Polyolit

Polyolit, also known as polyol, is a chemical term for compounds that contain multiple hydroxyl groups (-OH). In organic chemistry, polyols are alcohols with two or more hydroxyl groups, including diols, triols, and higher-order polyols. They are commonly classified into sugar alcohols (polyols derived from carbohydrates) and polyols used as building blocks for polyurethane materials, often referred to as polyether and polyester polyols. Typical examples include glycerol (a triol); ethylene glycol and propylene glycol (diols); and sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol.

Industrial polyols arise from several routes. Polyester polyols are formed by the condensation of diols with dicarboxylic acids or anhydrides, often followed by chain extension. Polyether polyols are produced by polymerizing alkylene oxides (such as ethylene oxide and propylene oxide) from multifunctional initiators. Sugar-derived polyols result from the hydrogenation of aldoses and ketoses, for example glucose to sorbitol. These routes yield materials with different molecular weights, functionalities, and properties suited to specific applications.

Applications are broad. The largest use is as reactive components in polyurethane plastics and foams, where polyols react with di- or polyisocyanates to form urethane linkages. Other uses include coatings, sealants, and adhesives; cosmetics and personal care products (emollients and humectants); and in the food and pharmaceutical industries as low-calorie sweeteners or stabilizers. Safety varies by compound: many polyols such as glycerol and common sugar alcohols are relatively safe, while diols like ethylene glycol are toxic if ingested.