Propionic anhydride is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Flash point 165°F. Density 8.4 lb /gal. Corrosive to metals and tissue.

It is commonly used as an esterifying agent, a dehydrating agent for nitration or sulfonation, and for the determination of methoxy groups in organic analysis.It is also used in the preparation of polybasic acids, alkyd resins, dyes and pharmaceuticals, and to prevent low-temperature freezing of perchloric acid and acetate salts in non-aqueous titration.