Description
Di(trimethylol propane), Di-TMP, 2,2-[oxybis(methylene)]-bis(2-ethyl)-1,3-propanediol is a colorless and crystalline substance (mp 112 – 114 ℃), only slightly soluble in water at ambient temperature (2.6 g/100 g at 25 ℃).It is a byproduct of 2-ethyl-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol (TMP) production and can be isolated from the residue of the TMP distillation step. Newer investigations show that ditrimethylolpropane can be prepared in high yield and selectivity by the reaction of TMP, formaldehyde, and 2-ethylacrolein.
Uses
Di(trimethylolpropane) can be used for the synthesis of lipase catalyzed hyperbranched polymers. It can also be used in the formation of biodegradable polymers for drug delivery applications.
Application
Di-trimethylolpropane is mainly used for production of acrylic monomers and oligomers for radiation-curable coatings and inks, including lithography, ink jet, and flexography inks. Di-TMP tetraacrylate has a very high reactivity, low skin irritation, and gives coatings with good scratch and chemical resistance, hence it also find uses in hard coats for electronics. Di-TMP is used as costabilizer in some lead-free PVC stabilizers based on calcium – zinc. Minor uses are in coating resins and synthetic lubricants.
Synthesis Reference(s)
Canadian Journal of Chemistry, 53, p. 1103, 1975
DOI: 10.1139/v75-154
General Description
Di(trimethylolpropane) is a monomeric unit with primary hydroxyl groups, that can be used as a tetrafunctional core molecule.
Flammability and Explosibility
Not classified
