Resorcinol dihydroxyethyl ether

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Other names: Resorcinol bis(hydroxyethyl) ether, 1,3-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzene, resorcinol di(2-hydroxyethyl) ether.

Abbreviation: HER

Molecular formula: C₁₀H₁₄O₄

Molecular weight: 198.2

CAS number: 102-40-9

EINECS number: 203-028-3

Structural formula:

Physicochemical properties:

Pure resorcinol dihydroxyethyl ether (HER HP) is a white to off-white crystal or powder, generally with a purity of 99%, a melting point of 87–89℃, and a hydroxyl value of approximately 560 mg KOH/g. Industrial grade HER is an off-white solid with a melting point of 80–90℃ and a hydroxyl value of 545–565 mg KOH/g.

Properties and Uses:

HER is an aromatic ring diol that can be used as a chain extender for MDI-based rigid polyurethane elastomers with a Shore hardness of 90A-60D. Compared to HQEE, polyurethane elastomers containing this chain extender have improved tensile properties, lower shrinkage, lower compression set, and better mold release properties. HER melts at lower temperatures and crystallizes more slowly than HQEE, thus having a longer working life. Using HER as a chain extender, the in-reactor life of polyurethane elastomer casting systems at 100–120°C is 3–6 times longer than that of butanediol chain extenders.

It can also be used in the production of polyester plastics to increase the barrier properties of polyester beverage bottles.