Synthesis and characterization of isosorbide derived polyols as highly effective humectants

Isosorbide is a bicyclic ether derivative of glucose. It is recognized as a ¿green¿ substance and is hygroscopic at > 30% relative humidity. Since it is water soluble and harmless, isosorbide is used as a multi-functional carrier in many pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. In order to find a ¿green¿ replacement for polyethyleneoxide in cosmetic formulations, glycerine (propanetriol) a known skin softener and humectant was chemically combined with isosorbide to improve the hygroscopic properties. The synthetic route developed for this work not only provides a series of highly effective humectants but also generates a range of epoxides which are promising candidates for replacing bisphenol-A based epoxies and also as plastic additives. All the intermediates generated during the syntheses were characterized by NMR and FTIR. Water absorption tests were conducted in a humidity chamber with specific relative humidities.