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Terephthalic Acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H6O4
CAS number
100-21-0
IUPAC name
terephthalic acid
State
State

At room temperature, terephthalic acid is a solid substance. It is stable under normal conditions, and due to its crystalline nature, it does not vaporize easily.

Melting point (Celsius)
427.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
700.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
402.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
675.15
General information
Molecular weight
166.13g/mol
Molar mass
166.1300g/mol
Density
1.5220g/cm3
Appearence

Terephthalic acid appears as a colorless or white crystalline powder. The crystals are typically needle-like and can form clumps under certain conditions. It is known for its solid, translucent structure that adds to its utility in various industrial applications.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Terephthalic Acid

Terephthalic acid, with the chemical formula C8H6O4, is a crystalline compound that exhibits specific solubility characteristics. Understanding its solubility is essential for applications in various fields, including polymer science and materials engineering. Here are some key points regarding the solubility of terephthalic acid:

  • Solvent Interaction: Terephthalic acid is sparingly soluble in water but demonstrates a better solubility profile in organic solvents, particularly polar solvents.
  • Temperature Dependency: The solubility of terephthalic acid increases with an increase in temperature, making hot solvents more effective for its dissolution.
  • pH Influence: As a dicarboxylic acid, the solubility of terephthalic acid is affected by pH levels. It is more soluble in alkaline conditions due to ionization of the carboxylic groups.
  • Practical Applications: Insights into its solubility behavior are critical for processes such as polymerization, wherein terephthalic acid is used to produce polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

As you explore the characteristics of terephthalic acid, remember that the right choice of solvent and conditions can significantly enhance its solubility. This knowledge is pivotal for effectively utilizing this compound in industrial applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Terephthalic Acid

Terephthalic acid, commonly known as 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, is a pivotal compound in the chemical industry, particularly in the production of polyester fibers and resins. Here are some fascinating aspects about this vital compound:

  • Polymer Precursor: Terephthalic acid is best known as a key monomer in the synthesis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), a widely used plastic found in everything from beverage bottles to clothing.
  • Environmental Considerations: The recycling of PET made from terephthalic acid is significant in reducing environmental impact. This polymer can often be recycled multiple times without substantial degradation in quality.
  • Industrial Importance: Beyond textiles and packaging, this compound is also utilized in the manufacture of high-performance plastics and films, making it essential in various advanced material applications.
  • Synthesis: Terephthalic acid is synthesized through the oxidation of p-xylene, showcasing the importance of oxidation reactions in organic chemistry.
  • Medical Applications: Its derivatives are being researched for potential applications in drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility.

As a chemical compound characterized by its durability and adaptability, terephthalic acid not only plays a fundamental role in day-to-day products but also offers exciting avenues for research, especially in sustainable materials. As Dr. Robert H. Grubbs once said, "Chemistry is a way of thinking that can lead to creative solutions in various fields," and terephthalic acid exemplifies this sentiment.

Synonyms
TEREPHTHALIC ACID
100-21-0
p-Phthalic acid
1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid
benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid
p-Dicarboxybenzene
p-Benzenedicarboxylic acid
p-Carboxybenzoic acid
Acide terephtalique
Tephthol
1,4-dicarboxybenzene
para-Phthalic acid
Kyselina tereftalova
4-Carboxybenzoic Acid
TA-33MP
WR 16262
NSC 36973
HSDB 834
TA 12
CCRIS 2786
p-Phthalate
UNII-6S7NKZ40BQ
EINECS 202-830-0
Kyselina terftalova
6S7NKZ40BQ
BRN 1909333
DTXSID6026080
CHEBI:15702
AI3-16108
MFCD00002558
NSC-36973
Benzene-p-dicarboxylic acid
para-benzenedicarboxylic acid
DTXCID006080
EC 202-830-0
4-09-00-03301 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
terephthalicacid
Acide terephtalique [French]
Kyselina tereftalova [Czech]
CAS-100-21-0
terephtalic acid
P-Phthelate
P-Phthelic acid
UB7
p-Benzenedicarboxylate
terephthalsäure
Benzene-p-dicarboxylate
p-Dicarboxybenzoic acid
P-PTHALIC ACID
benzene-1,4-dioic acid
WLN: QVR DVQ
Terephthalic acid, 97%
Terephthalic acid, 98%
Purified terephthalic acid
benzoic acid, 4-carboxy-
SCHEMBL1655
Benzene, p-dicarboxylic acid
Terephthalic acid (Standard)
BIDD:ER0245
1,4-benzene dicarboxylic acid
TEREPHTHALIC ACID [MI]
CHEMBL1374420
TEREPHTHALIC ACID [HSDB]
Benzene, 1,4-Dicarboxylic acid
BCP06429
HY-W010098R
NSC36973
STR02759
Tox21_201659
Tox21_303229
s6251
STL281856
Terephthalic acid, analytical standard
AKOS000119464
CS-W010814
FT28042
HY-W010098
NCGC00091618-01
NCGC00091618-02
NCGC00091618-03
NCGC00257014-01
NCGC00259208-01
AC-10250
BP-21157
NS00003928
T0166
EN300-18042
C06337
G73905
Terephthalic acid, SAJ special grade, >=98.0%
AE-562/40217759
Q408984
Terephthalic acid, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%
Z57127536
1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid;1,4-Dicarboxybenzene;4-Carboxybenzoic acid
202-830-0
211863-90-0