Propylene oxide
Uses and applications
This is a volatile, colorless, inflammable liquid with a characteristic odor similar to ether. Known as the universal reagent for its excellent chemical properties, it is a highly reactive chemical used as a feedstock for the production of many commercial materials.
Most products obtained from this compound are known as derivatives of propylene oxide:
- Polyether polyols: Used in flexible or rigid foams.
- Propylene glycols: can be used as a food additive, excipient, in cosmetics, antifreeze, de-icing systems...
- Repsol built its first propylene oxide and styrene monomer (PO/SM) plant in Puertollano, Spain, in the early 70s. It was the first PO/SM plant in the world. In 2000, Repsol built a new PO/SM plant in Tarragona, which doubled the size of the initial installation.
Repsol’s capacity for innovation is based on the knowledge and experience developed at the Repsol Technology Lab, one of the largest in Europe, and on the continuous improvement and technological innovation in Repsol’s own industrial complexes. All this knowledge has made this process an international benchmark.
See our online grade catalog
Download the technical and safety data sheets
Want to know more?
Want to know more?
We’re here for whatever you need, ready to answer your questions.
Updated as of July 2026