Primarily used as the raw material for polyester fibres, PTA (Purified Teraphthalic Acid) is a pure white powder produced from the refining of crude oil. Initially isolated in 1846 and gaining considerable commercial appeal after 1920, PTA has grown rapidly as the textile industry has boomed worldwide.

Manufactured by oxidation of p-xylene, PTA characteristics include excellent thermal resistance, electric insulation and mechanical strength, as well as delivering great protection against water and wear and tear. Consequently, PTA is a popular choice across industrial applications including paints, industrial yarns and bottles.