The Low-Toxicity Glycol Ether Solvent Driving Coatings, Inks, Cleaners, and Semiconductor-Grade Electronics: 1-Methoxy-2-propanol (PGME, CAS# 107-98-2)

1-Methoxy-2-propanol (CAS# 107-98-2), also known as PGME, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol 1-methyl ether, or α-propylene glycol monomethyl ether, is a low-toxicity glycol ether solvent with the molecular formula C₄H₁₀O₂ and a molecular weight of 90.12 g/mol. Its molecular structure features a secondary alcohol with a methoxy group on the adjacent carbon—the α-isomer of propylene glycol monomethyl ether, which is the commercially and toxicologically preferred form. This architecture combines a hydrophilic hydroxyl group with a lipophilic ether group, rendering the compound completely miscible with water and most organic solvents while providing strong solvency for a broad spectrum of polar and non-polar substances. PGME is a clear, colorless liquid with a faint ether-like odor, a boiling point of 118–120°C, a flash point of 31–33°C (closed cup), a density of approximately 0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C, and a viscosity of 1.75 mPa·s at 20°C. It is produced industrially by the catalytic addition of propylene oxide and methanol.

PGME occupies a strategically important position among glycol ethers as a lower-toxicity alternative to ethylene glycol ethers and a fast-evaporating active solvent and coupling agent. Its balanced evaporation rate—the fastest in the glycol ether class at 0.62 relative to *n*-butyl acetate—makes it a workhorse in waterborne and solvent-borne coatings, printing inks, industrial cleaners, and fuel additives. High-purity grades with tightly controlled α-isomer content and ultralow metal levels are increasingly specified in semiconductor photoresist processing and electronic component cleaning. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important glycol ether solvent.

Key Properties and Reactivity Profile

1-Methoxy-2-propanol (CAS# 107-98-2) is a low-toxicity, water-miscible glycol ether whose value derives from its amphiphilic molecular architecture, fast evaporation rate, and broad solvency.

Key physicochemical parameters include:

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 90.12 g/mol
• CAS Number: 107-98-2
• EINECS Number: 203-539-1
• Synonyms: PGME; Propylene glycol monomethyl ether; Propylene glycol 1-methyl ether; α-Propylene glycol monomethyl ether; 1-Methoxy-2-hydroxypropane; Dowanol PM
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Faint ether-like odor
• Boiling Point: 118–120°C
• Melting Point: −97°C
• Flash Point: 31–33°C (closed cup)
• Density: ~0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C
• Viscosity: 1.75 mPa·s at 20°C
• Vapor Pressure: 1.45 kPa (10.9 mmHg) at 25°C; 11.5 hPa at 20°C
• Evaporation Rate (BuAc = 1): 0.62
• Water Solubility: Miscible in all proportions
• Purity: ≥99.0% (industrial); ≥99.5% α-isomer (high-purity); electronic grade ≥99.9999% metals basis available
• Storage: Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources; keep container sealed
• GHS Classification: Warning; H226 (Flammable liquid and vapour), H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness)
• Transport Classification: UN 3092 (1-Methoxy-2-propanol), Class 3, Packing Group III

The compound’s reactivity is defined by its secondary hydroxyl group, which can undergo esterification, etherification, and oxidation, and by its ether linkage, which confers chemical stability and solvency. The hydrophilic hydroxyl and lipophilic ether groups enable PGME to function as a coupling agent that bridges water and resin phases, and as an active solvent that dissolves resins, dyes, and oils without phase separation. The α-isomer (1-methoxy-2-propanol) is the desired form; the β-isomer (2-methoxy-1-propanol) is a process impurity that must be minimized for REACH compliance and toxicological reasons. PGME is readily biodegradable and does not cause skin sensitisation.

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for PGME (CAS# 107-98-2) is concentrated in four primary sectors: paints and coatings (approximately 40–45% of global consumption), printing inks (approximately 15–20%), industrial and household cleaners (approximately 15–20%), and electronics, agrochemicals, and fuel additives (approximately 20–25%). Its low toxicity, fast evaporation, and broad solvency serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth. The global propylene glycol methyl ether market was valued at approximately USD 1.45 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.3 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 5.4%. The PGME product segment alone is expected to reach USD 761 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 2.4%.

In paints and coatings, PGME is an efficient active solvent and coupling agent for water-based paints, alkyd resin lacquers, and nitrocellulose lacquers. It significantly improves coating leveling, stability, and drying performance, and is widely used in automotive paints and general industrial finishes. In waterborne systems, PGME optimizes leveling and extends drying time to ensure uniform coating effects.

In printing inks, PGME is a key component in solvent-based printing inks, ballpoint and fountain pen inks, and inkjet formulations. It improves printing accuracy and stability by adjusting viscosity and rheology, and enhances flow and drying properties.

In industrial and household cleaners, PGME acts as an effective coupling agent and solvent in household and industrial cleaners, rust removers, glass cleaners, and hard-surface cleaners. Its low toxicity relative to ethylene glycol ethers makes it preferable for consumer-oriented formulations.

In electronics and specialty applications, high-purity electronic-grade PGME plays a significant role in cleaning electronic components such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs) , semiconductor photoresist processing, and PCB cleaning. Ultrapure grades with ≥99.9999% metals basis are available for advanced semiconductor nodes. PGME is also used as an anti-icing agent for jet fuel, an additive for brake fluids, and an important intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides such as metolachlor.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for PGME (CAS# 107-98-2) features a pattern of “integrated petrochemical corporations, specialty glycol ether producers, and Chinese manufacturers serving distinct market segments.”

In the global high-purity and branded segment, key international suppliers include Dow Inc. (Dowanol PM), BASF SE, Shell Global, Eastman Chemical Company, LyondellBasell, Daicel Corporation, Shiny Chemical Industrial, Chang Chun Group, and San Fu Chemical. These companies offer high-purity PGME for coatings, inks, cleaners, and electronics, with comprehensive quality documentation and global distribution networks. The top five global players hold approximately 48% of revenue share in the semiconductor-grade PGME segment.

In the industrial and large-scale production segment, XinChem is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-purity 1-methoxy-2-propanol from China, offering the compound with stringent quality standards for use in waterborne coatings, printing inks, industrial cleaners, and electronic-grade cleaning applications. XinChem provides the compound as a clear, colorless liquid with comprehensive quality documentation, batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (COA), α-isomer content control, and globally compliant REACH, ISO 9001, and GMP-aligned manufacturing. The company emphasizes that PGME is a low-toxicity glycol ether solvent with excellent coupling and solvency properties, fast evaporation, and miscibility with water and most organic solvents, suitable for a wide range of performance-critical applications. XinChem offers custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial tons. Chinese production is concentrated in major petrochemical regions including Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces, with production based on the catalytic addition of propylene oxide and methanol.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global PGME market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific and consumption distributed across Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe.

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global PGME market, accounting for over 40% of global share in 2024. China is the largest production and consumption hub, supported by robust domestic demand, supportive policies, and a strong manufacturing base. Japan, South Korea, and India are also significant producers and consumers. The region’s competitive advantages include integrated propylene oxide and methanol supply chains, cost-effective production, and proximity to rapidly growing coatings, inks, electronics, and agrochemical industries. The semiconductor-grade PGME market in the region is expanding rapidly, with the global semiconductor PGME market valued at USD 397.25 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD 575.01 million by 2031 at a CAGR of 5.90%.

North America remains a key market for high-purity PGME, driven by demand from the automotive coatings, industrial cleaners, and electronics industries. The United States hosts major producers and formulators, with Dow and Eastman serving as key suppliers.

Europe is characterized by stringent REACH and CLP requirements, with a strong focus on lower-toxicity glycol ethers and α-isomer purity. European coatings, cleaners, and electronics manufacturers demand high-purity PGME with comprehensive documentation. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are key markets.

Japan and South Korea represent specialized markets for electronic-grade PGME, with Daicel, Shiny Chemical, and Chang Chun Group serving semiconductor and display manufacturing applications.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a flammable glycol ether with industrial and consumer applications, PGME (CAS# 107-98-2) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies.

GHS classification and handling: PGME is classified with the signal word “Warning”. Hazard statements include H226 (Flammable liquid and vapour) and H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness). Precautionary statements include P210 (Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces), P233 (Keep container tightly closed), P240 (Ground and bond container and receiving equipment), P241 (Use explosion-proof electrical equipment), P242 (Use only non-sparking tools), P243 (Take action to prevent static discharges), P261 (Avoid breathing vapours), P264 (Wash skin thoroughly after handling), P271 (Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area), P280 (Wear protective gloves, eye protection, and face protection), P303+P361+P353 (IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing; rinse skin with water/shower), P304+P340 (IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing), P312 (Call a POISON CENTER or doctor if you feel unwell), P370+P378 (In case of fire: Use dry sand, dry chemical, or alcohol-resistant foam to extinguish), P403+P235 (Store in a well-ventilated place; keep cool), P405 (Store locked up), and P501 (Dispose of contents/container to an approved waste disposal plant).

Occupational exposure limits: The OSHA PEL, NIOSH REL, and ACGIH TLV are all 100 ppm (360 mg/m³) as an 8-hour TWA, with a STEL of 150 ppm (553 mg/m³). The compound is not classified as a skin sensitiser, and the oral LD50 in rats is 5,660 mg/kg, with a dermal LD50 of 13,000 mg/kg.

Regulatory compliance: In the European Union, PGME is registered under REACH at ≥100,000 to <1,000,000 tonnes per annum and is subject to CLP classification. The α-isomer is the REACH-compliant form; β-isomer content must be controlled. In the United States, PGME is regulated under TSCA and is subject to OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requirements.

Transport information: PGME is classified as a dangerous good for international transport under UN 3092 (1-Methoxy-2-propanol), Hazard Class 3, Packing Group III.

Environmental considerations: PGME is readily biodegradable and has low bioaccumulation potential. It is not classified as PBT or vPvB. Its complete water miscibility requires appropriate containment to prevent environmental release, but its biodegradability limits persistence.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for PGME is positive, supported by several key growth drivers. The global PGME market is projected to grow from USD 1.45 billion in 2024 to USD 2.3 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.4%.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Shift toward lower-toxicity glycol ethers: Regulatory and consumer pressure on ethylene glycol ethers drives demand for PGME as a safer alternative in coatings, cleaners, and consumer products.
2. Expansion of waterborne and high-solids coatings: The growing demand for low-VOC architectural and automotive coatings supports PGME consumption as a coupling agent and active solvent.
3. Growth in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing: The expanding semiconductor industry, particularly in Asia-Pacific, drives demand for electronic-grade PGME in photoresist processing, LCD cleaning, and PCB manufacturing.
4. Expansion of printing ink applications: The growing packaging and commercial printing industries support PGME demand as a solvent that improves flow, drying, and print stability.
5. Growth in agrochemical intermediates: PGME’s role as an intermediate in metolachlor and other herbicide synthesis provides a stable demand pillar.

Challenges and considerations:

• Flammability and handling requirements: The compound’s classification as a flammable liquid (H226, UN 3092) requires specialized handling and shipping procedures.
• β-isomer control: REACH compliance requires tight control of the β-isomer (2-methoxy-1-propanol) content, adding analytical and process complexity.
• Feedstock price volatility: Propylene oxide and methanol pricing fluctuations impact production costs.
• Competition from alternative solvents: The market faces competition from other glycol ethers and bio-based solvents.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and glycol ether solvents, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the coatings, inks, cleaning, electronics, and agrochemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality 1-Methoxy-2-propanol (PGME, CAS# 107-98-2) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for coatings manufacturers, ink producers, and industrial customers seeking this low-toxicity, high-performance glycol ether solvent.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its PGME products. The production process incorporates advanced catalytic addition of propylene oxide and methanol followed by multi-stage purification, enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥99.0% (industrial grade), ≥99.5% α-isomer (high-purity grade), and electronic-grade material with ≥99.9999% metals basis. Strict process control ensures low β-isomer content, low moisture, low acidity, and batch-to-batch reproducibility.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting purity (GC), α-isomer content, water content (Karl Fischer), acidity, density, and impurity profiles. XinChem offers batch-specific COA, customizable packaging, and globally compliant REACH, ISO 9001, and GMP-aligned manufacturing.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers PGME in multiple grades: Industrial Grade (≥99.0%) for coatings, inks, and cleaners; High-Purity Grade (≥99.5% α-isomer) for demanding coupling and electronic applications; and Electronic Grade with ultralow metal content for semiconductor and LCD cleaning. The product’s high purity and controlled α-isomer content minimize formulation variability and support REACH compliance.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 90.12 g/mol
• CAS Number: 107-98-2
• EINECS Number: 203-539-1
• Synonyms: PGME; Propylene glycol monomethyl ether; Dowanol PM
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Purity: ≥99.0% (industrial) / ≥99.5% α-isomer (high-purity)
• Boiling Point: 118–120°C
• Flash Point: 31–33°C (closed cup)
• Density: ~0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C
• Evaporation Rate (BuAc = 1): 0.62
• Water Solubility: Miscible in all proportions
• Storage: Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources
• GHS Classification: Warning; H226, H336
• Transport Classification: UN 3092, Class 3, Packing Group III

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities to industrial-scale 25 L, 200 L drums, 1,000 kg IBC containers, and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation.

3. Application Fields

As a versatile low-toxicity glycol ether solvent, 1-Methoxy-2-propanol (CAS# 107-98-2) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Paints and Coatings:

• Active solvent and coupling agent for water-based paints and alkyd resin lacquers
• Improves leveling, stability, and drying in automotive and industrial coatings

Printing Inks:

• Key solvent for solvent-based printing inks, ballpoint, and fountain pen inks
• Adjusts viscosity and rheology for printing accuracy and stability

Industrial and Household Cleaners:

• Coupling agent and solvent in degreasers, rust removers, glass cleaners, and hard-surface cleaners

Electronics:

• Electronic-grade cleaning agent for LCDs, semiconductor photoresist processing, and PCBs

Agrochemicals and Fuel Additives:

• Intermediate in the synthesis of metolachlor and other herbicides
• Anti-icing agent for jet fuel and additive for brake fluids

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial tons are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability, including compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations (UN 3092, Class 3, PG III).

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates, staying current with REACH, TSCA, and other regional regulations.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in glycol ether synthesis and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, controlled α-isomer content, and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions, including multiple grades and packaging options.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation including batch-specific COA.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

Email: sales1@xinchem.com

WhatsApp: +86 18049800532