Glycerol ester gum rosin is a type of rosin derivative produced by esterifying gum rosin with glycerol.

Gum rosin, also known as colophony, is a natural resin obtained from pine trees and is commonly used in various industries. Glycerol, also called glycerin, is a colorless, odorless, and non-toxic liquid commonly used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

The esterification process involves reacting gum rosin with glycerol under specific conditions, resulting in the formation of ester bonds between the rosin and glycerol molecules. This modification alters the properties of the gum rosin, making it more soluble in certain solvents and improving its compatibility with other materials.

Glycerol ester gum rosin finds applications in industries such as adhesives, coatings, inks, and chewing gum bases. It is often used as a tackifier or as a component in adhesive formulations to enhance adhesion and cohesion properties. Additionally, its improved solubility makes it useful in various coating applications.

As with other rosin derivatives, proper safety measures should be taken during the handling and processing of glycerol ester gum rosin products.