tereftálico

Ter eftálico is a term used in chemistry to describe compounds derived from terephthalic acid or its esters, known as terephthalates. The central reference point is para-benzenedicarboxylic acid, a benzene ring bearing two carboxyl groups in para positions. Ter eftálicos include terephthalic acid itself and the esters such as dimethyl tereftalate (DMT) and the polyesters formed from terephthalic acid or its esters.

Chemical structure and naming conventions emphasize the para arrangement of the two carboxyl groups on the benzene ring. The adjective ter eftálico is applied to acids, esters and polymers based on this core, and is widely used in polymer chemistry to distinguish these materials from other dicarboxylates.

Production and sources: tereftálico compounds are predominantly derived from terephthalic acid, which is industrially produced by oxidation of para-xylene using air and metal catalysts. Dimethyl tereftalato (DMT) is an intermediate formed by esterification of terephthalic acid. Polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are prepared from DMT or terephthalic acid with glycols (notably ethylene glycol) through transesterification or direct esterification, yielding a widely used polyester.

Applications and significance: ter eftálico polymers, especially PET, are central to packaging, textiles and consumer goods due to their strength, clarity and chemical resistance. Dimethyl tereftalate and related terephthalate esters serve as monomers in polyester synthesis and as solvents or intermediates in chemical manufacturing.

Safety and handling: as with many aromatic carboxylates, ter eftálico compounds can be irritants and require standard laboratory and industrial hygiene practices. Acute hazards are typically related to dust or fumes; consult specific material safety data for each compound.