2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalic acid; CAS No.: 2136-79-0;2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalic acid. PROPERTIES: 2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalic acid is a highly chlorinated aromatic dicarboxylic acid with molecular formula C8H2Cl4O4. It typically exists as a white crystalline powder with a melting point of approximately 220-225 C. The compound has limited water solubility but dissolves in basic aqueous solutions. It exhibits moderate thermal stability but may decompose when exposed to high temperatures or strong bases, releasing toxic chlorine-containing fumes. Proper storage involves keeping it in tightly sealed containers below 30 C, protected from moisture and heat. APPLICATIONS: In industrial chemistry, this compound serves as a monomer for producing chlorinated polyesters and vinyl esters, where its tetrachlorinated aromatic ring provides enhanced flame retardancy and chemical resistance (Journal of Applied Polymer Science). In pharmaceutical research, 2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalic acid contributes to the synthesis of antimicrobial agents where the highly chlorinated aromatic scaffold enhances binding to microbial targets (Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy). The dicarboxylic acid functionality enables formation of coordination complexes with metal ions, useful in developing metal-organic frameworks for gas storage or catalysis applications (Chemistry of Materials).