Neopentyl Glycol

Brief Overview
Neopentyl glycol (IUPAC name: 2,2-dimethylpropane-1,3-diol) is an organic chemical
compound. It has a wide range of applications and is used in the synthesis
of polyesters, paints, lubricants, and plasticizers. When used in the manufacture of
polyesters, it enhances the stability of the product towards heat, light, and water.
By esterification reaction with fatty or carboxylic acids, synthetic lubricating esters with
reduced potential for oxidation or hydrolysis, compared to natural esters, can be produced.
It appears as a white solid and is soluble in water.

Manufacturing Process
Neopentyl glycol is synthesized industrially by the aldol
reaction of formaldehyde and isobutyraldehyde. This creates the intermediate
hydroxypivaldehyde, which can be converted to neopentyl glycol with either excess
formaldehyde or catalytic hydrogenation of the aldehyde group to an alcohol group.

Manufacture of plastics
Adhesive
General adhesive and binding agent for a variety of uses.