Phthalic anhydride is widely used worldwide for an extremely broad range of applications spanning from the plastics industry to the synthesis of resins, agricultural fungicides and amines. Its production is currently based on the vapor phase oxidation of o-xylene and naphthalene.

Widely used in the production of plasticizers and pigments, and also as an anti-scorching agent, and as a light- and heat-stabilizer of polyolefins. Phthalic anhydride is a monomer for synthetic resins such as glyptal, the alkyd resins, and the polyester resins intended for contact with food.

Moderately toxic by inhalation or ingestion and a skin irritant. ... The acute (short-term) effects from exposure to phthalic anhydride in humans consists of irritation to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin, but no permanent injury is observed.

Phthalic anhydride is the organic compound with the formula C6H4(CO)2O. It is the anhydride of phthalic acid. Phthalic anhydride is a principal commercial form of phthalic acid. It was the first anhydride of a dicarboxylic acid to be used commercially.

PHTHALIC ANHYDRIDE FOR SYNTHESIS