1. What is Maleic Anhydride?
Maleic Anhydride (CAS 108-31-6) is a highly reactive unsaturated organic compound and a cornerstone building block in industrial polymer chemistry. It appears as white crystalline briquettes, flakes, or colorless needles with a characteristic acrid odor. Its chemical reactivity combines a cyclic anhydride group and a conjugated double bond, enabling esterification, hydrolysis, and signature Diels-Alder cycloaddition reactions. SNOWHITE CHEMICAL CO., LTD ensures a stable supply of high-purity material manufactured via advanced n-butane catalytic oxidation.
Basic Chemical Information
Chemical Name: Maleic Anhydride
Molecular Formula: C₄H₂O₃
Molecular Weight: 98.06 g/mol
CAS No.: 108-31-6
HS Code: 29171400
Appearance: White crystalline briquettes, pastilles, or flakes
Maleic anhydride is moisture-sensitive and chemically stable when stored in sealed, dry containers away from heat and light. When properly packaged, it is suitable for standard international transportation.
2. Physical Properties & Handling Specifications

Understanding Maleic Anhydride's physical behavior is essential for safe storage and efficient processing. The material is moisture-sensitive and requires sealed, dry conditions to prevent hydrolysis to maleic acid.
Key technical specifications include:
Melting Point: 52.0 – 55.0 °C
Boiling Point: 200 – 202 °C
Density: 1.48 g/cm³ (solid)
Molar Mass: 98.06 g/mol
Flash Point: 102 – 103 °C (closed cup)
For detailed safety handling and emergency measures, our Maleic Anhydride SDS documents are available upon request, providing full transparency on exposure controls and first aid procedures.
3. Quality Control & Typical Specifications
At SNOWHITE CHEMICAL CO., LTD, we implement a rigorous quality control protocol to ensure batch-to-batch consistency for downstream manufacturing. Our industrial grade product adheres to the following strict specifications:
|
Analysis Parameter |
Units |
Specification Standard |
|
Purity (GC) |
% |
≥ 99.5 |
|
Melting Point |
°C |
52.0 – 56.0 |
|
Moisture Content |
% |
≤ 0.1 |
|
Color (APHA, molten) |
— |
≤ 50 |
|
Ash Content |
% |
≤ 0.01 |
|
Conclusion |
Qualified |
|
4. Core Industrial Applications & Uses
Maleic Anhydride serves as a critical intermediate across multiple high-volume industrial sectors. Its versatility in Diels-Alder reactions and polymer formation makes it irreplaceable in modern manufacturing.
Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR): This is the largest global application for Maleic Anhydride, accounting for over 50% of global production. It provides essential cross-linking sites that impart mechanical strength and chemical resistance to fiberglass-reinforced plastics used in automotive parts, boat hulls, and construction panels.
Lubricant Additives & Copolymers: Maleic Anhydride is utilized to produce succinic anhydride derivatives that function as high-performance dispersants and viscosity modifiers in engine oils. Additionally, it is a key comonomer in the production of specialty copolymers and paper-sizing agents.
Agrochemical & Fine Chemical Synthesis: The compound acts as a precursor for widely used plant protection agents, including the insecticide malathion and the plant growth regulator maleic hydrazide. It is also a vital intermediate in the synthesis of fumaric acid and malic acid.
5. Packaging, Storage & Safety Essentials
Proper handling ensures product integrity and workplace safety. Maleic Anhydride is moisture-sensitive and classified as a corrosive material under GHS standards (UN 2215, Class 8, Packing Group III).
Packaging Options:
Standard: 25 kg multi-wall bags with inner PE liner
Bulk: 500 kg or 1000 kg jumbo bags
Molten: Insulated ISO tank containers for large-volume consumers
Storage Guidance:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Maleic Anhydride may cause severe skin burns and eye damage; direct contact with water or high humidity should be avoided to prevent product degradation.
6. Reliable Supply & Technical Support
SNOWHITE CHEMICAL CO., LTD is committed to providing a seamless procurement experience from our production hubs in China to your global facility. Our supply chain is optimized for reliability and transparency.
Why Source From Us?
Consistent Quality: Stable industrial grade quality for long-term bulk cooperation
Complete Documents: COA, SDS and TDS available for each batch
Global Logistics: Stable delivery for packaged goods and molten material
Contact Us
Contact SNOWHITE CHEMICAL CO.,LTD now to get COA, free samples and the latest quotation.
Email: shirley@snowhitechem.com
Phone: +86-25-56215758
WhatsApp:+86-13776524331

