Dimetyylitereftalaatti

Dimetyylitereftalaatti, often abbreviated as DMT, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C10H10O4. It is the dimethyl ester of terephthalic acid. DMT is a colorless solid at room temperature and is known for its ester-like odor. It is sparingly soluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and diethyl ether.

Industrially, DMT is primarily used as a precursor in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PET is a versatile polymer widely employed in the manufacturing of plastic bottles, food packaging, synthetic fibers (polyester), and films. The process of converting DMT to PET involves a transesterification reaction with ethylene glycol. While direct esterification of terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol is also a common route for PET production, DMT offers certain advantages in specific manufacturing processes, particularly those developed earlier.

Beyond its major application in PET synthesis, DMT has found some use as a plasticizer, though this is a less significant application. It can also serve as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic chemicals. Its relatively low toxicity and ease of handling contribute to its widespread industrial use. DMT is typically produced through the esterification of terephthalic acid with methanol.