Topic summary
Terephthalic acid
Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with the molecular formulaC8H6O4, a dicarboxylic acid with a benzene core. The two acids are para to each other; the other possible constitutional isomers are phthalic acid (ortho) and isophthalic acid (meta). This white solid is a commodity chemical, used principally as a precursor to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a polyester used to make clothing and plastic bottles. Several million tons are produced annually.
The common name is derived from the turpentine-producing tree Pistacia terebinthus and phthalic acid.
Terephthalic acid is also used in the production of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).