maleic anhydride

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless crystalline, unsaturated compound, C 4 H 2 O 3 , that is soluble in acetone and hydrolyzes in water: used in the production of polyester resins, pesticides, and fumaric and tartaric acids.

Word History and Origins

Origin of maleic anhydride¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

The new birth control blocks sperm from leaving a man’s genitals by injecting a compound called Styrene Maleic Anhydride into the vas deferens and is slated to last for 13 years.

Read more on Washington Times

Maleic anhydride is obtained by distilling fumaric acid with phosphorus pentoxide.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

It sublimes to some extent at about 200� C., being partially converted into maleic anhydride and water, the reaction becoming practically quantitative if dehydrating agents be used.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

It crystallizes in monoclinic prisms, which are easily soluble in water, melt at 130� C., and boil at 160� C., decomposing into water and maleic anhydride.

Read more on Project Gutenberg