Methyl oxirane (Propylene oxide)

What is it?

Propylene oxide is a manufacture chemical substance of the epoxide family.

Where is it found and how is it used? 

Propylene oxide is used in the production of other chemicals.  These chemicals are then used in the production of polyurethane foams for the furniture and automotive industries; in coatings, adhesives and sealants; as solvents in paints, inks, coatings, resins, cleaners, food and waxes; in resins in the textile and construction industries; in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics and in engine coolants and aircraft de-icers.

Propylene oxide is also used as a stabilizer in fuels and heating oil and for other chemicals.  It is also used as an anti-corrosion additive for liquid coolants.  Under certain conditions, propylene oxide is used as a food packaging fumigant and as a fumigant for bulk quantities of several food products.  Health Canada has approved propylene oxide as food additive for use as starch modifying agent.

What are its effects?  

More than one national and international organization has classified propylene oxide as possibly carcinogenic or genotoxic to humans. It persists in the environment (in air) but is not bioaccumulative. Experimental data indicate that propylene oxide can cause harm to aquatic organisms.

What are we doing?  

Based on the information obtained through the categorization process, this substance has been identified as a high priority for further action. As such, it has been included in the first batch of substances released under the Government of Canada's Challenge to industry and other stakeholders.

Under the Challenge, the Government of Canada will use existing legal tools and the regulatory process to obtain information from industry and other stakeholders on how they are managing this substance. New information will be reviewed by Government of Canada scientists to determine what further actions may be necessary to ensure that the health of Canadians and their environment are protected. If new information is not provided, the Government of Canada will nevertheless take action on a precautionary basis.  

For more information, see the technical substance profile.