We unleash your business potential by maximize the business innovation.
Send EmailTrimethylolpropane, TMP, 77-99-6
Product Name: Trimethylolpropane (TMP)
CAS No: 77-99-6
EC No (EINECS): 201-074-9
Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₄O₃
Molecular Weight: 134.18 g/mol
REACH Status: Registered
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | 2-Ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol |
| Other Names | Trimethylolpropane, TMP, 1,1,1-Tris(hydroxymethyl)propane, TMP |
| CAS Number | 77-99-6 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 201-074-9 |
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₁₄O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 134.18 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Trifunctional aliphatic alcohol, polyol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Odor | Mild characteristic or odorless |
| Taste | Not determined as technical product |
| REACH Status | Registered |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION:
Trimethylolpropane (TMP) is a trifunctional aliphatic alcohol containing three primary hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Its structure has a central carbon atom bonded to one ethyl (-CH₂CH₃) group and three hydroxymethyl (-CH₂OH) groups. This structure gives TMP high functionality and crosslinking capability.
Structural Formula (Open Structure):
CH₂OH
|
CH₃-CH₂-C-CH₂OH
|
CH₂OH
(2-Ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol)
These structural features:
Give TMP three reactive hydroxyl groups.
Provide high crosslink density in polymer systems.
Show high reactivity in esterification, transesterification, and urethane reactions.
Give the resulting resins and coatings mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability.
TMP is an important polyol intermediate used as a building block in many industrial applications such as alkyd resins, polyester resins, polyurethane foams, coatings, adhesives, and synthetic lubricants.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₁₄O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 134.18 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Odor | Mild characteristic or odorless |
| Density | 1.08 g/cm³ (20 °C) |
| Melting Point | 58–61 °C |
| Boiling Point | 295 °C (760 mmHg) |
| Flash Point | 180 °C (closed cup) |
| Autoignition Temperature | Approx. 370–400 °C (typical) |
| Vapor Pressure | Very low (negligible at 20 °C) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols |
| Stability | Stable under recommended storage conditions |
| Hydroxyl Value | Approx. 1250–1260 mg KOH/g |
| pH (aqueous solution) | Near neutral |
| Volatility | Low |
| Hygroscopicity | May absorb slight moisture; store in dry conditions |
TMP is a white crystalline trifunctional polyol. Its melting point is in the range of 58–61 °C. It boils at 295 °C. Its density is about 1.08 g/cm³. Its flash point is 180 °C (closed cup). It is soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols. It has high chemical stability. Thanks to its three hydroxyl groups, it is effective in crosslinking reactions.
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | High solubility | 20 °C |
| Methanol | Soluble | - |
| Ethanol | Soluble | - |
| Isopropanol | Soluble | - |
| Acetone | Soluble | - |
| Ethyl acetate | Soluble / limited | - |
| Glycols | Soluble | - |
| Aliphatic hydrocarbons | Insoluble or very slightly soluble | - |
| Aromatic hydrocarbons | Limited solubility | - |
Due to its polar structure, TMP is readily soluble in polar solvents such as water, alcohols, glycols, and ketones. Its solubility in aliphatic hydrocarbons is low. This property makes it useful in aqueous and polar solvent-based formulations.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Trifunctional aliphatic polyol |
| Reactivity | Esterification, transesterification, polyesterification, urethane formation |
| Hydrolytic Stability | High |
| Thermal Stability | Good |
| Oxidation Resistance | High |
| Polymerization | Does not undergo hazardous spontaneous polymerization; forms polyesters and polyurethanes in controlled reactions |
| Compatibility | Carboxylic acids, anhydrides, isocyanates, esters |
| Substances to Avoid | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong bases |
| Hazardous Decomposition Products | Carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), aldehydes, and organic vapors |
Thanks to its three primary hydroxyl groups, TMP undergoes esterification with carboxylic acids, reaction with anhydrides, and urethane formation with isocyanates. It is a key building block in polyester resins, alkyd resins, and polyurethane systems. Its trifunctional structure increases crosslink density in polymer networks, providing mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Purity (GC) | ≥ 99.0% |
| Appearance | White crystalline flakes or powder |
| Color (Pt-Co) | ≤ 10 Hazen |
| Melting Point | 58–61 °C |
| Hydroxyl Value | 1250–1260 mg KOH/g |
| Acid Value | ≤ 0.1 mg KOH/g |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.1% |
| Ash | ≤ 0.05% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 1 ppm |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
| pH (aqueous solution) | 6–8 |
| Hygroscopicity | May absorb slight moisture |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage) |
TMP is produced in technical grade with high purity. In industrial applications, batch-to-batch consistency, color stability, and low impurity content are important. High purity is particularly preferred in coating, resin, and polyurethane applications.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Alkyd Resins | Increases gloss, hardness, and durability in paints and coatings |
| Polyester Resins | Provides durability, hydrolytic stability, and weather resistance |
| Powder Coatings | Provides high crosslink density and outdoor durability |
| Industrial Coatings | Used in automotive, appliance, and architectural coatings |
TMP is an important polyol component in the production of alkyd and polyester resins. Thanks to its trifunctional structure, the hardness, chemical resistance, and thermal resistance of coatings are increased.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Flexible and Rigid Foams | Used as a crosslinker in polyurethane foams |
| Elastomers | Provides strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance |
| Adhesives | Increases adhesion performance and structural strength |
TMP is used as a crosslinker or chain extender in polyurethane systems. It gives polyurethanes hardness, flexibility, and chemical resistance.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Powder Coatings | Provides high crosslink density |
| Automotive Coatings | Increases scratch and chemical resistance |
| Industrial Coatings | Provides durability and surface quality |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Synthetic Esters | Used in high-performance lubricants |
| Hydraulic Fluids | Provides wear resistance and viscosity stability |
| Ester-Based Lubricants | Used in biodegradable lubricant formulations |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Adhesives | Provides strong bonding properties |
| Sealants | Increases chemical resistance and adhesion performance |
| Composites | Improves performance in resin systems |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| UV-Curable Systems | Derivatives such as TMP triacrylate are used |
| Plasticizers | Ester derivatives are used as plasticizers |
| Ester Intermediates | Used in the production of lubricant and coating esters |
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Structural Class | Trifunctional aliphatic polyol |
| Functional Groups | Three -OH (hydroxyl) groups |
| Central Structure | Contains an ethyl group and three hydroxymethyl groups |
| Steric Effect | Increases hydrolytic and thermal stability |
| Crystalline Structure | High crystallinity, low volatility |
| Reactivity | High tendency toward esterification and urethane reactions |
| Polymer Contribution | Provides hardness, crosslinking, chemical resistance, and UV resistance |
The trifunctional structure of TMP provides high crosslink density in polymer chains. As a result, the resulting resins and coatings are more resistant to hydrolysis, oxidation, and UV effects.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Esterification | Reacts with carboxylic acids to form esters |
| Polyesterification | Forms polyester resins with dicarboxylic acids |
| Urethane Formation | Used in polyurethane systems with isocyanates |
| Transesterification | Used as an intermediate in ester exchange reactions |
| Alkyd Resin Synthesis | Used in the production of alkyd resins with fatty acids and anhydrides |
| Powder Coating Production | Used in high-performance powder coating resins |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Not classified as a hazardous substance |
| Oral LD50 (Rat) | > 5000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | May be mildly irritating |
| Eye Irritation | May be mildly irritating |
| Respiratory Irritation | Dust inhalation may cause irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | Not expected |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Bioaccumulation | Not likely |
| WGK Germany | 1 (slightly hazardous to water) |
TMP is a chemical with low toxicity. It may cause mild irritation on contact with eyes and skin. Inhalation of dust should be avoided. It is not classified as a hazardous substance.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not a hazardous substance) |
| Hazard Class | Not a hazardous substance |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Proper Shipping Name | Trimethylolpropane (TMP) |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| ADR/RID Label | Not applicable |
TMP is not classified as a hazardous substance. There are no special restrictions for its transport by sea, land, or air.
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU | REACH registered |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| EINECS | 201-074-9 |
| Turkey (KKDİK) | Should be evaluated within compliance and registration requirements |
| Food Contact | Not suitable for technical grade; special grade required for food contact |
| Hazardous Substance | No |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Temperature | 2–30 °C (ideal); should not exceed 40 °C |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed bag or container |
| Moisture Control | Dry environment to prevent moisture absorption |
| Substances to Avoid | Strong oxidizing agents, direct sunlight, high temperature |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage) |
| Handling Notes | Avoid dust formation; use PPE |
| Packaging Options | 25 kg bag, 500 kg jumbo bag; custom packaging upon request |
Handling Notes:
Avoid dust formation.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, mask).
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Combustible solid; dust cloud may be flammable/explosive |
| Flash Point | 180 °C (closed cup) |
| Extinguishing Media | Water spray, foam, CO₂, dry chemical powder |
| Special Hazards | Thermal decomposition may release CO, CO₂, and organic vapors |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
TMP may burn at high temperatures. Dust cloud formation should be prevented. In case of fire, appropriate extinguishing media should be used, and firefighting personnel should wear protective equipment.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Dust mask, protective goggles, gloves, protective clothing |
| Ventilation | Ventilate the area |
| Containment | Prevent dust spread |
| Cleaning Methods | Carefully sweep or vacuum; place in suitable disposal container |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water sources |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of according to local regulations |
In case of a spill, clean up while preventing dust formation. Dispose of waste properly. Prevent environmental release.
| Exposure Route | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move the person to fresh air. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of water and soap. Remove contaminated clothing. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention. |
| Raw Material | Description |
|---|---|
| n-Butyraldehyde | Precursor in TMP synthesis |
| Formaldehyde | Used in aldol condensation reaction |
| Hydrogen | Used in hydrogenation step |
| By-Product | Application |
|---|---|
| TMP Esters | Lubricants, plasticizers |
| Alkyd Resins | Paints and varnishes |
| Polyester Resins | Coatings, powder paints |
| Polyurethanes | Adhesives, elastomers, foams |
| TMP Triacrylate | UV-curable coatings |
| Industry | Application Area | Example Use | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coatings | Alkyd, polyester, powder coating | Automotive, architectural, industrial paints | High |
| Polyurethanes | Foam, elastomer, adhesive | Flexible/rigid foams, adhesives | High |
| Lubricants | Synthetic esters | Hydraulic fluids, lubricants | High |
| Construction | Adhesive, sealant | Composites, adhesives | Suitable |
| Chemistry | Ester intermediate | Plasticizer, synthesis | Suitable |
| UV-Curable Systems | TMP triacrylate | Coatings, inks | High |
TMP can undergo many chemical reactions due to its three primary hydroxyl groups:
| Reaction | Description |
|---|---|
| Esterification | Forms esters with carboxylic acids |
| Polyesterification | Forms polyester resins with dicarboxylic acids |
| Transesterification | Reacts with esters to perform ester exchange |
| Urethane Formation | Forms polyurethanes with isocyanates |
| Etherification | Can form ether bonds under suitable conditions |
| Acrylation | Forms TMP triacrylate derivatives with acrylic acid |
TMP derivatives are widely used in coatings, adhesives, lubricants, and polymer systems.
| Compound | Description |
|---|---|
| TMP Triacrylate | Used in UV-curable coatings |
| TMP Trimethacrylate | Used in polymer and coating systems |
| TMP Esters | Used as lubricants and plasticizers |
| TMP Ethoxylate | Used in polyurethane and coating systems |
| TMP Propoxylate | Used in polyurethane and coating systems |
| Pentaerythritol | Similar polyol structure; used in coatings and resins |
| Neopentyl Glycol (NPG) | Similar polyol structure; used in coatings and resins |
SUMMARY:
Trimethylolpropane (TMP) is a white crystalline trifunctional polyol with the formula C₆H₁₄O₃ and CAS number 77-99-6. It contains three primary hydroxyl groups. Thanks to its high functionality, it is widely used in alkyd resins, polyester resins, polyurethane foams, coatings, adhesives, and synthetic lubricants. It particularly increases crosslink density, providing mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. It has low toxicity and is not classified as a hazardous substance. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers.
Key Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₄O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 134.18 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 77-99-6 |
| Melting Point | 58–61 °C |
| Boiling Point | 295 °C |
| Density | 1.08 g/cm³ (20 °C) |
| Flash Point | 180 °C (closed cup) |
| Solubility | Water, alcohols, glycols |
| Chemical Class | Trifunctional aliphatic polyol |
| Primary Use | Resin, coating, polyurethane, lubricant |
Main Applications:
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Resins | Alkyd, polyester, powder coating |
| Polyurethanes | Foam, elastomer, adhesive |
| Coatings | Automotive, industrial, architectural |
| Lubricants | Synthetic esters, hydraulic fluids |
| Construction | Adhesive, sealant, composite |
| Chemistry | Ester intermediates, plasticizers |
Key Safety Points:
LOW TOXICITY: Not a hazardous substance; LD50 > 5000 mg/kg
MILD IRRITATION: May cause mild irritation to eyes and skin
DUST CONTROL: Inhalation of dust should be avoided
STORAGE: Cool, dry, well-ventilated; should not exceed 40 °C
PPE RECOMMENDED: Gloves, protective goggles, dust mask
INCOMPATIBLE: Strong oxidizing agents
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
TMP is a trifunctional aliphatic polyol containing three primary hydroxyl groups. It shows high reactivity in esterification and polyurethane reactions.
Its trifunctional structure gives polymers high crosslink density, mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability.
It is used as a building block in alkyd, polyester, and powder coating resins.
It is an important intermediate in the production of polyurethane foams, elastomers, adhesives, and synthetic lubricants.
It is soluble in water and polar solvents; its solubility in aliphatic hydrocarbons is low.
It is combustible at high temperatures; dust cloud formation should be prevented.
It is not classified as a hazardous substance; however, appropriate PPE should be used in industrial handling.
It should be stored in tightly closed containers to prevent moisture absorption.
Important Statement: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their own specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, use, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with TMP.