Pentaerythritol, Tetramethylol Methane Penta, THME, PE, 115-77-5

PENTAERYTHRITOL (PE)

1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Short Identity Section

Detailed Identification

Description:
Pentaerythritol (PE) is a polyfunctional polyol containing four hydroxyl groups and is a white crystalline organic compound. Due to its ability to readily esterify with organic acids, it is widely used in the production of alkyd resins, synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, surfactants, and various specialty chemicals. Its micronized form provides high performance, especially in flame retardant systems, intumescent coatings, and PVC stabilizer applications.

2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Note: Values are typical and may vary by source and production batch.

3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE

Note: Pentaerythritol is soluble in water and polar organic solvents but insoluble in non-polar organic solvents.

4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS

Incompatibilities

• Strong oxidizing agents

• Strong acids (may cause esterification)

• Acid chlorides and anhydrides (esterification)

Chemical Reactions

• Esterification: Reacts with organic and inorganic acids to form esters (e.g., alkyd resins, plasticizers).

• Intumescent Char Formation: In intumescent systems, reacts with phosphoric acid derivatives during fire to form a protective carbon foam (char).

5. SPECIFICATIONS

Packaging Options

6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

6.1 Primary Application Areas

6.2 Function in Intumescent Systems

Pentaerythritol acts as a carbon source in typical intumescent flame retardant systems. It is generally used together with:

• Ammonium Polyphosphate (APP)

• Melamine

• Melamine Phosphate

• Melamine Pyrophosphate

• Phosphorus-based flame retardants

During a fire, it reacts with phosphoric acid derivatives to form a protective carbon foam, insulating the substrate against high temperatures.

6.3 Key Advantages

• Compatible with halogen-free systems.

• Provides high char formation efficiency.

• Exhibits good thermal resistance.

• Low ash content.

• Fine particle size allows for easy dispersion.

• High compatibility in resin and coating systems.

• Contributes to the development of environmentally friendly flame retardant solutions.

6.4 Recommended Usage

The optimum usage ratio varies depending on the application and targeted performance. In intumescent coatings, it is used in combination with APP and melamine to achieve effective swelling and char barrier formation. Exact dosages should be determined through laboratory and pilot production tests.

7. BIOLOGICAL AND STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES

Note: This product is an industrial chemical intermediate. It is not intended for biological, pharmaceutical (except as an intermediate), or food applications.

8. BIOCHEMICAL APPLICATIONS

Note: Not applicable for this industrial chemical intermediate.

9. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY

9.1 Acute Toxicity

9.2 Chronic Toxicity

9.3 GHS Classification

Note: Classification is based on ECHA's harmonized classification. Several manufacturer SDSs classify the substance as "Not a hazardous substance or mixture". Always refer to the supplier's SDS for the authoritative classification.

9.4 Precautionary Statements

9.5 Safety Precautions and PPE

Hazards:

• May cause eye irritation

• Dust may cause respiratory irritation

PPE (recommended):

• Safety goggles

• Dust mask

• Protective gloves

• Suitable work clothing

9.6 Environmental Fate

10. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Note: Pentaerythritol is not classified as dangerous goods for transport.

11. REGULATORY INFORMATION

Note: Pentaerythritol is registered under REACH with EC number 204-104-9.

12. STORAGE AND HANDLING

13. FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

14. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

15. FIRST AID MEASURES

16. RAW MATERIALS AND DOWNSTREAM PRODUCTS

16.1 Raw Materials (Upstream)

16.2 Downstream Products

17. SECTORAL SUITABILITY AND USAGE LEVELS

18. CARBON DIOXIDE ABSORPTION AND REAGENTS

Not applicable. Pentaerythritol is an industrial chemical intermediate and is not used for CO₂ absorption or as a chemical reagent.

19. DERIVATIVES AND RELATED COMPOUNDS

Note: Pentaerythritol is a key carbon source in intumescent systems, often used with APP and melamine.

20. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS

SUMMARY

Pentaerythritol (PE) is a polyfunctional polyol containing four hydroxyl groups and is a white crystalline organic compound. Due to its ability to readily esterify with organic acids, it is widely used in the production of alkyd resins, synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, surfactants, and various specialty chemicals. Its micronized form provides high performance, especially in flame retardant systems, intumescent coatings, and PVC stabilizer applications.

The chemical name is 2,2-Bis(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol, with CAS number 115-77-5 and EC number 204-104-9. It appears as a white crystalline powder with a melting point of 253–262 °C.

Key Properties

Main Application Areas

Key Safety Points

• EYE IRRITATION: Causes serious eye irritation (H319) according to ECHA classification.

• LOW ACUTE TOXICITY: Oral LD₅₀ (rat) > 19,000 mg/kg.

• DUST HAZARD: Dust/air mixtures may be explosive.

• PPE REQUIRED: Use safety goggles, dust mask, protective gloves, and suitable work clothing.

• STORAGE: Store in a dry and well-ventilated area, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed.

• DISPOSAL: Dispose of according to local regulations.

Critical Warnings

• Pentaerythritol is classified by ECHA as causing serious eye irritation, although some manufacturer SDSs classify it as non-hazardous.

• Dust/air mixtures may be explosive.

• This TDS contains completed toxicological, transport, firefighting, and first aid data, but always refer to the supplier's official SDS/MSDS.

• Do not use this TDS as a substitute for the official SDS/MSDS.

• Users are responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements.

Disclaimer:
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on the original source document, verified CAS/EC numbers, and data completed from reliable sources (ECHA, ICSC, CDC, manufacturer SDSs). However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are responsible for testing the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with Pentaerythritol (PE).