Phthalic anhydride, abbreviated as phthalic anhydride, is a cyclic anhydride formed by dehydration of phthalic acid molecules. In general, phthalic anhydride is a white solid and is one of the important raw materials in the chemical industry, especially in the manufacture of plasticizers, where it has more significant efficacy and effects.

Under normal circumstances, phthalic anhydride can undergo hydrolysis reaction and react with aromatic hydrocarbons to produce anthraquinone derivatives. Phthalic anhydride has a wide range of industrial applications. It can replace phthalic acid and react with monoalcohols to form esters such as dibutyl phthalate and phthalic acid. So, what are the functions of phthalic anhydride?

In real life, phthalic anhydride is a very important plasticizer. Phthalic anhydride can polymerize with polyols to form polyarylester resins, which are currently mainly used in the paint industry. If combined with ethylene glycol and unsaturated acids, unsaturated polyester resin will be generated, which can be used to manufacture insulation paints and glass fiber reinforced plastics. Phthalic anhydride is also an important raw material for the synthesis of benzoic acid and can be used in medical applications.

Phthalic anhydride has a wide range of applications, especially in the industrial and chemical fields, with great prospects. However, phthalic anhydride can easily cause certain harm to the human body, and in severe cases, it can also endanger people's health, especially the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. In severe cases, it may cause skin burns. Accidentally inhaling it can also cause respiratory diseases such as coughing and sneezing.

Phthalic anhydride is prone to leakage during use. Once a leakage occurs, the contaminated area should be isolated and other personnel should be prohibited from entering or leaving. At the same time, it is recommended that emergency personnel also take protective measures, such as wearing self-contained breathing apparatus and acid and alkali resistant work clothes, to avoid direct contact with the leaked material. After a small amount of leakage occurs, dust should be avoided and the leaked material should be collected in a dry and clean container with a clean shovel.