Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA)
Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA) is a trifunctional, highly reactive aromatic anhydride.
The majority of TMA is used in the synthesis of plasticizers for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins, especially where temperature stability is required. These plasticizers have applications in wire and cable insulation, automotive parts and medical equipment. Plasticizers made from TMA have low volatility, good extraction resistance, good permanence, and low marring.
A smaller portion of TMA is used as a reactant in wire and cable insulation enamels and polyester resins in powder coatings. The remaining amount is used in applications such as an epoxy curing agent, rubber curing accelerator, and vinyl cross-link agent.
