1,2-Pentanediol is a well-known organic compound with the molecular formula C5H12O2. This diol belongs to the family of aliphatic glycols, featuring two hydroxyl groups attached to a five-carbon straight chain. Chemists often call it pentane-1,2-diol, reflecting the positions of the hydroxyls. Its structure gives it distinct physical and chemical attributes, which guide its use in manufacturing, cosmetic applications, and chemical synthesis. CAS Number 5343-92-0 links it in international trade, and its HS Code is 2905399090, identifying its status among alcohol-based raw materials.
1,2-Pentanediol mainly appears as a colorless to faintly yellow liquid at room temperature. The liquid carries a mild, almost neutral smell and resists easy solidification. Melting point sits near 16°C, while boiling occurs at roughly 210°C under standard atmospheric pressure, allowing stable processing in most environments. Its measured density hovers around 0.96 g/cm3. Practitioners may spot it as a viscous fluid, but under controlled cooling short-term flake or crystalline solid forms may develop. Variants like flakes, pearls, solid, or even fine powder are less common but serve specialized industrial requirements, such as improved dosing or blending in large-scale cosmetic material handling systems. The diol dissolves well in water, alcohols, and certain hydrocarbons, allowing flexibility in formulation and transport. These solutions permit high concentration for practical batch manufacturing.
The molecular structure features two hydroxyls on adjacent carbons, which influences reactivity and solubility in finished materials or solutions. This positioning grants unique hydrogen bonding behaviors that chemists utilize in multi-component reactions. 1,2-Pentanediol stands out for thermal and oxidative stability. It resists breakdown under routine processing temperatures and doesn’t easily react with atmospheric agents, reducing the risk of hazardous by-products. Manufacturing processes benefit from its low volatility, decreasing potential loss to evaporation. Released into ambient air or water, the diol shows moderate persistence, but active regulatory oversight recommends careful disposal according to local chemical waste guidelines.
Industries choose 1,2-Pentanediol primarily for its performance as a specialty solvent, raw material, and functional additive. In cosmetics and personal care, finished products like creams, serums, and cleansers use this diol for its ability to attract and retain moisture, balancing hydration. Its mildness and compatibility with other common ingredients support safer product profiles, reducing reliance on more aggressive preservatives. Chemical synthesis relies on its dual hydroxyls for esterification, ether formation, or as a base stock in polymer chemistry. Paint and coating manufacturers value its solubilizing power and non-volatility, avoiding rapid evaporation and providing longer workable timeframes. Serving as a raw material, it enables innovation in green chemistry by supporting less hazardous synthesis pathways. Textile finishing and agrochemicals also pull from these benefits, seeking efficient solutions for fabric treatment or controlled-release formulations.
Standard specifications for bulk shipments call for purity levels typically above 98%, minimal color (APHA scale less than 20), and low water content to avoid interference with sensitive reactions. Quality control labs measure both apparent and actual density, record melting and boiling points, and verify the absence of prohibited impurities. Drum, tote, or bulk container shipment keeps the diol in secure, airtight vessels lined to prevent corrosion or leakage. On the shop floor or in the lab, direct contact with 1,2-Pentanediol rarely results in acute toxicity, but safe practice calls for gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation. Eye or skin exposure may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Spills remain manageable with inert absorbent materials; subsequent cleanup with water and mild detergent safeguards against chemical hazard. Flammability ranks moderate, demanding care in storage near open flames or high-heat environments. Disposal and spill control protocols recommend avoidance of stormwater drains to lower risks of environmental harm.
Concerns about the environmental and health impact of synthetic chemicals push stakeholders to prioritize transparency and safety around materials like 1,2-Pentanediol. Industry reports and regulatory agencies periodically update guidelines for worker safety, labeling, and permissible use levels in consumer goods. Researchers continue exploring bio-based synthesis routes, reducing reliance on petroleum feedstocks and lowering the lifecycle impact of raw material sourcing. Downstream users in fast-growing segments like skincare, pharmaceuticals, and specialty coatings request detailed documentation about source, purity, and residual risk. Proper stewardship of the material reduces the likelihood of workplace injury, environmental release, or consumer harm. Investment in sustainable practices such as responsible sourcing, efficient waste capture, and worker education pays off, not just in reputational strength but in long-term cost management. Modern tracking by HS Code eases compliance during international shipping, drives proper customs reporting, and ensures manufacturers meet border safety protocols.
