| Formula / Notation | C8H6O4 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 100-21-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 166.13 |
| Melting Point | Sublimes (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | greater than 572 °F at 760 mmHg (sublimes without melting) (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.51 (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Solubility | Insoluble (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Terephthalic acid is a white powder. (NTP, 1992) |
| Also Known As | 100-21-0; p-Phthalic acid; 1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid; benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid; p-Dicarboxybenzene; 1,4-dicarboxybenzene; p-Benzenedicarboxylic acid; p-Carboxybenzoic acid; Acide terephtalique; Tephthol |
| Category | Acids |
What is Terephthalic acid?
Terephthalic acid is a benzenedicarboxylic acid carrying carboxy groups at positions 1 and 4. One of three possible isomers of benzenedicarboxylic acid, the others being phthalic and isophthalic acids. It is a conjugate acid of a terephthalate(1-).
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: terephthalic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: 100-21-0; p-Phthalic acid; 1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid; benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid; p-Dicarboxybenzene; 1,4-dicarboxybenzene; p-Benzenedicarboxylic acid; p-Carboxybenzoic acid; Acide terephtalique; Tephthol
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Sublimes (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | greater than 572 °F at 760 mmHg (sublimes without melting) (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.51 (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Molecular Weight | 166.13 |
| Solubility | Insoluble (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Terephthalic acid is a white powder. (NTP, 1992) |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Terephthalic acid is a benzenedicarboxylic acid carrying carboxy groups at positions 1 and 4. One of three possible isomers of benzenedicarboxylic acid, the others being phthalic and isophthalic acids. It is a conjugate acid of a terephthalate(1-).
Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.
Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.
The formula or notation for Terephthalic acid is: C8H6O4