Glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated
[CAS# 9082-00-2]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> Heterocyclic compound intermediate >> Pyrimidine compound >> Alcohol
• Name: Glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated
• Synonyms: Glycerol polyethylene-propylene glycol ether
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O₃.3(C₂H₄O)_n.3(C₃H₆O)_x
• Molecular Weight: ~5300
• CAS Registry Number: 9082-00-2
• EC Number: 618-655-1
• SMILES: OCCO.CC(O)CO.OCC(O)CO

Properties

• Density: 1.013 g/mL (25 °C) (Expl.)

Safety Data

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

Glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated refers to a class of polyether polyols derived from the sequential or random addition of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO) to glycerol, a trifunctional alcohol. These compounds are characterized by a glycerol core modified with varying lengths and ratios of ethoxy and propoxy chains, resulting in polyether molecules with multiple hydroxyl end groups.

The synthesis of glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated polyols involves the catalytic ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide onto glycerol under controlled conditions. The reaction typically employs basic catalysts such as potassium hydroxide or double metal cyanide catalysts to regulate the addition of EO and PO units. The sequence, ratio, and total number of ethoxy and propoxy units can be tailored to produce products with specific molecular weights, hydrophilicity, and physical properties.

These polyether polyols exhibit amphiphilic characteristics due to the combination of hydrophilic ethoxy segments and more hydrophobic propoxy segments. The balance between EO and PO content influences solubility, viscosity, flexibility, and thermal behavior. The trifunctional glycerol core provides multiple reactive hydroxyl groups that enable cross-linking and further chemical modification.

Glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated polyols find extensive applications in the manufacture of polyurethanes, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. Their multifunctionality and adjustable properties allow formulation of polymers with tailored mechanical strength, flexibility, and hydrophobicity. These materials are widely used in flexible foams, rigid foams, elastomeric products, and surface coatings.

In addition, they serve as intermediates in the production of surfactants, emulsifiers, and lubricants due to their amphiphilic nature and surface-active properties. The ability to modify the EO/PO ratio permits fine-tuning of hydrophilic-lipophilic balance, optimizing performance in detergents and personal care products.

Physically, glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated polyols are generally viscous liquids or waxy solids depending on molecular weight and EO/PO composition. They are soluble in water and common organic solvents, with solubility and viscosity varying according to the ratio of ethoxy to propoxy groups.

Chemically, these polyols are stable under normal conditions but can undergo oxidative degradation or hydrolysis under extreme pH. Proper storage away from heat, moisture, and strong oxidants is recommended.

Synthesis from glycerol, a renewable and bio-based feedstock, supports sustainability goals and green chemistry initiatives. The use of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, derived from petrochemical sources, is also evolving towards greener alternatives.

In summary, glycerol ethoxylated propoxylated polyols are multifunctional polyether compounds derived from the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide onto glycerol. Their tunable properties and chemical versatility make them essential intermediates and ingredients in polyurethane production, coatings, surfactants, and specialty chemical formulations.

References

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