Simplified evaluation aided by mathematical calculation for characterization of polyols by hydroxyl value determination

Hydroxyl value is a fundamental characterization number that is extensively applicable in polymer science. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has described several methods to determine the hydroxyl value. However, the routinely practiced ASTM method requires noxious chemicals and involves laborious procedure to determine the hydroxyl value. The described method in this study is based on the reaction of p‐toluenesulfonyl isocyanate and polyol, followed by neutralization titration to calculate the hydroxyl number. Mathematical calculation has been employed to derive an equation for determining the hydroxyl value, which provides user-friendly approach. The method has been validated by comparing the hydroxyl value determined by using ASTM standards. The proposed method proved to be accurate, reproducible. Also, it is rapid, simple, easily accessible, and low-cost method to determine hydroxyl groups.