Pentaerythritol

Pentaerythritol is the organic compound with the formula C(CH2OH)4. This white, crystalline polyol is a versatile building block for the preparation of many polyfunctionalized compounds such as the explosive PETN and pentaerythritol triacrylate. Derivatives of pentaerythritol are components of alkyd resins, varnishes, PVC stabilizers, tall oil esters, and olefin antioxidants.

Preparation
It can be prepared by condensation of acetaldehyde and formaldehyde in a basic environment. The process occurs by successive aldol reactions followed a Cannizzaro reaction. Impurities include dipentaerythritol and tripentaerythritol.


 * CH3CHO + 4 CH2O + 1/2 Ca(OH)2 → C(CH2OH)4 + 1/2 (HCOO)2Ca