Trimethylolpropane (TMP) is a trifunctional polyhydric alcohol widely used as a key building block in the production of high-performance coatings, alkyd resins, saturated polyesters, polyurethane foams, lubricants, acrylic monomers, and plasticizers. Its three primary hydroxyl groups provide excellent crosslinking ability, resulting in enhanced hardness, flexibility, chemical resistance, and weatherability of the final products.

 

Technical Specifications

ITEMS SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance White flake crystal
Trimethylolpropane ≥99.0%
Moisture ≤0.05%
Acid value ≤0.002%
Chrominance ≤15APHA

 

Packaging and Storage

  • PE bag with a net content of 25kg, plastic lined woven bag with a net content of 500/1000kg.
  • Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers. Shelf life: 24 months when properly stored.

 

Benefits of Using Trimethylolpropane (TMP)

  • Superior hydrolysis and alkali resistance compared to glycerol-based products
  • Low color and low odor
  • Excellent thermal and oxidative stability
  • Reduces VOC emissions in coatings
  • Improves gloss retention and yellowing resistance

 

Main Applications of Trimethylolpropane (TMP)

Alkyd Resins & Coatings:
Improves hardness, gloss, chemical resistance, and weatherability of air-drying and baking enamels.

Polyurethane Foams & Elastomers:
Acts as a crosslinker in rigid foams, flexible foams, and PU coatings.

Acrylic Esters & Radiation-Curable Coatings:
Forms TMP triacrylate (TMPTA) for UV-curable inks, adhesives, and wood coatings.

Synthetic Lubricants & Plasticizers:
Used in aviation lubricants, hydraulic fluids, and PVC plasticizers.

Powder Coatings:
Enhances flow, leveling, and mechanical properties.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between TMP and Trimethylolpropane Triacrylate (TMPTA)?
TMP is the raw triol. TMPTA is the esterified derivative (trimethylolpropane triacrylate) produced by reacting TMP with acrylic acid. TMPTA is used in UV-curable coatings and inks, whereas TMP is used upstream in resin synthesis.

What is the difference between TMP and Pentaerythritol?
TMP is trifunctional and contains an ethyl side chain, providing better flexibility and lower viscosity in resins. Pentaerythritol is tetrafunctional and typically yields harder, more brittle films.

Is TMP biodegradable?
TMP itself exhibits moderate biodegradability. Its esters (e.g., TMP trioleate) used in lubricants are often readily biodegradable and meet OECD 301 standards.

Is TMP soluble in water?
Yes, TMP is highly soluble in water (>1000 g/L at 20 °C) and most polar solvents (alcohols, glycols, ketones).

Can TMP be used in food-contact applications?
Yes, high-purity TMP meets FDA 21 CFR regulations for indirect food additives (resins in food-contact coatings) and is widely accepted in food-packaging materials.

Can TMP be used in polyurethane rigid foams?
Absolutely. TMP is a preferred crosslinker for high-performance rigid polyurethane foams due to its trifunctionality and thermal stability.

 

Where can I buy high-quality Trimethylolpropane (TMP)?

You can contact us via email [email protected] or WhatsApp +86-18452425579 for offers or bulk orders.