Phthalic Anhydride (PA)

Phthalic Anhydride (PA) is mostly produced by selective oxidation of o-xylene fed as a gas. Because of the high exothermicity of the reaction, multitubular reactors cooled by molten salts are the standard technology. However, hot spots with associated reduced selectivity and catalyst deactivation are detriments in practical operation.

At room temperature, forms white crystal like flakes, when molten, it’s a clear liquid without sediment and turbidity.

Application:

• Alkyd resins
• Unsaturated polyester resins
• Base for coating and paints 
• Lacquers
• Detergents
• Fire retardants

Phthalic anhydride is the anhydride of phthalic acid. This colorless solid is an important industrial chemical, especially for the large–scale production of plasticizers for plastics. It is presently obtained by catalytic oxidation of ortho–xylene or naphthalene. Phthalic anhydride can also be prepared from phthalic acid.

Phthalic anhydride is a versatile intermediate in organic chemistry, in part because it is bifunctional and readily available. The primary use of phthalic anhydride (PA) is as a chemical intermediate in the production of plasticizers from polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

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