2,5-Hexanediol

2,5-Hexanediol is an organic compound with the formula CH3CH(OH)CH2CH2CH(OH)CH3. It is both a glycol and a secondary alcohol. It is a colorless water-soluble viscous liquid. The chemical properties are well understood and have been extensively reported and studied. It has the IUPAC name of hexane-2,5-diol and the CAS Registry Number CAS 2935-44-6.

Other names

 * (2R,5R)-2,5-hexanediol
 * 2,5-Dihydroxyhexane
 * Diisopropanol
 * Hexan-2,5-diol
 * [R-(R*,R*)]-2,5-hexanediol
 * hexane-2,5-diol

Manufacture
One common method of manufacture of the compound is from yeast. Another method involves the reduction of acetonylacetone. The material has two chiral carbons and thus has a number of enantiomers. Processes have been researched and developed to produce enantiopure products and by a continuous process. Some synthesis has been carried out from keto hexanoates.

Uses
One of the uses of the material is to synthesize polyesters. and also fine chemicals.

Toxicity
The toxicity of the material has been studied and is reasonably well understood. It can affect the eyes and has some neurotoxic effects.