[NHCOLL-L:3128] Request information on use of propylene glycol as shipping medium for terrestrial arthropods

[Jeff.Stephenson at dmns.org]

Hello Everyone,
We are looking at replacing the ethanol in our arachnid vials with
propylene glycol for shipment on loans.  This would be for shipment only
and we would request the borrower replace the propylene glycol with
ethanol when specimens arrived.  As far as we can tell, propylene glycol
is not listed in the dangerous goods covered by CFR 49 or IATA.
Does anyone have experience doing this?  Any conservation concerns come
to mind?  All references that I've found seem to indicate that propylene
glycol is OK for specimens and even OK (if not ideal) for DNA.  Any
negative experiences?  Any red flags?
Thank you very much.

Jeff Stephenson
303.370.8319
Collections Manager, Zoology Dept.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Preserve * Present * Excite * Inspire

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