Glutaric acid can be prepared by the ring-opening of butyrolactone with potassium cyanide to give the potassium salt of the carboxylate-nitrile that is hydrolyzed to the diacid.[1] Alternatively hydrolysis, followed by oxidation of dihydropyran gives glutaric acid. It can also be prepared from reacting 1,3-dibromopropane with sodium or potassium cyanide to obtain the dinitrile, followed by hydrolysis. Using periodate, it is obtained from oxidation of 1,3-cyclohexanedione, which proceeds with decarboxylation.[2]
Glutaric acid itself has been used in the production of polymers such as polyester polyols, polyamides. The odd number of carbon atoms (i.e. 5) is useful in decreasing polymer elasticity.[4]
Pyrogallol can be produced from glutaric diester.[5]
Safety
Glutaric acid may cause irritation to the skin and eyes.[6] Acute hazards include the fact that this compound may be harmful by ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption.[6]
^Peter Werle and Marcus Morawietz "Alcohols, Polyhydric" in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry: 2002, Wiley-VCH: Weinheim. DOI 10.1002/14356007.a01_305