Terephthalic acid Terephthalic acid Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with formula CH(COH). This white solid is a commodity chemical, used principally as a precursor to the polyester PET, used to make clothing and plastic bottles. Several million tonnes are produced annually. The common name is derived from the turpentine-producing tree "Pistacia terebinthus" and phthalic acid. Terephthalic acid was first isolated (from turpentine) by the French chemist Amédée Cailliot (1805–1884) in 1846. Terephthalic acid became industrially important after World War II. Terephthalic acid was produced by oxidation of "p"-xylene with dilute nitric acid. Air oxidation of "p"-xylene gives "p"-toluic acid, which resists
Methanesulfonic acid is formed. Methanesulfonic acid is considered a particularly suitable supporting electrolyte for electrochemical applications, where it stands as an environmentally friendly alternative to other acid electrolytes used in plating processes. Methanesulfonic acid is also the electrolyte of choice in zinc-cerium (see cerium(III) methanesulfonate) and lead-acid (methanesulfonate) flow batteries. Methanesulfonic acid is also a primary ingredient in rust and scale removers. It is used to clean off surface rust from ceramic, tiles and porcelain which are usually susceptible to acid attack. Methanesulfonic acid Methanesulfonic acid (MsOH) is a colorless liquid with the chemical formula CHSOH. It is the simplest of the