Resumen
Carboxylic acids are present in a wide range of industrial processes, including the production of nylon, biodegradable plastics, soaps and detergents, and pharmaceuticals. Low molecular weight carboxylic acids appear frequently in a number of industrially important waste streams, from which they must be recovered, preventing pollution and generating a profit. On the other hand, high molecular weight carboxylic acids (i.e. fatty acids) derived from fats and oils, are used in the production of coverings, surfactants, plastics, and cleaning products. Dicarboxylic acids are also industrially important compounds.