Maleic anhydride

Maleic anhydride (CAS 108-31-6), also known as MA, is a high-volume reactive monomer and chemical intermediate used across polymer, resin, and specialty chemical manufacturing. It functions primarily as a building block for unsaturated polyester resins, copolymers, and maleic acid derivatives, enabling cross-linking, surface modification, and functional grafting in downstream formulations.

In plastics and polymer processing, MA is grafted onto polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene to improve adhesion, compatibility, and surface wettability in compounded materials. Unsaturated polyester resin producers rely on it as a core monomer for laminates, gel coats, and fiber-reinforced composites used in construction and automotive parts.

In textile and paper treatment, maleic anhydride-derived copolymers are used as sizing agents and surface modifiers to improve fiber bonding and coating adhesion. Personal care formulators use MA-based copolymers as film-forming and fixative agents in hair care products. Maleic anhydride is supplied as molten liquid for bulk industrial delivery.

It is also available as briquettes and flakes for easier handling in smaller volumes. Standard commercial grades include technical and industrial purity levels, typically at 99%+ purity. Specifications are aligned to major resin and polymer manufacturing requirements. Packaging ranges from bulk tankers and ISO containers to drums and supersacks depending on volume requirements.