Glycerin USP Grade

Product Overview

Glycerin USP Grade, also known as glycerol, is a colorless, odorless, and highly hygroscopic triol with the chemical formula C₃H₈O₃. It exhibits a viscous, syrupy texture and a broad compatibility profile, making it a versatile excipient and humectant. In USP-grade form, it meets stringent quality specifications suitable for pharmaceutical formulations, food processing, and cosmetic applications, with low water content and controlled impurities to minimize hydrolysis and inconsistency in sensitive systems. Typical assay values indicate a high purity, aligning with USP-NF Monograph requirements and supporting reliable performance in critical processes such as moisture retention, solvent activity, and formulation stability. The substance is miscible with water and ethanol, enabling straightforward integration into multi-component systems while maintaining product integrity under standard storage conditions.

In pharmaceutical and cosmetic contexts, glycerin functions as a solvent, plasticizer, humectant, and moisture-retaining agent. Its wide compatibility and established safety profile under controlled handling contribute to predictable rheology and stability across dosage forms and personal care products. The product’s low color and purity specifications support stringent quality control, while its clear, odorless presentation simplifies formulation design and regulatory documentation. This USP-grade glycerin can be incorporated into a range of processes, from aseptic manufacturing to high-phear cosmetic emulsions, delivering reliable performance under typical process temperatures and conditions.

Key Properties

• Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O₃
• Molecular Weight: 92.09 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 188.2°C (at 1 atm)
• Specific Gravity (25°C): 1.261 g/mL
• Water Content: ≤ 0.2 wt%
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Slightly sweet odor
• Viscosity (25°C): 1.412 cP
• Refractive Index (20°C): 1.474
• Residue on Ignition: ≤ 0.005 wt%
• Heavy Metals (as Pb): ≤ 0.5 ppm (typical 0.05 ppm)
• Arsenic (as As): ≤ 0.2 ppm (typical 0.2 ppm)
• Assay (wt %): 99.0 – 100.5 (typical 99.8) via Titration with NaOH

Common Applications

• Pharmaceutical Excipients: Used as a solvent and humectant in various pharmaceutical formulations, enhancing moisture retention and stability in topical and oral products.
• Cosmetic Moisturizer: Formulated as a humectant in skin care products to improve hydration and texture without imparting strong odor or color.
• Food Additive: Serves as a sweetener and humectant in selected food products, supporting moistness and texture with a neutral taste profile.
• Antifreeze Agent: Employed in antifreeze formulations for its low freezing point and compatibility with other glycol-based systems.
• Plasticizer: Acts as a plasticizer in plastics and resins, improving flexibility and processability in polymer formulations.
• Humectant in Tobacco: Maintains moisture levels in tobacco products to preserve quality and handling characteristics.

Safety Precautions

Handle glycerin USP Grade in accordance with standard chemical hygiene practices. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, using materials compatible with glycerin (HDPE or glass). Ensure proper ventilation in storage areas and employ PPE such as gloves and goggles during handling. Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents and maintain containers with closed caps to minimize moisture uptake and contamination. The product is stored and handled in a manner consistent with USP specifications and applicable regulatory guidelines.

In case of exposure, follow standard first aid procedures: eye contact—rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; skin contact—wash with soap and water; inhalation—move to fresh air; ingestion—rinse mouth and seek medical attention if symptoms occur. The SDS indicates a WARNING signal word with no specific GHS hazards listed; however, routine exposure controls, spill response, and emergency procedures should align with institutional safety policies and the product’s SDS recommendations. Transport is not regulated under typical hazmat classifications, but use appropriate labeling and containment during transfer between facilities.

Benefits

✔ High Purity and Compliance – Meets USP-NF Monograph specifications for USP Grade glycerin, ensuring consistent quality across batches and reliable performance in pharmaceutical and food applications.
✔ Excellent Humectancy and Solvency – Superior moisture retention and broad solubility in water and ethanol, enabling versatile formulation options and stable product textures.
✔ Compatibility and Stability – Low water content and controlled impurities reduce hydrolysis risk and support long shelf life under proper storage conditions.