Maleic anhydride is a cyclic dicarboxylic anhydride that is the cyclic anhydride of maleic acid. It has a role as an allergen. It is a cyclic dicarboxylic anhydride and a member of furans. Maleic anhydride is used in the formulation of resins.
Maleic anhydride is a chemical intermediate that can be used in several applications in nearly every field of industrial chemistry. The main end use is related to the production of unsaturated polyester resins.