Pentaerythritol is a versatile organic compound used in various industries. It is synthesized from formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, offering high stability and functionality in products like paints and explosives.
| IUPAC Name | 2,2-Bis(hydroxymethyl)1,3-propanediol |
| Molecular Formula | C5H12O4 |
| CAS Number | 115-77-5 |
| Synonyms | Pentaerythritol; PETP; Tetramethylolmethane, Monopentaerythritol; 2,2-Bis(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C5H12O4/c6-1-5(2-7,3-8)4-9/h6-9H,1-4H2 |
Pentaerythritol Properties
Pentaerythritol Formula
The chemical formula of monopentaerythritol is C5H12O4. It is a polyhydric alcohol, containing five carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and four hydroxyl groups. The formula represents the precise arrangement of its atoms, contributing to its unique properties and applications.
Pentaerythritol Molar Mass
The molar mass of monopentaerythritol is approximately 136.15 g/mol. This value is determined by summing up the atomic masses of all its constituent elements, including carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The molar mass plays a crucial role in various chemical calculations and stoichiometry.
Pentaerythritol Boiling Point
Monopentaerythritol has a boiling point of about 276 degrees Celsius (529 degrees Fahrenheit). At this temperature, monopentaerythritol undergoes a phase transition from its liquid state to a gas state. The high boiling point is significant in applications where elevated temperatures are involved.
Pentaerythritol Melting Point
The melting point of monopentaerythritol is approximately 260 degrees Celsius (500 degrees Fahrenheit). It is the temperature at which the solid form of monopentaerythritol transforms into a liquid. The melting point influences its handling and processing in various industries.
Pentaerythritol Density g/mL
Monopentaerythritol exhibits a density of about 1.396 g/mL at 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). The density measurement quantifies the mass of monopentaerythritol per unit volume. This property is essential in determining its packaging, storage, and transportation requirements.
Pentaerythritol Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of monopentaerythritol, which is the same as its molar mass, is approximately 136.15 g/mol. This value represents the total mass of a single molecule of monopentaerythritol, combining all its constituent atoms.
Pentaerythritol Structure
Monopentaerythritol has a compact and symmetrical molecular structure. It consists of a central carbon atom bonded to four hydroxyl groups and one methylol group. This unique structure contributes to its stability and ability to form multiple chemical bonds.
Pentaerythritol Solubility
Monopentaerythritol is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves well in various organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. Its solubility characteristics are crucial in applications such as the production of paints, varnishes, and other chemical formulations.
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Specific Gravity | 1.396 g/mL |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 136.15 g/mol |
| Density | 1.396 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 260°C (500°F) |
| Boiling Point | 276°C (529°F) |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Slightly soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone |
| Vapor Pressure | Not available |
| Vapor Density | Not available |
| pKa | Not available |
| pH | Not applicable |
Pentaerythritol Safety and Hazards
Monopentaerythritol poses minimal hazards when handled properly. It is considered non-toxic, and acute exposure is unlikely to cause significant harm. However, like any chemical, some precautions should be taken. Avoid inhalation of dust or vapors, as they may irritate the respiratory system. Skin contact should be minimized, and protective gloves should be worn when handling the substance. In case of eye contact, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists. Pentaerythritol is generally stable but may decompose under extreme conditions. Store it in cool, dry areas away from sources of heat or ignition to prevent potential hazards.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Low toxicity; handle with care |
| UN IDs | Not applicable |
| HS Code | 29054200 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified as hazardous |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Toxicity | Generally considered non-toxic |
Please note that while monopentaerythritol is generally considered safe, it is essential to follow standard safety practices and handle all chemicals with care. Always refer to the specific safety data sheet and manufacturer guidelines for detailed safety information.
Pentaerythritol Synthesis Methods
Two main methods for synthesizing monopentaerythritol are the formaldehyde–acetaldehyde and the acetylene processes.
In the Formaldehyde-Acetaldehyde Process, the base catalyst facilitates the reaction between formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. Initially, formaldehyde undergoes aldol condensation to produce 3-hydroxybutanal. Subsequently, this intermediate reacts with additional formaldehyde, resulting in the formation of monopentaerythritol. Operators control the temperature and pressure conditions throughout the process to optimize the yield.
In the Acetylene Process, the mercuric chloride catalyst enables the reaction between acetylene gas and formaldehyde. The process involves multiple steps, including acetylene hydration to generate acetaldehyde, followed by aldol condensation with formaldehyde. Further chemical transformations lead to the production of monopentaerythritol.
Both processes require precise control of reaction conditions and efficient purification steps to obtain high yields of monopentaerythritol. These synthesis methods have industrial significance, as monopentaerythritol serves as a vital building block for various applications in the manufacturing of resins, paints, explosives, and lubricants.
Pentaerythritol Uses
Monopentaerythritol finds diverse applications across industries due to its unique properties and versatility. Here are its uses:
- Alkyd Resins: Monopentaerythritol plays a crucial role in alkyd resin production, widely employed in paints, coatings, and varnishes.
- Explosives: Manufacturers use it as a vital ingredient in producing explosive materials, such as PETN (monopentaerythritol tetranitrate).
- Synthetic Lubricants: Monopentaerythritol-based esters function as high-performance lubricants in automotive and industrial applications.
- Polyurethane Foams: Industries utilize it as a cross-linking agent for producing rigid polyurethane foams with excellent insulation properties.
- Inks: Monopentaerythritol finds use in the production of printing inks for packaging and publication purposes.
- Plasticizers: It serves as a plasticizer in plastic manufacturing, enhancing flexibility and durability.
- Coating Additive: Manufacturers add monopentaerythritol to coatings and adhesives to improve film-forming properties and adhesion.
- Synthetic Fiber Production: It is instrumental in producing synthetic fibers like polyesters.
- Fuel Additives: Monopentaerythritol esters act as fuel additives, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions.
- Medicine: Medical applications use monopentaerythritol derivatives as contrast agents for imaging.
The vast range of applications demonstrates the significance of monopentaerythritol in various industries, making it a valuable compound for modern technology and daily life.
Questions:
Q: What is pentaerythritol used for?
A: Monopentaerythritol is used in alkyd resins, explosives, synthetic lubricants, polyurethane foams, inks, plasticizers, and more.
Q: What is pentaerythritol tetranitrate?
A: Monopentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) is an explosive compound commonly used in detonators and military applications.
Q: What is pentaerythritol?
A: Monopentaerythritol is a polyhydric alcohol with the chemical formula C5H12O4, widely used in various industries.
Q: What is pentaerythritol tetranitrate melting point?
A: The melting point of monopentaerythritol tetranitrate is approximately 141-142°C.
Q: What is the pentaerythritol synthesis mechanism?
A: Monopentaerythritol can be synthesized through formaldehyde-acetaldehyde or acetylene processes involving controlled reactions and catalysts.
Q: What are the elements that makeup pentaerythritol tetranitrate?
A: Monopentaerythritol tetranitrate is composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen atoms.
Q: What is pentaerythritol tetranitrate?
A: Monopentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) is an explosive organic compound used in various military and commercial applications.
Q: How to synthesize pentaerythritol maleimide?
A: Monopentaerythritol maleimide can be synthesized by reacting pentaerythritol with maleic anhydride under controlled conditions.