maleic anhydride

noun

: a caustic crystalline cyclic anhydride C₄H₂O₃ used especially in making resins

Examples of maleic anhydride in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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Water caused increased pressure and temperature in the tank, and a pressure-relief valve lifted, releasing 1,800 pounds of maleic anhydride vapors into the air. —

Mark Schleifstein, NOLA.com, 3 Jan. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of maleic anhydride was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Maleic anhydride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maleic%20anhydride. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.

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