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Trimethylolpropane

CAS No.
77-99-6
Synonyms
TMP (alcohol)1,3-Propanediol, 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-Ethyltrimethylolmethane 1,1,1-Trimethylolpropane Tri(hydroxymethyl)propane Propylidynetrimethanol 2,2-Bis(hydroxymethyl)-1-butanol 1,1,1-Tri(hydroxymethyl)propane Methanol, (propanetriyl)tris-Tris(hydroxymethyl)propane
Certificates
ISO 14001,ISO 45001,ISO 9001,REACH

Trimethylolpropane (TMP), represented by the formula CH₃CH₂C(CH₂OH)₃, is a fundamental molecule in the realm of polymer chemistry. Classified as a triol, TMP possesses three hydroxyl (OH) functional groups, enabling it to readily participate in various condensation reactions.

Properties Application Structural Identifiers Packing FAQ

Properties

Physical State	White flake crystal
Solubility	Soluble in water and alcohols
Insolubility	N/A
Odor	Faint odor
Crosslinking	Crosslinking is a crucial process in polyester formation. It involves creating additional covalent bonds between individual polyester chains.

Application

Polyesters: (crosslinking agent)

In polyester resins, TMP acts as a crosslinking agent. Its hydroxyl groups readily react with carboxylic acid groups in polyester chains, forming a more robust and heat-resistant network. These polyesters have extensive applications in:

Coatings (paints, varnishes) for improved durability and adhesion.

Adhesives for enhanced strength and performance.

Fibers (e.g., polyester clothing) for superior wear resistance.

Polyurethanes: (chain extender)

TMP functions as a chain extender in polyurethane resins. It lengthens the polymer chains, leading to:

Increased elasticity for flexibility and shock absorption in applications like foams and elastomers.

Improved abrasion resistance for coatings and industrial parts.

Epoxy Resins: (curing agent)

Here, TMP acts as a curing agent. Its presence promotes hardening and strengthens the overall structure of the cured epoxy resin, making it valuable in:Adhesives for high bond strength.

Composites for enhanced mechanical properties.

Electrical applications due to good insulating properties.

Structural Identifiers

Linear Formula	C6H14O3
CAS No.	77-99-6
MDL Number	MFCD00004694
EINECS No.	204-528-4
Beilstein/Reaxys No.	4-01-00-02786
Pubchem CID	6510
IUPAC Name	2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol
SMILES	CCC(CO)(CO)CO
InChI Identifier	InChI=1S/C6H14O3/c1-2-6(3-7,4-8)5-9/h7-9H,2-5H2,1H3
InChI Key	ZJCCRDAZUWHFQH-UHFFFAOYSA-N
ChEBI	183310
Synonyms:	TMP (alcohol) 1,3-Propanediol, 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-Ethyltrimethylolmethane 1,1,1-Trimethylolpropane Tri(hydroxymethyl)propane Propylidynetrimethanol 2,2-Bis(hydroxymethyl)-1-butanol 1,1,1-Tri(hydroxymethyl)propane Methanol, (propanetriyl)tris-Tris(hydroxymethyl)propane
Grades	Industrial grade
Groups	Polyester
MARKETS	Polyester

FAQ

How to use TMP in polyesters (crosslink agent)?

Polyester Resin Type: Different polyester formulations have varying needs for TMP. Here's a general guideline:

Unsaturated polyesters:These typically require 0.5% to 2% TMP by weight.

Saturated polyesters:These often use a higher range of 1% to 3% TMP by weight.

The amount of TMP is adjusted to achieve the target level of crosslinking, which influences the final properties:

Increased Strength and Chemical Resistance: A higher crosslinking density (achieved with more TMP) generally leads to improved strength and resistance to chemicals.

Flexibility and Processing: Excessive crosslinking can negatively impact flexibility.

How to use TMP in polyesters(chain extender)?

TMP acts as a chain extender in polyurethanes (PU), affecting polymer chain length and thus the final material's properties. The amount of TMP used in PU depends on:

Desired PU properties: More TMP for elasticity/flexibility (foams, elastomers) and less for strength/hardness (coatings).

Polyol type: More TMP needed with diols (shorter chains) to compensate compared to triols (longer chains).

The typical usage range for TMP in PU falls between 0.5% and 5% by weight.