clear colorless to very slightly yellow liquid
Versatile reagent used for the synthesis of maleimides, bicyclic pyrrolidines, and co- and terpolymers, as well as for the protection of N-terminal amino acids.
Citraconic anhydride is used as a monomer for specialty unsaturated polyester resins. It is used to prepare bicyclic pyrrolidines, maleimides and co- and terpolymers. It is also used for the protection of N-terminal amino acids. Further, it is involved in the preparation of clothing ping acid and its amide. In addition to this, it is selectively used for the isolation of histidyl peptides.
Reagent for alkalies, alcohols, and amines.
Flammability and Explosibility
Non flammable
Possible contamination is from the acid formed by hydrolysis. If the IR has OH bands, then reflux with Ac2O for 30minutes, evaporate, then distil the residue in a vacuum, otherwise distil in a vacuum. Store in a dry atmosphere. [Vaughan & Andersen J Am Chem Soc 77 6702 1955, Vaughan & Andersen J Org Chem 21 680 1956, Beilstein 17 H 440, 17 I 234, 17 II 448, 17 III/IV 5912, 17/11 V 65.]