High-Purity Solvents

Pentaerythritol

Pentaerythritol (CAS: 115-77-5) is a versatile polyhydric alcohol, specifically a tetrahydric alcohol, featuring four primary hydroxyl groups symmetrically arranged around a central quaternary carbon atom. This neopentyl structure provides the molecule with exceptional thermal stability and low volatility. Industrially, it is synthesized via the base-catalyzed aldol condensation of acetaldehyde with an excess of formaldehyde, followed by a Cannizzaro reaction. The resulting white, crystalline solid is a cornerstone building block in the polymer and chemical industries.

Pentaerythritol is primarily utilized as a polyol for the synthesis of alkyd resins, high-performance synthetic lubricants, and radiation-curable monomers. Its ability to undergo fourfold esterification allows for the creation of highly branched structures with high cross-linking density. As global industries shift toward sustainable and high-durability materials, pentaerythritol remains essential for formulating low-VOC (volatile organic compound) coatings and advanced flame retardants, making it an indispensable intermediate in modern industrial chemistry.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High Functionality: The presence of four primary hydroxyl groups allows for high cross-linking density and the synthesis of complex, branched polymers.
Thermal Stability: Its neopentyl backbone lacks beta-hydrogens, imparting superior resistance to heat and oxidative degradation compared to other polyols.
Low Volatility: A high melting point and low vapor pressure make it ideal for high-temperature industrial processing and long-term material stability.
Enhanced Durability: Derivatives exhibit excellent water resistance, chemical resistance, and surface hardness in coating applications.
Environmental Compliance: Enables the development of high-solids and waterborne resin systems, assisting manufacturers in meeting stringent VOC regulations.
Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of organic acids for custom esterification tailored to specific industrial needs.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Profile: Chemical formula C₅H₁₂O₄ with a molecular weight of 136.15 g/mol.
Purity Grades: Available in “Monopentaerythritol” (98%+ purity), “Technical Grade” (containing 10–12% dipentaerythritol), and “Nitration Grade.”
Physical Properties: High melting point (approx. 260°C) and density of 1.396 g/cm³ at 20°C.
Solubility: Soluble in water (approx. 62 g/L at 20°C) and glycerol; slightly soluble in ethanol; insoluble in benzene and ether.
Hydroxyl Value: High theoretical hydroxyl content of approximately 49.9%, facilitating efficient esterification reactions.
Safety Profile: Generally classified as non-hazardous for transport; exhibits low acute toxicity and is biodegradable.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Alkyd Resins: The largest consumer segment; used to manufacture architectural paints, automotive finishes, and industrial coatings for improved gloss and hardness.
Synthetic Lubricants: Esterified with fatty acids to produce high-performance polyol esters used in jet engines, refrigeration compressors, and automotive lubricants.
Explosives: Serves as the precursor for Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN), a powerful high explosive used in detonators and booster charges.
Flame Retardants: A key carbon source in intumescent coatings that expand when heated to protect steel and wood from fire.
Plasticizers: Used to produce specialty esters for PVC, providing better heat stability and lower migration than standard phthalates.
Radiation Curing: Used in the synthesis of pentaerythritol tetraacrylate for UV-curable inks and coatings.

Key Sectors