Dodecanediol

Dodecanediol is an organic compound with the chemical formula C12H26O2. It is a diol, meaning it contains two hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Specifically, it is a linear, twelve-carbon chain with hydroxyl groups at the terminal positions, making it a primary diol. Dodecanediol exists as a waxy solid at room temperature.

This compound is typically produced through the reduction of dodecanedioic acid or its esters. It can also be synthesized via the hydroformylation of 1,11-dodecadiene followed by reduction. Dodecanediol is soluble in many organic solvents and has limited solubility in water.

The primary applications of dodecanediol are as a monomer or comonomer in the production of polymers. It is used in the synthesis of polyesters, polyurethanes, and polycarbonates, contributing flexibility and toughness to the resulting materials. These polymers find use in coatings, adhesives, elastomers, and lubricants. Dodecanediol also serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of other specialty chemicals, including plasticizers and surfactants. Its long hydrocarbon chain imparts hydrophobic properties, while the hydroxyl groups allow for further chemical modification.