2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol, also known as methylene glycerol, draws interest in chemical manufacturing and research thanks to its unique structure and reactivity. The compound looks straightforward on paper—C4H8O2—but in practice, those two hydroxyl groups on a backbone with a terminal methylene make a noticeable difference. The molecular structure connects two alcohol functions with one methylene group—so it's not just a basic diol. What stands out is the methylene group; it gives the molecule a reactivity that other simple diols can't match. This reactive spot promises crosslinking and polymerization potential, which means formulators find ways to use it in synthetic resins, coatings, and adhesives where conventional monomers can’t keep up. The HS Code for 2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol lands under chemicals and organic compounds, typically at 2905399090, which makes international trade and compliance relatively clear.
The compound sits as a colorless solid at room temperature, though in some conditions, you will spot it in powder or crystalline form. Its melting point hovers around 44–48°C, turning into a clear, viscous liquid as the temperature creeps up. The specific gravity sits close to 1.11–1.13 g/cm³, so it’s heavier than water but not unwieldy in most industrial systems. In a solution, it dissolves reasonably in water thanks to its two alcohol groups, but the methylene bridge isn’t just sitting there passively—if the surrounding conditions get right, you see that group jump into new reactions, particularly under basic or catalytic influence. Chemical storage always factors in the relatively low stability of the methylene bond; exposures to heat or strong bases do trigger polymerization or decomposition, so careful control in a lab or factory line matters.
Commercial suppliers ship the substance as flakes, small crystals, or as powder. The shape isn’t random; it comes from the way the compound crystallizes out after synthesis and purification. Handling a solid like this—especially in bulk bins or drums—calls for dust management and good ventilation, since powder can become airborne, irritate the nose, or settle and oxidize over time. For some processes, suppliers offer a concentrated aqueous solution, which helps keep the compound manageable at large scales or in continuous production. In my time working in specialty chemicals, I learned that choosing powder versus flake depends on dosing needs and how quickly the material needs to dissolve at the production site—the more surface area, the faster the wetting and reaction kicks off. When receiving by the pallet, it’s best stored in a cool, dry environment, well away from acids, bases, and oxidizers to avoid unwanted side reactions.
2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol joins the lineup of reactive monomers and crosslinkers in coatings, adhesives, and advanced plastics. The methylene group’s presence turns the molecule into more than a simple spacer; it reacts with other small molecules to build long chains or intricate networks in polymers. That’s how you wind up with specialty resins that need good mechanical toughness or water resistance—traits you see in flexible flooring, glossy topcoats, or sealants where lifetime and durability justify investing in costlier raw materials. In research settings, chemists explore it for biomedical materials, hydrogels, and even 3D printing resins, since its reactivity fits with photoinitiated crosslinking under the right light. In manufacturing, the choice to use this compound isn’t random; it springs from the need for chemical flexibility and a reliable reaction profile, especially in custom applications where standard glycols can’t provide enough performance.
Chemical safety ranks as top priority. 2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol doesn’t bring the severe reputation that some acrylate monomers or epoxies carry, but it still counts as hazardous—mainly for eyes, skin, and respiratory tract upon direct contact or inhalation. In solid or powdered form, every good operator knows to keep the dust levels down with extraction, filters, and tight handling. Liquid spills or concentrated slurries call for gloves, splash goggles, and prompt cleanup. Short-term exposure brings irritation; direct splashes need rinsing with running water for several minutes, and any inhalation risk means proper masks or respirators stay handy. Longer term, any chemical carrying a methylene group gets flagged for possible sensitization or environmental persistence, so each factory review weighs the risks before scaling up a new resin or coating. Emergency hazmat sheets list the need for sealed packaging, dry storage, and labeling under chemical safety protocols, making it easier for workers to recognize and respect the hazards.
Looking closer at its structure—CH2=C(CH2OH)2—the molecule spells out a three-carbon chain, with each end capped by hydroxyl groups and a terminal methylene double bond off the central carbon. This layout means the molecule brings both hydrophilic and olefinic traits to any mixture. Its formula, C4H8O2, harmonizes with a molecular weight right around 88.11 g/mol, so it fits easily into stoichiometric calculations or product formulations. Density runs from 1.11 to 1.13 g/cm³ as a solid; that bumps up slightly in solution, especially at higher concentrations. As a raw material, these properties streamline both inventory planning and safety reviews—both for documentation and for hands-on handling in daily factory life.
Sourcing reliable 2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol comes down to purity, batch traceability, and trustworthy supply chain logistics. Reputable suppliers test each lot for melting point, residual solvents, and byproduct contamination. On the production line, buying from a partner with clear specs means less downtime from failed batches, fewer headaches with subpar solids dissolving, and less paperwork chasing down replacement drums. In the real world, the material integrates into larger formulations—never used in isolation, it’s always paired with catalysts, initiators, or stabilizers to tailor the final polymer properties. Every formulator remembers at least once when a batch failed due to impurities sneaking past; solid documentation and regular supply checks keep those risks at bay. The right material supports new coatings or adhesives that outperform the competition, whether in scratch resistance, gloss retention, or stability under heat and moisture.
Chemical regulations group 2-Methylene-1,3-propanediol into the slightly hazardous class, typically with GHS labeling for skin and respiratory irritation. Safe handling starts with sealed containers, good ventilation, and real-world PPE standards—nitrile gloves, goggles, dust masks if airborne. Any worksite using this chemical needs up-to-date SDS files, spill kits on hand, and clear markings in both storage and work areas. Disposal calls for solid waste protocols, not just pouring down the drain—neutralization or high-temp incineration stops the compound from affecting water streams or local soil. Facility managers train staff for the occasional spill or exposure, making sure emergency showers and eyewash stations stay checked. Environmental protection lines up with best industrial practices—nothing gets left to chance, and both local and export regulators expect tracking for both raw material and finished product.
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