Alkyl (C12-C14) Glycidyl Ether (AGE), with its CAS number 68609-97-2, is a vital reactive diluent in the world of epoxy resins. Its unique chemical structure, derived from fatty alcohols and epichlorohydrin, grants it properties that are highly sought after by formulators in industries ranging from coatings and adhesives to electronics and composites. Understanding the chemistry behind AGE, its typical specifications, and the manufacturing landscape is crucial for procurement professionals and R&D scientists looking to buy this essential intermediate.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
The nomenclature 'Alkyl (C12-C14)' refers to a mixture of fatty alcohols predominantly comprising lauryl alcohol (C12) and myristyl alcohol (C14). These alcohols are reacted with epichlorohydrin, typically in the presence of a catalyst and subsequent dehydrochlorination, to form the glycidyl ether. The resulting molecule features a long, aliphatic alkyl chain linked via an ether bond to a glycidyl group (an epoxy ring). This structure is key to its performance:

  • Alkyl Chain (C12-C14): This hydrophobic tail contributes to compatibility with non-polar components and imparts flexibility and toughness to the cured epoxy network.
  • Ether Linkage: Provides a stable connection between the alkyl chain and the reactive epoxy group.
  • Glycidyl Group: The epoxy ring is highly reactive and readily opens to participate in curing reactions with epoxy hardeners (amines, anhydrides, etc.), thereby becoming chemically bound to the polymer matrix.

The synthesis process requires careful control to ensure high purity and a consistent distribution of alkyl chain lengths, which directly impacts the final properties of the diluent.

Key Specifications and Their Significance
When purchasing Alkyl (C12-C14) Glycidyl Ether, several key specifications are typically provided by manufacturers. Understanding these helps in selecting the right grade for a specific application:

  • Appearance: Usually described as a colorless to light yellow, oily liquid. Deviations might indicate impurities.
  • Viscosity (mPa·s at 25°C): Typically in the range of 5-20 mPa·s. This low viscosity is its primary function, facilitating handling and application of epoxy resins.
  • Epoxy Equivalent Weight (EEW) (g/eq): This value represents the mass of the resin that contains one mole of epoxide groups. For AGE, it typically ranges from 275-290 g/eq. This is critical for calculating stoichiometric ratios with curing agents.
  • Purity (%): High purity (e.g., 98-99%) is essential for predictable performance and to avoid side reactions or undesirable byproducts.
  • Density (g/mL at 25°C): Around 0.89 g/mL, useful for volumetric calculations.
  • Flash Point (°F or °C): Typically above 230°F (110°C), indicating a relatively low fire hazard.
  • Refractive Index (n20/D): Around 1.447, used for quality control and identification.

Manufacturing Landscape and Global Sourcing
The global production of Alkyl (C12-C14) Glycidyl Ether is significant, with China emerging as a major manufacturing hub. Chinese chemical manufacturers benefit from economies of scale, integrated supply chains for raw materials (fatty alcohols and epichlorohydrin), and competitive labor costs. This allows them to offer Alkyl (C12-C14) Glycidyl Ether at attractive price points for global buyers. When seeking to buy from China, it is advisable to partner with established manufacturers who can provide:

  • Consistent product quality and adherence to specifications.
  • Sufficient production capacity to meet demand.
  • Reliable logistics and export documentation.
  • Competitive pricing, especially for bulk purchases.
  • Technical support and prompt communication.

By understanding the chemical underpinnings and manufacturing advantages, procurement specialists can make informed decisions when sourcing Alkyl (C12-C14) Glycidyl Ether, ensuring the success of their epoxy-based formulations.