Trimellitic anhydride
CAS Number
552-30-7
EC Number
209-008-0
Abbreviation
TMA
What is Trimellitic anhydride?
Trimellitic anhydride (CAS 552-30-7), commonly abbreviated as TMA, is a reactive aromatic anhydride used as a monomer and curing agent in polymer and coating systems.
Where is Trimellitic anhydride used?
- Coatings: reacted with polyols or amines to produce polyimide and polyester resins that withstand elevated temperatures and chemical exposure
- Plastics: manufacture of plasticizers, particularly trimellitate esters, for flexible PVC in wire and cable insulation
- Adhesives and sealants: cross-linking monomer to improve heat resistance and adhesion to metal substrates
- Pigments and dyes: intermediate in the synthesis of reactive dyes and color developers
- It introduces carboxylic acid functionality into resin backbones, enabling cross-linking, chain extension, and surface-reactive formulations.
Good to know: Moisture-sensitive; storage requirements are communicated in product documentation to maintain material integrity.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 98–99%+ by GC
- Packaging: multi-wall bags to bulk supersacks
Other Names (Synonyms)
Trimellitic acid cyclic 1,2-anhydride|Trimellitic acid anhydride|Trimellitic acid 1,2-anhydride|Trimellic acid anhydride|Trimellic acid 1,2-anhydride|Benzene-1,2,4-tricarboxylic-1,2-anhydride|Anhydrotrimellitic acid|Anhydrotrimellic acid|TMA
What are the physical properties of Trimellitic anhydride?
Melting Point 161-163.5 °C
Boiling Point 390 °C
Density 1.54
Flash Point 227 °C
Appearance Trimellitic anhydride is a crystalline solid. It is the anhydride of trimellitic acid (1,2,4-benzenetricarboxylic acid).
Color White to off-white
Form Flakes
Water Solubility DECOMPOSES
Vapor Pressure <0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index 1.4717 (estimate)
pH 2 (21g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P 0.06-0.54 at 20℃
How is Trimellitic anhydride classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H303 May be harmful if swallowed
H316 Causes mild skin irritation
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction
H318 Causes serious eye damage
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 Trimellitic anhydride?
HS Code 29173980
Storage Class 11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany) 1