Xylitol

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Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₂O₅

Molecular Weight: 152.15

CAS No.: 87-99-0

Structural Formula:

Physicochemical Properties:

A white crystalline solid or crystalline powder with a melting point range of 92–96°C. It is readily soluble in water and possesses a cool, sweet taste; the pH of a 10% aqueous solution is between 5.0 and 7.0. Its dissolution is accompanied by a distinct endothermic effect (absorption of heat). It is slightly soluble in ethanol and exhibits good thermal stability.

Typically, the xylitol content is ≥ 98.5%, moisture content is ≤ 0.5%, other polyols (including sorbitol, mannitol, arabitol, and galactitol) are ≤ 2.0% (or ≤ 1.0%), reducing sugars (glucose) are ≤ 0.2%, and heavy metal content is < 10 mg/kg.

Characteristics and Applications:

Xylitol is primarily utilized in the pharmaceutical industry, where it serves directly as an oral medication or as a sweetener suitable for consumption by diabetic patients. Its secondary application lies in the food industry, specifically in the production of anti-cariogenic sweeteners, such as those found in chewing gum. It is also employed in cosmetics, as a humectant, and in other applications.

Containing five hydroxyl groups, xylitol also serves as a raw material for the synthesis of various substances, including synthetic resins; it can be utilized as an initiator in the synthesis of rigid polyether polyols. However, due to issues regarding raw material sourcing and cost, xylitol is currently rarely used for the synthesis of polyethers.