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

Dictionary Entries Near maleic anhydride

Cite this Entry

“Maleic anhydride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maleic%20anhydride. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

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