pentaeritritol

Pentaerythritol is a polyhydroxylated alcohol with the chemical formula C5H12O4. It consists of a central quaternary carbon bonded to four CH2OH groups, giving a tetrafunctional molecule. At room temperature it appears as a crystalline white solid and is soluble in water and many polar organic solvents.

Industrial production of pentaerythritol typically involves the condensation of formaldehyde with acetaldehyde to form sugar-like intermediates such as pentaerythrose, which are subsequently hydrogenated to the tetrol. The process is carried out under controlled acidic or basic conditions and the product is purified by crystallization and drying. The high functionality of the molecule makes it useful as a crosslinking and building block in resin chemistry.

Primary uses of pentaerythritol are in the synthesis of alkyd resins, polyesters, and coatings, where its four hydroxyl groups enable extensive crosslinking and hardening of the polymer network. It serves as a key building block for the manufacture of energetic materials such as nitro derivatives, including PETN, which are used as high-energy explosives. It is also employed as a plasticizer and as a crosslinking agent in various resin systems, contributing to improved hardness and chemical resistance.

Safety and handling considerations include the potential for skin and eye irritation with exposure. Pentaerythritol itself is of relatively low acute toxicity, but nitrated derivatives are highly energetic and require strict hazardous-material controls. Standard industrial hygiene practices, proper storage, and avoidance of inhalation or ingestion are advised.