The maleic anhydride is produced by vapor fixed bed oxidation from benzene. It's molecular weight, 98 molecular formula, C4H2O3. Malete anhydride is white needle crystalloid with pungent odor. It sublimes. M.P,52. 80;B.P,202.It is soluble in acetone, acetic ether benzene, toluene, etc. It may be acid with water, and it maybe fumaric acid with high temperature.