The major outlet for phthalic anhydride (PA) is in the manufacture of phthalate plasticisers, the main product being dioctyl phthalate (DOP) which is used as a plasticiser in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The second largest use of PA is in unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) which are used to produce fibreglass-reinforced resins.
Worldwide growth rates for phthalic anhydride are expected to be around 3.0-3.5%/year over the next five years. The highest growth rates are in emerging markets such as China, India and southeast Asia.
Phthalic anhydride is produced by the catalytic oxidation of orthoxylene with air or by the catalytic oxidation of naphthalene. Orthoxylene is the preferred feedstock but some producers have the capability to switch to naphthalene.
Phthalic anhydride occurs as white solid in various forms or clear molten liquid, with an irritating odour. Phthalic anhydride is irritating to the eyes, skin, nose and throat. Phthalic anhydride is stable but reacts with moisture to give phthalic acid which corrodes metals.
Phthalic anhydride
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Phthalic anhydride
Uses and Outlook
The major outlet for phthalic anhydride (PA), accounting for just over half of production, is in the manufacture of phthalate plasticisers, the main product being dioctyl phthalate (DOP) which is used as a plasticiser in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Hence, the consumption of PA is mainly dependent on the growth of flexible PVC, which is sensitive to general economic conditions as it consumed in the construction and automobile industries. Health and environmental issues that surround phthalates used in plasticisers for PVC could also hinder future growth prospects.
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Phthalic anhydride
Process Technologies
Phthalic anhydride was first produced by the oxidation of naphthalene in concentrated sulphuric acid in the presence of mercury sulphate. This route was later replaced by the catalytic vapour phase oxidation of naphthalene in air in the presence of a vanadium oxide catalyst.
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