What is CHDM and what makes its chemical structure unique?
CHDM (1,4-Cyclohexane Dimethanol) is a cycloaliphatic diol consisting of two hydroxymethylene (-CH₂OH) groups positioned symmetrically (1,4-) on a cyclohexane ring. It exists as a mix of isomers:
Appearance @ 25°C: White waxy solid
Moisture Content: < 0.1%
Color (APHA): < 10
Trans Isomer Content: 70 ± 3%, see below.
Cis-
Trans-
- Trans/Cis Ratio: ~70:30
- Melting Point: 41–61°C (106–142°F), due to isomeric composition
This structure gives CHDM a rigid yet symmetrical backbone, differentiating it from flexible linear or branched diols like BDO, PDO, or NPG.
What are the performance advantages of CHDM in formulations?
- CHDM imparts a wide range of durable and high-performance characteristics in polymers:
Exceptional hydrolytic stability
- Low water absorption
- High tensile strength & modulus
- Improved thermal & chemical resistance
- Excellent UV & weatherability performance
- Crystallinity control for better clarity & processability
- Enhanced low-temp flexibility
- Long-term property retention in harsh environments
- Exceptional hydrolytic stability
What types of applications are ideal for CHDM?
CHDM is used across several polymer families:
Polyester Resins:
- Coil & can coatings
- Metal & protective coatings
- Adhesives
- Unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs)
Polyurethanes:
- Chain extender in PUDs, TPUs, and cast elastomers
- Durable polyester polyols
Epoxy Resins:
- Diglycidyl ether-type diluents
UV-Curable Systems:
- Acrylic/methacrylate oligomers and urethane acrylates
What are the key specifications of SKYCHDM?
Appearance @ 25°C: White waxy solid
Moisture Content: < 0.1%
Color (APHA): < 10
Trans Isomer Content: 70 ± 3%
What advantages does CHDM offer over traditional aliphatic diols?
- Superior mechanical and thermal properties
- Even-numbered carbon backbone enhances strength and crystallinity
- Improved resistance to degradation from water, chemicals, and UV
Why source SKYCHDM through Gantrade Corporation?
SKYCHDM, made by SK Chemicals and distributed by Gantrade, offers:
- Secure global supply with recent capacity expansions
- Over 25 years of technical development
- Competitive pricing and forward integration
- Gantrade’s formulation expertise and complementary products
What product forms of CHDM are available for purchase?
CHDM is offered in two commercial grades:
- CD-100: Solid, 100% CHDM (white waxy solid)
- CD-90: Liquid, 90% CHDM + 10% water (room-temp liquid)
Packaging options:
- 200 kg drums
- 20 MT heated ISO tanks
As a purchaser, what should I consider when buying CHDM?
- Handling form: solid (CD-100) or liquid (CD-90)
- SKYCHDM’s high purity
- Packaging: drum vs. bulk
- Supply security
- Cost-performance value
