Properties and Stability of Maleic Anhydride

Ⅰ. Properties of Maleic Anhydride

The molecular formula of maleic anhydride is C4H2O3 and the molecular weight is 98.06. Colorless crystal with strong irritating smell, freezing point 52.8℃, boiling point 202℃, easy to sublime. It is mainly produced by oxidation of n-butane or butene in benzene or C4 fractions. It is a raw material for the production of unsaturated polyester and organic synthesis.

Ⅱ. The Stability of Maleic Anhydride

1. Avoid contact with humid air. Avoid contact with strong oxidants, strong reducing agents, strong acids, strong alkalis, alkali metals, and water. The orthorhombic crystal is a colorless needle-like or flaky crystal. Dissolve in water to generate maleic acid. Soluble in ethanol and generate esters.

Maleic anhydride is soluble in many organic solvents such as ethanol and ether, but hardly soluble in petroleum ether and carbon tetrachloride. Maleic anhydride and water form maleic acid. It is easy to copolymerize vinyl monomers; homopolymerization is also possible. It reacts with a diol to form linear unsaturated polyester and reacts with sulfur trioxide to form sulfonated maleic anhydride. It is combustible and toxic. Rinse with plenty of water when splashed on the skin. The production equipment should be sealed, and the operators should wear protective equipment.

2. Maleic anhydride stimulates the skin and mucous membranes. When the human body comes into contact with high-temperature liquid, its irritation is more serious, which can cause skin burns, conjunctiva and cornea swelling, and in severe cases, vision loss or even blindness. When splashing on the skin, rinse with plenty of water. The production equipment should be sealed, and the operators should wear protective equipment.

Uses of maleic anhydride: maleic anhydride can be used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, as well as in the production of coatings, drugs, agricultural products and surfactants