Uses of Maleic Anhydride

Maleic anhydride is an important organic chemical raw material with a wide range of applications across multiple industries. Its main uses are as follows:

1. Production of Polymer Materials

Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR): This is the largest application field of maleic anhydride. MA reacts with diols (such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol) to form unsaturated polyester resins. These resins are widely used in the manufacturing of fiberglass-reinforced plastics (FRP), which find applications in boats, automotive parts, chemical equipment, and building materials due to their high strength, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties.

Alkyd Resins: Maleic anhydride is used in the synthesis of alkyd resins, which are key components in decorative paints, industrial coatings, and varnishes. Alkyd resins improve the adhesion, gloss, and durability of coatings.

Other Polymers: It can be copolymerized with monomers like styrene, vinyl acetate, and acrylic esters to produce copolymers. These copolymers are used in adhesives, textile auxiliaries, and plastic modifiers to enhance product performance (e.g., heat resistance, flexibility).

2. Chemical Intermediates

Production of Organic Acids: Cis-Butenedioic Anhydride undergoes hydrolysis to form maleic acid, and further hydrogenation can produce succinic acid or tetrahydrophthalic anhydride. These products are important intermediates for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and surfactants.

Synthesis of Pesticides: Maleic Anhydride Acid is a raw material for manufacturing certain pesticides, such as herbicides (e.g., glyphosate intermediates) and insecticides, contributing to pest control in agricultural production.

Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Maleic Acid Anhydride is used in the synthesis of some pharmaceutical raw materials, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and vitamins, playing a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry.

3. Paper and Textile Industries

Paper Sizing Agent: Maleic anhydride copolymers are used as internal sizing agents for paper. They can improve the water resistance and printability of paper, making it suitable for packaging paper, cultural paper, and other types of paper.

Textile Auxiliaries: 2 5-Furandine is used to produce textile finishing agents, such as crease-resistant and shrink-resistant agents. These agents can enhance the wearability and durability of fabrics, especially for cotton and polyester fabrics.

4. Oil and Gas Industry

Corrosion Inhibitor: Maleic anhydride derivatives (e.g., maleic anhydride-vinylpyrrolidone copolymers) are used as corrosion inhibitors in oilfield water treatment and oil and gas pipelines. They can form a protective film on the metal surface, reducing corrosion caused by water and corrosive media.

Scale Inhibitor: Cis-Butenedioic Anhydrides Maleic Anhydride is also used in the preparation of scale inhibitors, which prevent the formation of scale (such as calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate) in oilfield equipment and pipelines, ensuring the smooth operation of production.

5. Other Applications

Food Additives: Certain maleic anhydride derivatives (e.g., succinic acid, which is produced from maleic anhydride) are used as food additives, such as acidulants and flavor enhancers, in the food industry.

Lubricant Additives: Maleic Anhydride Flakes is used to synthesize lubricant additives, such as dispersants and antioxidants, which can improve the performance and service life of lubricating oils.