Propylene glycol dinitrate

Propylene Glycol Dinitrate (PGDN) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6N2O6. It is a colorless, oily liquid that is used as a plasticizer, a diluent in trinitrotoluene (TNT), and a component in some propellants and explosives.

Chemical Structure

PGDN is a nitrate ester, a class of compounds that also includes the well-known explosives nitroglycerin and ethylene glycol dinitrate. The molecule consists of a three-carbon propylene glycol backbone with two nitrate groups (-ONO2) attached to the terminal carbons.

Production

PGDN is typically produced by the nitration of propylene glycol using a mixture of sulfuric acid and nitric acid. The reaction is highly exothermic and must be carefully controlled to prevent overheating.

Uses

PGDN is primarily used as a plasticizer, a substance added to materials to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. It is particularly used in the production of cellulose nitrate, a type of plastic.

In addition, PGDN is used as a diluent in TNT. A diluent is a substance that dilutes or reduces the concentration of another substance. In this case, PGDN reduces the sensitivity of TNT, making it safer to handle.

PGDN is also used as a component in some propellants and explosives. It is often mixed with other nitrate esters, such as nitroglycerin and ethylene glycol dinitrate, to create a more powerful explosive mixture.

Safety and Health Effects

Exposure to PGDN can cause a variety of health effects, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health problems, such as damage to the liver and kidneys.

See Also

• Nitrate ester
• Propylene glycol
• Trinitrotoluene
• Cellulose nitrate