1,6-Hexanediol

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Synonyms: 1,6-Dihydroxyhexane

Abbreviation: HDO, HD

Molecular formula: C6H14O2

Molecular weight: 118.2

CAS number: 629-11-8

Structural formula: HOCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂OH.

Physicochemical properties

1,6-Hexanediol is a white solid at rest, readily soluble in water, methanol, n-butanol, and butyl acetate, and slightly soluble in diethyl ether. It is a transparent liquid at 50°C.

1,6-Hexanediol has low toxicity. The oral LD₅₀ in rats is 3730 mg/kg, and the dermal LD₅₀ in rabbits is >2500 mg/kg.

Properties and Uses

1,6-Hexanediol is a linear diol containing two primary hydroxyl terminal groups. It can be used to manufacture unsaturated polyesters, polyurethanes, saturated polyurethane resins, polycarbonates, coatings, plasticizers, reactive diluents for UV-curable coatings, and organic synthesis intermediates.

In the polyurethane industry, it is mainly used to manufacture polyester diols, which are then used to synthesize polyurethane elastomers. Polyurethane elastomers made from polyhexanediol adipate and diisocyanates such as MDI exhibit excellent hydrolysis resistance, crystallinity, and high mechanical strength. 1,6-Hexanediol is also used as a chain extender in polyurethanes.