Trimethylolpropane
Description
Trimethylolpropane (CAS 77-99-6), commonly abbreviated as TMP, is a trifunctional aliphatic alcohol used as a building block in polymer synthesis and resin manufacturing.
Its three hydroxyl groups enable controlled cross-linking and branching, making it a core raw material for producing durable, high-performance polymer networks across coatings and adhesives.
In coatings, TMP reacts with isocyanates or melamine resins to produce polyurethane and alkyd systems with improved hardness, flexibility, and chemical resistance for industrial use.
Adhesive and sealant formulators use it to build polyurethane prepolymers where controlled cross-link density directly affects bond strength and elasticity in various applications.
In plastics, TMP serves as a branching agent in polyester and polycarbonate production, influencing molecular weight distribution and end-product mechanical performance for manufacturers.
Personal care formulators incorporate it as a humectant and stabilizer in emollient systems and film-forming preparations to ensure product stability and performance in consumer goods.
TMP is supplied as white crystalline flakes or powder, with molten liquid form available for bulk industrial supply. Standard commercial grades include technical and industrial purity levels.
These grades are typically at 99%+ purity. Specialty grades meeting stricter quality specifications are available for cosmetic and high-performance polymer applications in the global market.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 58 °C |
| Boiling Point | 160 °C @ Press: 5 Torr |
| Density | 1.176 |
| Flash Point | 172 °C |
| Appearance | Colorless, hygroscopic crystals. Soluble in water and alcohol. Combustible. |
| Color | White |
| Form | Flakes |
| Water Solubility | soluble |
| Vapor Pressure | <1 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.4850 (estimate) |
| pH | 6.5 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)(External MSDS) |
| Log P | -0.975 (est) |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29054100 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
2-ethyl-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol|TMP|1,1,1-TRIS(HYDROXYMETHYL)PROPANE|Ethriol|Etriol|Ettriol|TMP (alcohol)|1,3-Propanediol, 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-
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