What elements make up terephthalic acid?

Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with formula C6H4(CO2H)2. This white solid is a commodity chemical, used principally as a precursor to the polyester PET, used to make clothing and plastic bottles. Several million tonnes are produced annually.

What is terephthalic acid used for?

Eastman™ Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) is used to manufacture polyester coatings resins for use in the formulation of general metal, appliance, automotive, industrial maintenance, and coil coatings. The primary application for PTA is in combination with Eastman NPG™ Glycol in polyester powder coating resins.

What is the structure of terephthalic acid?

C8H6O4
Terephthalic acid/Formula

Is terephthalic acid flammable?

Insoluble in water. SYMPTOMS: Symptoms of exposure to this compound may include irritation of the skin and eyes. TEREPHTHALIC ACID is a carboxylic acid. Flammable and/or toxic gases and heat are generated by reaction with diazo compounds, dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrides, and sulfides.

What kind of chemical is terephthalic acid used for?

Terephthalic acid is a white powder. (NTP, 1992) Terephthalic acid is one isomer of the three phthalic acids. It finds important use as a commodity chemical, principally as a starting compound for the manufacture of polyester (specifically PET), used in clothing and to make plastic bottles.

What is the reactivity profile of terephthalic acid?

Reactivity Profile. TEREPHTHALIC ACID is a carboxylic acid. It donates hydrogen ions if a base is present to accept them. This “neutralization” generates substantial amounts of heat and produces water plus a salt.

How is terephthalic acid used in plastic bottles?

Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with formula C6H4(CO2H)2. This white solid is a commodity chemical, used principally as a precursor to the polyester PET, used to make clothing and plastic bottles. Terephthalic acid was produced by oxidation of p-xylene with dilute nitric acid.

Why is terephthalic acid bad for the environment?

Hazards. TEREPHTHALIC ACID is a carboxylic acid. It donates hydrogen ions if a base is present to accept them. This “neutralization” generates substantial amounts of heat and produces water plus a salt. Insoluble in water but even “insoluble” carboxylic acids may absorb enough water from the air and dissolve sufficiently in it to corrode…