Dipentaerythritol
[CAS# 126-58-9]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Fatty alcohol
• Name: Dipentaerythritol
• Synonyms: 2,2,6,6,-Tetra(hydroxymethyl)-4-oxaheptane-1,7-diol; 2,2,2',2'-Tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)-3,3'-oxydipropan-1-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₂₂O₇
• Molecular Weight: 254.28
• CAS Registry Number: 126-58-9
• EC Number: 204-794-1
• SMILES: C(C(CO)(CO)COCC(CO)(CO)CO)O

Properties

• Melting point: 215-225 °C
• Boiling point: 356 °C
• Water solubility: 0.29 g/100 mL (20 °C)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovery and Applications

Dipentaerythritol is a versatile chemical compound known for its unique structure and wide-ranging applications in industrial and material sciences. As an extended form of pentaerythritol, dipentaerythritol features two additional hydroxymethyl groups, enhancing its reactivity and utility in various chemical processes.

The discovery of dipentaerythritol followed the study of pentaerythritol, which is widely used in the synthesis of polyols and resins. Dipentaerythritol was identified as a valuable compound due to its enhanced functionality, making it suitable for more specialized applications. The synthesis of dipentaerythritol typically involves the reaction of pentaerythritol with formaldehyde or similar reagents under controlled conditions to extend the hydroxymethyl groups.

One of the primary applications of dipentaerythritol is in the production of high-performance resins and coatings. Its ability to form complex cross-linked structures makes it an ideal component in the synthesis of alkyd resins, which are used in various coatings, paints, and varnishes. These resins benefit from the enhanced chemical and physical properties imparted by dipentaerythritol, including improved hardness, durability, and resistance to environmental factors.

In addition to its role in resins, dipentaerythritol is used in the production of plasticizers and stabilizers for plastics. The compound's structure provides excellent compatibility with different polymers, enhancing their flexibility, strength, and thermal stability. This makes dipentaerythritol a valuable ingredient in the manufacturing of high-quality plastic materials used in automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

Dipentaerythritol also finds applications in the field of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its reactivity allows it to be used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients and specialty chemicals. The compound's ability to form complex molecules with high precision makes it useful in designing and producing compounds with specific biological activities or chemical properties.

Despite its advantageous properties, the handling of dipentaerythritol requires proper safety measures due to its reactive nature. Adequate precautions are necessary during its synthesis and application to ensure safe use in industrial processes.

Overall, dipentaerythritol represents a significant advancement in the field of chemical synthesis and material science. Its ability to enhance the properties of resins, plastics, and pharmaceuticals underscores its importance in various industrial applications.

References

1950. Esterification of Dipentaerythritol for Industrial Applications. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 72(10).
DOI: 10.1021/ja01166a029

2024. Designing multifunctional cotton fabrics based on dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate-branched poly(ethyleneimine). Chemical Engineering Journal, 485.
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2024.149876

2024. Multifunctional Acrylates from Dipentaerythritol for Photopolymerization. Polymer Chemistry, 15(22).
DOI: 10.1039/D4PY00145B