Skip to content
SupplyList
Menu

Pentylene glycol

Pentylene glycol suppliers and sourcing guide

Pentylene glycol is 1,2-pentanediol, a five-carbon diol that is a clear, nearly odorless liquid soluble in water and oils. It is made synthetically from petrochemical feedstock or from plant-derived materials such as furfural from sugarcane bagasse or corn cobs. Cosmetic brands buy it as a solvent and humectant, and formulators often use it alongside other 1,2-alkanediols in preservative systems.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
1,2-Pentanediol · Pentane-1,2-diol · CAS 5343-92-0
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of pentylene glycol

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Petrochemical grade

    1,2-Pentanediol made by synthetic routes from petroleum feedstock; the most common and lowest-cost grade.

  • Plant-derived

    Pentylene glycol made from plant biomass such as bagasse or corn cobs, sold with a bio-based or natural-origin claim.

  • Alkanediol blends

    Pre-blends with caprylyl glycol, hexanediol or similar diols, sold as ready-made multifunctional ingredients.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Identity
IR spectrum or GC retention time against a reference standard.
Assay
1,2-Pentanediol content by GC, typically 99% or higher.
Water
Karl Fischer titration.
Color and odor
APHA color and odor against a retained standard.
Heavy metals
Lead, arsenic and other elements by ICP-MS or ICP-OES against the supplier's specification or the applicable USP, FCC or cosmetic-grade limit.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store pentylene glycol sealed at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and strong oxidizers. Close containers after use because it absorbs water. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with a retest of assay and water to extend it.

Lots and expiry dates

Record assay, water and origin (petrochemical or plant-derived) for each lot. If it forms part of a preservative system, keep lot numbers with the batch records so challenge-test results can be traced to the material used.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Pentylene glycol suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking pentylene glycol suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

Sell pentylene glycol? Request a listing

Frequently asked questions

What forms of pentylene glycol can brands buy?

Common forms include petrochemical grade, plant-derived and alkanediol blends. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for pentylene glycol include?

Expect identity, assay, water, color and odor and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should pentylene glycol be stored?

Store pentylene glycol sealed at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and strong oxidizers. Close containers after use because it absorbs water. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with a retest of assay and water to extend it.

What is the regulatory status of pentylene glycol?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists pentylene glycol (1,2-pentanediol, CAS 5343-92-0) as a non-medicinal ingredient for topical use only, up to 5%, citing CIR.

More cosmetic bases, emollients and surfactants

All 76 cosmetic bases, emollients and surfactants

Sell ingredients to brands?

Request a free listing for the ingredients you make or distribute. No paid placement.

Request a listing