Glycerin carbonate (GC) is unique among the family of cyclic carbonates in that it has two reactive sites. The hydroxyl group also gives the molecule unique solvency and reactive possibilities. The various chemical routes to the formation of glycerin carbonate will be discussed. Although many routes have been studied, one route seems to elevate itself as the most commercially and economically attractive choice. As GC is made from glycerin, which in turn comes from transesterification of vegetable oils, it has a high renewably sourced content, which is a positive in many markets today.

Many example commercial uses for glycerin carbonate will be presented. Examples of uses are as a solvent in personal care, as a CO2 absorption solvent, polycarbonate raw material and as a reactive solvent in polyurethane coatings, among many other uses. The unique physical properties of glycerin carbonate will be discussed. GC has a very low vapor pressure making it an ideal low odor solvent. Its toxicity profile is also favorable given that it decomposes back to benign glycerin in the environment.

Glycerin carbonate is commercially available today and is TSCA and EINECS registered. However, GC has not been able to find large scale use in the past due to the high cost of manufacture. Huntsman is developing a proprietary process that will break through the cost barriers that should allow more widespread use in a variety of applications.