Terephthalic acid

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Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with the molecular formula C8H6O4, 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).

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