Technical Fumaric Acid

Introduction

Fumaric acid are used in two types of reactions: esterification – for the manufacture of polyesters, alkyd resins and plasticizers; and for the manufacture of intermediates for copolymerization and organic synthesis.

Applications

Alkyd Resins, Paints and Varnishes – Superior properties are obtained when 3-5% of phthalic anhydride is replaced by Fumaric Acid. Paints and varnishes prepared with a resin base of Fumaric Acid present a greater resistance to water and alkali products, surfaces with faster drying characteristics and better color retention. The best properties are also obtained when Fumaric Acid substitutes Maleic Anhydride in the formulations of alkyd resins.

Fumaric Acid Esters – Dibutyl and Di (2-Ethylhexyl) fumarates are excellent plasticizers for polyvinyl acetate resins. The fumarates can be copolymerized with styrene, butene, isobutylene, butadiene, acrylates and methacrylates, in the manufacture of lubricants and additives for fuel oil as well as synthetic lubricants. The products of the addition of Fumaric Acid Esters with stearic and oleic acids are good plasticizers for polyvinyl chloride. The epoxy derived from the addition of butadiene with dioctyl fumarate can be used as a plasticizer and / or stabilizer for polyvinyl chloride. Di (2-ethylhexyl) sodium sulfosuccinate, obtained with the addition of sodium bisulfite to Di (2-ethylhexyl) fumarate, is widely used as a wetting agent in the pharmaceutical, plastics and textile industries.

Unsaturated Polyester Resins – In these resins, Fumaric Acid is used in a partial or total substitution of Maleic Anhydride.

Other applications – Fumaric acid is also used in the manufacture of agglutinates for paper, acrylic resins, adhesives, insecticides and fungicides.