Mannitol is a sugar alcohol (or polyol) organic compound, specifically a hexitol. It has a wide range of applications:

Pharm field:

1. Pharm excipient: an excellent filler, binder, sweetener, freeze-drying diluent, or protectant for tablets, capsules, granules, powders, and other drugs or health products.

2. As a hyperosmotic dehydrating agent, used to treat cerebral edema and glaucoma by increasing plasma osmotic pressure to reduce intracranial and intraocular pressure.

3. As an osmotic diuretic, used for the prevention and treatment of acute renal failure, promoting urine output.

Food field:

1. As a low-calorie sweetener (sweetness approximately 57%-72% that of sucrose), used in sugar-free candies, chewing gum, pastries, etc.

2. Provides moisture resistance, anti-sticking, and humectant properties, extending the shelf life of food products.

Chemical and materials field:

1. Used in the synthesis of polymer materials such as poly(mannitol esters) and poly(mannitol ethers), applied in plastics, rubber, and coatings.

2. Can serve as a plasticizer and stabilizer, used in the production of rosin esters, artificial glycerol resins, and more.