Glycerine
(glycerin, glycerol)
What is it and how is it produced or sourced?
Glycerin is a sugar alcohol derived from animal products, plants or petroleum (as a by-product of biofuel). Vegetable glycerin is made by heating triglyceride-rich vegetable fats — such as palm, soy and coconut oils — under pressure, using heat, and/or together with a strong alkali, such as lye, which causes the glycerin to split away from the fatty acids and mix together with water, forming an odorless, sweet-tasting, syrup-like liquid. With necessary precaution you can make glycerine yourself.
What are its possible functions in biofabricating?
e.g. plasticizer, filler, colorant, PH modifier, mordant, solvent, release agent, curing agent, softener, and so on
*example: dried and ground egg shells can be used as filler in bioplastics, to add strength and reduce shrinkage. *
Vegetable glycerin softens and hydrates human skin, increasing smoothness and suppleness. It is often used in skincare and also works as a laxative. It has antimicrobial and antiviral properties. In biofabrication, it may act as:
- plasticizer for more flexible bioplastics
- softener for alternative leather (e.g. fish leather)
- additive for soap bubble mixes
- solvent for pigment extraction (not documented here)
Processing information
Dissolves in: cold and hot water, and alcohol PH value: 5
Selecting the right type
How do you know if you are getting the right type (in nature/at the shop)? Or can you use any? For example, carbonate and bicarbonate soda are significantly different, but you may find it is referred to as "soda"
Look for glycerin(e) or glycerol. Smaller bottles are often more expensive. You might need to contact the supplier about the origins of the product if you want to know before. Choose a plant-based glycerine, it should state on the label what it is made of.
Local abundance
Where are you located?
Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Can this ingredient be found in nature there?
No, it is a processed ingredient. But it can be produced almost anywhere. Try to find a vegetable-based glycerine that is produced regionally or locally.
If not, please describe or list local suppliers and price
In the Netherlands, Orphi is an affordable vegetable-based glycerin brand. This ingredient is best purchased online, in 1 litre bottles.
and costs about 6 Euros per 1000 ml (1L).
If store-bought, find out where the ingredient was produced. How far is the production source from where you are?
In Portugal: less than 2000 km from site of use
##Eco-compatibility
Type and amount of energy used to produce this ingredient, e.g. does it require a lot of water, heat, chemicals?
The production of glycerine requires heat and pressure, and sometimes strong alkali, like lye.
Toxicity
Is this ingredient toxic to humans/animals?
No
Some people have an allergic skin reaction to vegetable glycerine.
Distance from origin to site of use
In which region(s) of the world is this produced? Is it related to specific natural contexts or industries (e.g. near sea or rivers, in hot humid climates).
Depends on the way it is produced, but there are many methods. Needs further research.
Shelf life
Look up shelf life & expiry date, but also use of senses to check: can you see when it’s off, can you smell it?
Shelf life: years if unopened, check smell
Vegan
Is it made without the use of any animal products?
Yes/No, depends on the method of production