-propanediol is commonly used as a humectant in many skincare products.

  • Manufacturers often choose propanediol for its effective antifreeze properties.

  • The cosmetic industry incorporates propanediol as a safe ingredient in creams and lotions.

Synonyms

propylene glycol
vspropanediol
  • Specialized
1 7.2

A sweet, colorless liquid people use in antifreeze and skin creams to keep them moist

is used the same way but without the skin harm warning
ethanediol
vspropanediol
  • Specialized
9.9

A sweet, clear, poisonous liquid people put in car radiators to stop engines freezing and to dissolve other substances

is used similarly but is not described as poisonous and appears in cosmetics

Surface Forms

propanediol singular
propanediols plural

Morphology

propanediol = propane (opaque) = propan + diol

The term is a technical chemical name formed from combining stems ('propan-') and the specialist morpheme 'diol', which is not predictable to an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Propanediol comes from three parts: propane, the gas used for grills, di- meaning 'two', and -ol meaning 'alcohol'. So, propanediol is an alcohol based on propane with two 'alcohol' groups, which helps explain its sweet, oily feel and why it is used in creams and antifreeze.