2-Methyl-1,3-Propanediol (MPO)
CAS Number: 2163-42-0
Empirical Formula: C4H10O2
2-Methyl-1,3-Propanediol (MPO) is a versatile liquid, non-crystallizing, short-chain diol possessing two primary hydroxyl groups. It exhibits a high boiling point of 212°C and a very low melting of -54°C; this contributes to an ease in handling. MPO has the same molecular weight & equivalent weight as 1,4-Butanediol, a linear diol that is commonly used in polyurethane and polyester applications. But due to its branched methyl group, MPO forms softer products with a low tendency to crystallize. MPO does not undergo the side reactions fo 1,4-Butanediol that produce Tetrahydrofuran (THF). Unlike 1,4-Butanediol, MPO is not a regulated product.
MPO has the structural formula below:
The branched methyl moiety imparts good hydrolyticstability in polyesters and polyurethanes, while maintaining good weatherability and product durability. MPO is soluble in water, common solvents and reactive monomers like adipic acid. MPO exhibits high reaction rates with carboxylic acids, esters, and isocyanates to produce polyesters, polyester polyols, unstaturated polyester resins, alkyd resins and polyurethanes.
MPOis a valuable building block for diacrylates, plasticizers, other ester products and ether diols via alkoxylation.
