More specifically, maleic anhydride may be dissolved in the alcohol either at room temperature or by heating at an elevated temperature, e.g. 50??? C. to 60??? C. Addition of the appropriate base, i.e. alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hydroxide such as sodium or potassium hydroxide or magnesium barium, strontium or calcium hydroxide to a pH of about 7 to 9, neutralizes the acid portion of the