Flame Retardants
REACH
Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride
CAS Number
117-08-8
EC Number
204-171-4
Abbreviation
TCPA
Industries: Plastics & Polymers
What is Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride?
Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride (CAS 117-08-8), commonly abbreviated as TCPA, is a chlorinated cyclic anhydride used as a reactive flame retardant and chemical intermediate in polymer and coating systems.
Where is Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride used?
- Epoxy resin formulations for printed circuit boards: curing agent that imparts halogenated flame retardancy to the cured matrix
- Polyester and alkyd resins: monomer that builds fire-retardant properties into coatings for construction panels
- Industrial textiles and paper treatment: TCPA-derived intermediates meet flame resistance standards for packaging and protective fabrics
- PVC compounding: plasticizer precursor
- It bonds directly into polymer backbones, delivering durable fire resistance without migration losses.
Good to know: Unlike additive flame retardants, it bonds directly into polymer backbones, delivering durable fire resistance without migration losses.
Commercial specifications
- Technical grade, purity typically 98% or higher
- Bulk quantities in fiber drums or multi-wall bags
Other Names (Synonyms)
Tetrathal|etrachlorophthalic acid anhydride|4,5,6,7-Tetrachloro-1,3-isobenzofurandione|1,3-Dioxy-4,5,6,7-tetrachloroisobenzofuran|Niagathal|1,3-Isobenzofurandione, 4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-|4,5,6,7-Tetrachloro-2-benzofuran-1,3-dione|Phthalic anhydride, tetrachloro-|TCPA
What are the physical properties of Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride?
Melting Point 255-256.5 °C
Boiling Point 371 °C
Density 1.49
Flash Point 362°C
Appearance white needle-like crystals or powder
Color White to off-white
Form Flakes
Water Solubility 0.8 mg/L (21 ºC)
Vapor Pressure 0.16 mm Hg ( 145 °C)
Log P 3.2 at 25℃
How is Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS08· Health Hazard GHS09· Environmental Hazard GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H320 Causes eye irritation
H334 May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled
Precautionary Statements
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride?
HS Code 29173990
UN Number 3077
ADR Class 9
Packing Group III
Storage Class 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3
toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 2