Overview
Trimellitic anhydride (CAS 552-30-7 ), commonly abbreviated as TMA, is a reactive aromatic anhydride used as a monomer and curing agent across polymer and coating systems. It introduces carboxylic acid functionality into resin backbones, enabling cross-linking, chain extension, and surface-reactive formulations.
In high-performance coatings, TMA is reacted with polyols or amines to produce polyimide and polyester resins that withstand elevated temperatures and chemical exposure. These specialized resins are essential for industrial applications requiring durability.
The plastics industry uses it to manufacture plasticizers, particularly trimellitate esters, for flexible PVC in wire and cable insulation. These materials require low volatility at high operating temperatures to ensure safety and longevity.
Adhesive and sealant formulators incorporate TMA as a cross-linking monomer to improve heat resistance and adhesion to metal substrates. This chemical property makes it a vital component in demanding structural bonding applications.
In pigment and dye manufacturing, it acts as an intermediate in the synthesis of reactive dyes and color developers. Its unique structure allows for the creation of stable and vibrant colorants used in various industrial sectors.
Trimellitic anhydride is supplied as an off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder or flake. Technical grade is the standard commercial form, with purity typically at 98–99%+ by GC, ensuring consistent performance in chemical synthesis.
Packaging ranges from multi-wall bags to bulk supersacks to meet diverse logistical needs. Storage requirements for moisture-sensitive handling are strictly communicated in product documentation to maintain material integrity.
Contact us for supply of Trimellitic anhydride
Physical Properties
| 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℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS08 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 H334 May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H370 Causes damage to organs H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure 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. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P284 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P403 Store in a well-ventilated place. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P342+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29173980 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 552-30-7
- EC Number
- 209-008-0
- Mol. Weight
- 192.12
- HS Code
- 29173980
- Category
- Pigments & Colorants