Comprehensive Epoxy Modifier Solutions: From Mono-functional Ethers to Multi-functional Architectures

Want your adhesive to be more heat-resistant, stronger, or more environmentally friendly? The key lies in the "modification" of epoxy resins. From a clever mono-functional ether with only a single reactive site to multi-functional structures that crosslink rapidly, a tweak in the formulation can adjust viscosity, reaction speed, and strength. We’ll guide you through the features and applications of various epoxy modifiers, helping you discover the "secret weapon" best suited for your formulation.

 

 

1. Epoxy Functional Reactive Modifiers

 

Applications and Differences of Aliphatic Mono-functional Epoxy Ethyl Ethers

 

Aliphatic mono-functional epoxy ethyl ethers exhibit subtle differences in their application characteristics. Some variants have higher molecular weights and longer carbon chains, which allow them to provide superior solvent compatibility and slower volatilization. These properties make them particularly suitable for coating systems that require extended open time and improved wetting. Other variants, with lower molecular weights and more flexible structures, display lower viscosity and faster reactivity, so they are ideal for electronic grade adhesives and low-viscosity resin systems. Both types offer excellent stability and ease of processing, but selection can be flexibly tailored according to the desired reactivity, viscosity, and compatibility, helping to enhance the stability and performance of the final formulation.

 

Table 1: Mono-functional Aliphatic Epoxy Ethyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA)
Butyl etherified epoxy ethane	2426-08-6	145–155	1–5	≤30
Aliphatic etherified epoxy ethane (C12–14)	68609-97-2	275–300	5–10	≤30
Aliphatic etherified epoxy ethane (C12–14)	68609-97-2	290–320	5–10	≤30
2-Ethylhexyl etherified epoxy ethane	2461-15-6	205–235	1–5	≤30
2-Ethylhexyl etherified epoxy ethane	2461-15-6	220–240	3–7	≤30
Aliphatic etherified epoxy ethane (C8–10)	68609-96-1	220–235	4–8	≤30
Aliphatic etherified epoxy ethane (C12–13)	120547-52-6	275–290	6–9	≤30

 

 

Hardness Enhancement Properties of Multi-functional Aromatic Ethers

 

Both 3-alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (EEW 480, A) and 3-alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (EEW 390, B) belong to multi-functional aromatic epoxy ethyl ethers, with a core structure of 3-alkylphenol. They feature high rigidity, high modulus, and strong crosslinking capability. These materials are particularly suitable for adhesive systems that require high hardness, high glass transition temperature (Tg), and low shrinkage, such as structural adhesives, LED encapsulants, and electronic bonding materials. 3-alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (A) has a higher molecular weight and EEW, resulting in superior hardness and thermal stability after curing. 3-alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (B) offers more flexibility in viscosity and workability, making it easier to blend with other resins. Both can be combined with aliphatic epoxies or isocyanate systems to achieve enhanced hardness and mechanical reinforcement. Their aromatic backbone also provides excellent resistance to yellowing, making them a reliable formulation base for UV-cured adhesives and outdoor applications.

 

Table 2: Mono-functional Aromatic Epoxy Ethyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA/G)
Phenyl epoxy ethyl ether	122-60-1	150–165	4–8	≤50
o-Cresyl epoxy ethyl ether	2210-79-9	170–195	5–10	≤1 (G)
3-Alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (A)	68413-24-1	480–520	40–70	≤11 (G)
p-tert-Butylphenyl epoxy ethyl ether	3101-60-8	210–240	18–28	≤1 (G)
3-Alkylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether (B)	68413-24-1	390–420	20–40	≤11 (G)
o-Phenylphenol-based epoxy ethyl ether	7144-65-2	225–245	≤250	≤50
p-sec-Butylphenyl epoxy ethyl ether	67557-76-0	220–250	20–30	≤5 (G)

 

 

2. Multi-functional Epoxy Ethyl Ethers

 

Applications of Bicyclic Aliphatic Di-functional Ethers in High Heat-Resistant Encapsulation

 

Bicyclic aliphatic di-functional epoxy ethyl ethers feature high rigidity and excellent heat resistance, making them ideal for electronic encapsulation and structural adhesive formulations. Their cyclohexane backbone provides outstanding glass transition temperature (Tg) and dimensional stability, maintaining adhesion and mechanical strength in high-Tg systems. The di-functional design increases crosslink density, enhancing impact resistance and thermal stability. These materials are particularly suitable for chip adhesives, electronic encapsulants, and high-performance structural adhesives, offering low color and good flow properties for precision processing.

 

Table 3: Di-functional Aliphatic Epoxy Ethyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA/G)
1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether	2425-79-8	120–140	10–18	≤50
1,6-Hexanediol diglycidyl ether	16096-31-4 / 933999-84-9	140–155	15–30	≤50
Neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether	17557-23-2	130–145	10–18	≤50
1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol diglycidyl ether	14228-73-0	150–165	60–75	≤50
Dibromo neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether	31452-80-9	250–300	275–500	≤5 (G)
Dipropylene glycol diglycidyl ether	41638-13-5	175–205	20–50	≤100
Polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 200)	26142-30-3	185–215	30–60	≤50
Polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 400)	26142-30-3	300–330	40–75	≤50
Polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 400)	26142-30-3	310–330	55–75	≤60
Diethylene glycol diglycidyl ether	4206-61-5	145–160	20–30	≤50
Polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 200)	39443-66-8	180–195	30–50	≤50
Polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 400)	39443-66-8	258–280	60–80	≤50
Polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (Mn 600)	39443-66-8	350–375	100–130	≤50

 

 

Table 4: Di-epoxy Aromatic Resorcinol Glycidyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C) / Melting Point	Color (Gardner)
m-Resorcinol diglycidyl ether	101-90-6	120–135	≤0.2	300–500	≤2
Thio-diphenyl diglycidyl ether	16558-06-8	170–180	≤0.06	Melting point 42°C	≤5

 

 

Table 5: Multi-epoxy Functional Aliphatic Polyglycidyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA/G)
Trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether	30499-70-8	135–145	≤0.1	100–145	≤50 (APHA)
Glycerol polyglycidyl ether	13236-02-7	135–150	≤1.0	≤200	≤50 (APHA)
Pentaerythritol polyglycidyl ether	30973-88-7	180–220	≤1.5	250–300	≤2 (Gardner)
Castor oil polyglycidyl ether	74398-71-3	550–650	≤2.0	300–500	≤10 (Gardner)
Sorbitol polyglycidyl ether	68412-01-1	175–190	≤1.0	4,000–6,000	≤3 (Gardner)

 

 

Applications of Bicyclic Aliphatic Diglycidyl Esters in Electrical Insulation Materials

 

The following two bicyclic aliphatic diglycidyl esters are highly polar and rigid di-functional epoxy esters, which derived from hexahydrophthalic anhydride and tetrahydrophthalic anhydride structures, respectively. These kind of structures not only exhibit high reactivity but also provide excellent mechanical strength and insulation performance, making them particularly suitable for electronic encapsulants, potting compounds, and electrical barrier layers.

 

With higher viscosity and greater crosslink density, Hexahydrophthalic diglycidyl ester can offer dimensional stability and mechanical support, which is ideal as a main resin for potting compounds. Tetrahydrophthalic diglycidyl ester, being comparatively more flexible, is advantageous for designing structures that require elasticity and bending, such as fabric coatings or flexible PCB laminates. Both can be used with amine or anhydride curing agents to achieve stability and long-term reliability in electrical insulation and high-filler applications.

 

Table 6: Di-functional Diglycidyl Esters

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA)
Hexahydrophthalic diglycidyl ester	5493-45-8	164–177	≤1.5	600–900	≤50
Tetrahydrophthalic diglycidyl ester	21544-03-6	150–175	≤2.0	600–1,200	≤100

 

 

Table 7: Di-functional Diglycidyl Amines

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (Gardner)
N,N-Diglycidylglycidylphenylamine	2095-06-9	106–116	90–160	≤6
N,N-Diglycidylglycidylo-ortho-toluidine	40027-50-7	125–145	30–80	≤6

 

 

Table 8: Mono-functional Diglycidyl Esters

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA)
Neodecanoic acid diglycidyl ester	26761-45-5	235–244	≤0.15	5–20	≤30

 

 

3. Cycloaliphatic Epoxy Resin

 

Table 9: Cycloaliphatic Epoxy Resin

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA)
1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol Diglycidyl Ether	14228-73-0	150–165	≤ 0.2	60–75	≤ 50
1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol Diglycidyl Ether	14228-73-0	140–160	≤ 0.05	55–75	≤ 50
Hexahydrophthalic Diglycidyl Ester	5493-45-8	164–177	≤ 1.5	600–900	≤ 50
Tetrahydrophthalic Diglycidyl Ester	21544-03-6	150–175	≤ 2.0	600–1,200	≤ 100

 

 

4. High-Performance Epoxy Resins

 

These high-purity trifunctional epoxy compounds feature extremely low chlorine content and stable color control, making them ideal for high-reliability encapsulation, semiconductor underfill materials, and structural adhesives for optoelectronic components. The trifunctional structure provides a high crosslink density and excellent thermal stability, significantly enhancing material hardness and dimensional stability. In addition, the products offer medium-to-low viscosity and good processability, suitable for both room-temperature and heat-curing systems, delivering stable formulations for high-cleanliness and low-volatility applications.

 

Table 10: High-Performance Epoxy Resins

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C / 50°C)	Color (Gardner)
N,N-Diglycidylglycidylphenylamine	2095-06-9	106–116	≤0.15	90–160	≤6
p-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether	5026-74-4	105–115	≤0.4	2,000–5,000	≤10
p-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether	5026-74-4	95–107	≤0.1	500–850	≤10
Bisphenol A tetraglycidyl ether	28768-32-3	115–130	≤0.3	8,000–18,000 (50°C)	≤10
Bisphenol A tetraglycidyl ether (low viscosity)	28768-32-3	111–117	≤0.3	3,000–6,000 (50°C)	≤10
m-Xylylenediamine tetraglycidyl ether	63738-22-7	95–110	≤0.3	1,600–3,000	≤5
m-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether	71604-74-5	102–110	≤0.3	7,000–13,000	≤10
m-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether	71604-74-5	94–102	≤0.2	1,500–4,800	≤10
m-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether (high purity)	71604-74-5	92–95	≤0.005	1,800–2,200	≤10

 

 

High-Purity Tri-functional Epoxy Material Designed for Advanced Applications

 

m-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether is a high-purity tri-functional epoxy compound specifically designed for electronic encapsulation and advanced optoelectronic applications. With a chlorine content below 0.005%, it significantly reduces the risk of corrosion on metal electrodes, making it ideal for semiconductor and sensor encapsulants requiring high reliability. Its tri-functional structure provides higher crosslink density and a tighter cured network, resulting in excellent dimensional stability and thermal performance.

 

This compound also features medium-to-low viscosity and stable color, facilitating precision dispensing and molding processes. Typical applications include underfill, optoelectronic encapsulation, and transparent structural adhesives for module encapsulation. Compared to conventional di-functional systems, it exhibits faster reaction rates and higher mechanical strength, making it an essential raw material in high-performance epoxy formulations—particularly for applications demanding low volatility, low ionic contamination, and stable physical properties.

 

Table 11: Low-Chlorine Content Diglycidyl Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Total Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA/Gardner)
Aliphatic diglycidyl ether (C12–14)	68609-97-2	270–290	≤0.25	≤10	≤50 (APHA)
Ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether	2224-15-9	115–130	≤1.0	15–20	≤50 (APHA)
Diethylene glycol diglycidyl ether	4206-61-5	115–130	≤0.5	20–30	≤50 (APHA)
1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether	2425-79-8	109–130	≤0.3	10–25	≤50 (APHA)
1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether	2425-79-8	101–107	≤0.15	~15	≤30 (APHA)
1,6-Hexanediol diglycidyl ether	16096-31-4	120–140	≤0.3	10–25	≤50 (APHA)
Neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether	17557-23-2	120–150	≤0.3	20–40	≤1 (Gardner)
1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol diglycidyl ether	14228-73-0	140–160	≤0.3	55–75	≤50 (APHA)
Polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether	26142-30-3	385–405	≤0.2	35–50	≤2 (Gardner)
Polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether	26142-30-3	290–303	≤0.3	35–50	≤2 (Gardner)
Trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether	30499-70-8	130–160	≤0.3	200–400	≤1 (Gardner)
p-tert-Butylphenol diglycidyl ether	3101-60-8	210–240	≤0.3	18–28	≤1 (Gardner)
3-Alkylphenol diglycidyl ether	68413-24-1	390–420	≤0.3	20–40	≤11 (Gardner)
Thiodiphenyl diglycidyl ether	16558-06-8	170–180	≤0.2	Melting point 42°C	≤5 (Gardner)
m-Aminophenol triglycidyl ether (high purity)	71604-74-5	92–95	≤0.03	1,800–2,200	≤10 (Gardner)

 

 

Potential of High-Viscosity Bio-Based Glycerol Ethers in Water-Resistant Adhesives

 

These are multifunctional epoxy compounds derived from natural polyol structures, featuring high viscosity and excellent water solubility. They are particularly suitable for formulations of water-based adhesives, UV-curable adhesives, and thermosetting adhesives. The multi-hydroxyl structure provides outstanding wetting ability and reactivity, effectively enhancing wet adhesion and compatibility with inorganic materials. These products also align with environmental trends, improving adhesive strength and curing uniformity, making them an ideal choice for high-performance, low-carbon formulations.

 

 

Table 12: Water-Soluble Polyglycidyl Glycerol Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	EEW (g/eq)	Total Chlorine Content (%)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA/Gardner)
1,4-Butanediol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether	2425-79-8	109–130	≤0.3	10–25	≤50 (APHA)
1,4-Butanediol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether	2425-79-8	101–107	≤0.15	~15	≤30 (APHA)
Ethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether	2224-15-9	115–130	≤1.0	15–20	≤50 (APHA)
Diethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether	4206-61-5	115–130	≤0.5	20–30	≤50 (APHA)
Polyethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether (MW 200)	39443-66-8	180–195	≤5.0	30–50	≤50 (APHA)
Polyethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether (MW 400)	39443-66-8	258–280	≤1.0	60–80	≤50 (APHA)
Polyethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Glycerol Ether (MW 600)	39443-66-8	350–375	≤3.0	100–130	≤50 (APHA)
Glycerol Polyglycidyl Ether	13236-02-7	135–150	≤12.0	≤200	≤50 (APHA)
Sorbitol Polyglycidyl Ether	68412-01-1	175–190	≤10.5	4,000–6,000	≤3 (Gardner)
Polyglycerol Polyglycidyl Ether	118549-88-5	160–180	≤1.0	≤1,300	≤50 (APHA)

 

 

Table 13: High-Purity Monofunctional Epoxy Glycerol Ethers

Chemical Name	CAS Number	Purity (%)	Total Chlorine Content (ppm)	Viscosity (cps, 25°C)	Color (APHA)
n-Butyl Glycidyl Ether	2426-08-6	≥ 99%	≤ 1,000	≤ 5	≤ 30
2-Ethylhexyl Glycidyl Ether	2461-15-6	≥ 99%	≤ 1,000	≤ 5	≤ 30
Phenyl Glycidyl Ether	122-60-1	≥ 99%	≤ 1,000	≤ 8	≤ 30
o-Tolyl Glycidyl Ether	2210-79-9	≥ 99%	≤ 1,000	≤ 10	≤ 30

 

 

 

test test

test

 

test