dodecanediols

Dodecanediols are aliphatic diols in which a dodecane skeleton carries two hydroxyl groups. They are used as specialty monomers and intermediates in polymer chemistry. Because the two hydroxyl groups can occupy many positions along the 12-carbon chain, many isomers exist. The simplest terminal example is 1,12-dodecanediol, with hydroxyl groups at the ends. Other common forms include 1,2-, 1,3-, 1,4-, and various internal isomers such as 2,3- and 2,11-dodecanediol. The exact properties depend on the substitution pattern, but in general these compounds are high-boiling, relatively water-insoluble, and can be solids or viscous liquids at room temperature.

They find use primarily as polyols in the production of polyurethanes and polyesters, where the long hydrophobic chain can impart flexibility and lipophilicity. They are also employed as plasticizers, lubricants, surfactants, and synthetic intermediates in cosmetics and fine chemicals.

Industrial production of dodecanediols typically involves routes such as hydroformylation of long-chain alkenes to give dialdehydes, followed by selective reduction to the diols. Alternative routes use hydrogenation of diacid derivatives or other chain-elongation strategies. Purification is achieved by distillation or crystallization, depending on the isomer and its physical state.

Safety and handling follow standard practices for diols: they may act as irritants and should be handled with appropriate protective equipment.