2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-Pentanediol Monoisobutyrate

About This Product

2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate, CAS number 25265-77-4, is a clear, low-odour, slow-evaporating liquid, best known under the trade name Texanol. It is the single most widely used coalescing agent in water-based architectural coatings. A latex paint dries in two stages: water evaporates, and the polymer particles left behind must then deform and fuse into a continuous film. Below the polymer's minimum film-forming temperature they are too rigid to do so, and the coating cracks or chalks. A coalescent temporarily plasticises those particles so they knit together, then evaporates out, leaving a harder film than it entered. This molecule is effective because it is asymmetric: the ester end has strong affinity for the acrylic polymer and partitions into the particle, while the free hydroxyl end keeps enough water compatibility for the coalescent to distribute evenly through the wet paint rather than pooling. Its very low volatility means it stays through the entire fusion period, and its low odour suits interior application. Its VOC classification is the principal formulation constraint in tightly regulated markets. It is used as a coalescent in architectural and industrial latex paints, in adhesives, inks, floor polishes and in water-based wood coatings. Bio Green Chem supplies TMPD monoisobutyrate to specification on assay, hydroxyl value, acid value, water, colour and distillation range.