Pertochemicals - MALEIC ANHYDRIDE
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MALEIC ANHYDRIDE (MA)
Maleic Anhydride is the anhydride of maleic acid which carboxylic acid groups are next to each other in the cis form. Maleic Anhydride has a cyclic structure with a ring containing four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. It is soluble in acetone, hydrolyzing in water. It is prepared in commerce by the oxidation of benzene with catalyst at high temperatures or by the reaction of C4 (butane) with oxygen in the presence of vanadium catalyst.
Maleic Anhydride's biggest single use is in the manufacture of unsaturated polyester resins for use in fibre-reinforced plastics in the automotive, construction, marine, consumer goods and agricultural industries.
Maleic anhydride is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of fumaric and tartaric acid, certain agricultural chemicals, resins in numerous products, dye intermediates, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a co-monomer for unsaturated polyester resins,an ingredient in bonding agents used to manufacture plywood, a corrosion inhibitor, and a preservative in oils and fats.