Polypropylene glycol PPG-400 has relatively high overall safety for the human body. According to acute toxicity data, the oral LD₅₀ in rats is > 2000 mg\/kg, classifying it as a low-toxicity substance. Skin irritation tests (New Zealand White rabbits) showed no irritation; eye contact may cause mild and transient irritation (Draize score ≤2 in rabbit eye test, recovery within 24 hours), but no lasting damage. The sensitization test (guinea pig closed patch test) result was negative, indicating no sensitization. Nevertheless, it is still recommended to wear protective gloves and goggles during handling to avoid unnecessary contact.
In the pharmaceutical and personal care fields, PPG-400 has been widely used in suppository bases, ointment bases, cosmetic humectants, and other formulations, with safety meeting relevant application requirements. If accidentally ingested, do not induce vomiting; rinse the mouth with water and drink 1-2 glasses of water; seek medical attention if discomfort occurs. If splashed into the eyes, immediately rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
In terms of the environment, PPG-400 exhibits low toxicity to aquatic organisms—the L(E)C₅₀ values for fish, daphnia, and algae are all >100 mg\/L, causing no acute harm to aquatic ecosystems. However, it should be noted that this substance is not readily biodegradable (≤20% degradation over 28 days under OECD 301B standard), showing some persistence in the environment. Therefore, although low in toxicity, it must not be discharged into sewers, surface water, or groundwater; in case of leakage, contain with inert absorbent materials and dispose of as hazardous waste.
| Toxicity Indicator | Test Result | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Acute oral toxicity (rat) | LD₅₀ > 2000 mg\/kg | Low toxicity |
| Skin irritation (New Zealand White rabbit) | No irritation | Safe |
| Eye irritation (rabbit eye test) | Draize score ≤2, recovery within 24h | Mild transient irritation |
| Skin sensitization (guinea pig) | Negative (closed patch test) | No sensitization |
| Flash point (closed cup) | Approx. 220–230°C | Not easily ignitable |
| Environmental Indicator | Test Result | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Aquatic toxicity (fish\/daphnia\/algae) | L(E)C₅₀ all >100 mg\/L | Low toxicity to aquatic organisms |
| Biodegradability (OECD 301B) | Degradation rate ≤20% over 28 days | Not readily biodegradable |
Given the low toxicity and excellent biocompatibility of PPG-400, it can be safely used in pharmaceuticals (suppository bases, ointment bases), cosmetics (humectants, lubricants), and personal care products. In industrial applications such as polyurethane synthesis and lubricant blending, although no special protective grade is required, it is still recommended to operate in a well-ventilated area and wear basic protective equipment.