Allyl alcohol polyether (AAP), a polymer compound, is a block/random copolymer produced via the reaction of allyl alcohol with ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO). The chemical properties, downstream applications, and major producers of AAP are introduced from several aspects below.

I. Synthesis of AAP

The synthesis of AAP is mainly achieved through polymerization reactions, including free radical polymerization, anionic polymerization, and cationic polymerization. During the reaction, allyl alcohol molecules form polymer chains by chemical bond connections, resulting in the generation of AAP.

By adjusting reaction conditions and raw material proportions, AAP with molecular weights ranging from hundreds to thousands, as well as different molecular structures and functions, can be synthesized. Low-molecular-weight (200-600) polyethers are mainly used in agricultural organosilicon auxiliaries and stabilizers for high resilience foams, while medium-molecular-weight (600-1000) polyethers are mainly used in stabilizers, defoamers and water reducers for rigid foams. Additionally, medium- and high-molecular-weight polyethers (1000-2000) are mainly used in leveling agents, textile auxiliaries, anti-stick agents and water reducers for leathers, while high-molecular-weight polyethers (2000-5000) are mainly used in stabilizers and water reducers for flexible foams, and so on.

II. Chemical Properties of AAP

AAP has a high molecular weight and good water solubility, making it potentially valuable in many fields. Moreover, it has excellent stability, heat resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance, allowing it to maintain stable performance under various environmental conditions.

III. Applications of AAP

Surfactants: AAP, as a non-ionic surfactant, has wide applications in detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, and other fields. Its outstanding performance gives products significant advantages in excellent washing effects, low energy consumption, and less environmental pollution.

Coatings and Adhesives: As one of the main components of coatings and adhesives, AAP can improve adhesion, water resistance, and weather resistance of products. Furthermore, it can enhance the leveling and workability of coatings, making the application process smoother.

Oil: In the petroleum industry, AAP is mainly used as oilfield chemicals, such as drilling fluid treatment agents and oil recovery aids. Its excellent stability and corrosion resistance enable it to maintain outstanding performance in harsh environments.

Biomedical: The biocompatibility and low toxicity of AAP make it potentially valuable in the biomedical field. For example, it can be used as a drug carrier for targeted delivery and sustained release, as well as a biomaterial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

IV. Major AAP Producers

Zhejiang Huangma Technology Co., Ltd.: It occupies the largest market share in the AAP business in China. Huangma Technology is a leading company in the field of special surfactants with large production scale, wide product variety, and high technological content, having high visibility and influence in the AAP industry.

Jiangsu Zhongshan Chemical Co., Ltd.: With strong production and research capabilities in the AAP business, Zhongshan Chemical can provide customers with high-quality, high-purity AAP products and professional technical support. Additionally, the company focuses on eco-friendly production and service quality, aiming to establish long-term and stable cooperation relationships with customers. The company’s output of AAP was around 40,000 tonnes in 2023.

V. Outlook

With continuous technological advancement, increasing demand for high-performance materials, and growing environmental awareness, AAP, as a low-toxicity, eco-friendly polymer compound, is expected to be more in line with the trend of sustainable development in the future. The future outlook of AAP industry are optimistic, with broad potential applications.