1,3-Propanediol (PDO) is a versatile, renewable diol that has gained significant industrial importance, particularly due to its bio-based production. 1,3-propanediol's industrial significance lies at the intersection of high-performance materials (especially PTT fibers) and green chemistry, enabling durable goods and consumer products with a reduced environmental footprint.
·Polymers & Textiles (The Largest Application)
The raw material of Polytrimethylene Terephthalate (PTT): PDO is condensed with terephthalic acid to produce PTT. (PTT be widely used for carpet fibre, Apparel & Activewear and Engineering Plastics.)
·Composites & Resins
Can be used as a monomer to modify Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPRs) improving flexibility, toughness, and hydrolytic stability in applications like marine gel coats, tanks, and automotive parts.
To make Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs) : PDO-based polyols can create TPUs with enhanced properties for shoe soles, automotive interior parts, and flexible hoses.
Used to formulate high-performance polyurethanes with improved UV stability, chemical resistance, and low-temperature flexibility for Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, and Elastomers (CASE).
·Liquid Detergents & Cleaning Formulations
Functions as a solvent, viscosity modifier, and stain-release agent. It helps suspend dirt, prevents redeposition on fabrics, and improves the stability of enzymatic cleaners.
·De-icing/Anti-icing Fluids
A key ingredient in many Type IV "anti-icing" fluids for Aircraft De-icing Fluids . It provides excellent freeze-point depression and forms a protective, viscous film that prevents ice formation on aircraft surfaces for an extended "holdover time" before takeoff. It is less toxic and more environmentally friendly than some traditional glycols like ethylene glycol.
·Clear application potential in the field of building bricks
As an efficient internal curing agent and shrinkage reducer, and a sustainable anti-freezing agent
PDO is a highly effective organic water-retaining agent. When mixed into the mortar for brick production, it can lock in moisture for a long time and release it slowly during the later stage of cement hydration. This significantly reduces drying shrinkage and cracking, promotes more complete and uniform cement hydration, enhances the later strength and density of the bricks, and improves the brick's resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.
-As an organic binder or modifier
PDO can be used as a polyol to participate in the synthesis or modification of polymers (such as polyurethanes, polyester resins), which can be used as the adhesive for the fibers or aggregates within the brick, enhancing the overall integrity. The protective coating on the surface of the bricks provides functions such as water repellency, anti-weathering and anti-staining.
-As a stabilizer for foamed or lightweight bricks
Its surfactant properties help to stabilize the bubble structure during the foaming process, making the internal pores of the brick more uniform and smaller. As a result, lightweight bricks with better insulation performance and higher strength are obtained.
Post time: Dec-03-2025