Trade name of the product: maleic anhydride

Chemical name of the compound: furano-2,5-dion

Synonyms: 2,5-Furandione; Toxilic Anhydride; Maleic Acid Anhydride; Maleic Anhydride; Cis-Butenedioic Anhydride

Chemical and physical properties: The anhydride occurs in the form of: colorless or white crystalline needles, flakes, granules, rods, briquettes, nodules or – after melting – a colorless, transparent liquid. It has an irritating, pungent odor. Soluble in, among others, water, alcohols, ether, acetone, dioxane and aromatic hydrocarbons.

Application of the substance: in the production of paints, varnishes (in copolymers with vinyl acetate), polyester (unsaturated) and alkyd resins and plastics (monomers – especially in polymerization reactions) and plasticizers, as well as solvents for plastics, fibers elastics, softeners, fragrances, fungicides, as a modifying agent for unsaturated oils, rosin and terpene resins. Also one of the ingredients in the production of as tetrahydrofuran, 1,4-butanediol or fumaric acid.

Health safety: Inhalation causes coughing, sneezing and throat irritation. Skin contact causes irritation and redness. Vapors may cause serious irritation of mucous membranes and eyes: photophobia and double vision may occur.

More information is available in the product data sheet, available at this address.