Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride (TCPA), CAS 117-08-8, is a highly chlorinated cyclic anhydride used as a reactive intermediate in polymer flame retardant synthesis, providing thermal stability and flame resistance to polyester resins and polyurethanes. It also serves as a precursor for phthalein-based dyes and high-end pigments. Confirm the anhydride assay or content, impurity limits, packaging and documentation needs before ordering; COA, TDS and SDS are available on request.
Tetrachlorophthalic Anhydride CAS 117-08-8
- CAS: 117-08-8
- Synonyms: TCPA; 1,3-Isobenzofurandione, 4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-; Tetrachlorophthalic acid anhydride; Perchlorophthalic anhydride
- Einecs: 204-171-4
- Molecular Formula: C₈Cl₄O₃
- Grade: Industrial grade, content ≥99%
- Package: 200 kg iron drum or 50 kg plastic drum packaging
Product Description
Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride (TCPA)
Appearance: White crystalline or colorless prismatic needles
CAS number: 117-08-8
EINECS number: 204-171-4
Molecular formula: C₈Cl₄O₃
Molecular weight: 285.88
Solubility: Soluble in dioxane; insoluble in ether and cold water; hydrolyzes to tetrachlorophthalic acid in hot water.
Content: ≥99%
Melting point: 254–256 °C
Boiling point: 371 °C
Flash point: 362 °C
Vapor pressure: 0.16 mmHg (145 °C)
Water solubility: 0.8 mg/L (21 °C)
Loss on drying: ≤0.5%
Free chlorine: ≤10 ppm
Iron: ≤10 ppm
Alkali insolubles: ≤0.5%
HCB: ≤0.1%
Usage: Used as a phthalocyanine green pigment and dye intermediate, and as a raw material for alkyd resins.

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
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Q:
Are Tetrachlorophthalic Anhydride and Tetrachloro Phthalic Anhydride the same substance?
A: Yes. Both spellings refer to CAS 117-08-8, formula C8Cl4O3. It is a chlorinated phthalic anhydride and is not phthalic anhydride or tetrachlorophthalic acid. State the CAS number and anhydride form in the purchase specification. -
Q:
What is Tetrachlorophthalic Anhydride used for?
A: It is used as a phthalocyanine green pigment and tonnage dye intermediate, and as a raw material for alkyd resin. The intended pigment, dye or resin process should be stated because impurity levels can affect colour and performance. -
Q:
Which specifications matter when purchasing Tetrachlorophthalic Anhydride?
A: Confirm anhydride assay or content, water or hydrolysis level, acid value, melting range around 254-256 degrees C, colour, insoluble matter and relevant chlorinated aromatic impurities such as free chlorine, iron, alkali-insoluble material and HCB where applicable. -
Q:
What packaging and moisture controls are required?
A: The quoted packaging must protect the material from moisture; common options include 200 kg iron drums or 50 kg plastic drums. Confirm the actual package, net weight, seal condition and destination requirements, and avoid water contact because the anhydride can hydrolyze. -
Q:
What appearance, melting point and solubility should be expected for TCPA?
A: TCPA CAS 117-08-8 is normally a white to almost-white crystalline powder or needles, with a melting range commonly around 254-258 C and a boiling point near 371 C. It is soluble in dioxane, has very low water solubility around 0.8 mg/L at 21 C, and can hydrolyze to tetrachlorophthalic acid in hot water.
Ordering & Documentation
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Documents
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