Acrylates, High-Purity Solvents

Hydroxypropyl Acrylate (HPA)

Hydroxypropyl Acrylate (HPA), identified by CAS number 25584-83-2, is a versatile monofunctional monomer characterized by its dual-functional nature, containing both a polymerizable vinyl group and a reactive multifunctional hydroxyl group. This clear, colorless liquid serves as a fundamental building block in the synthesis of thermosetting acrylic resins and various copolymer systems. Its chemical structure consists of an ester linkage between acrylic acid and propylene glycol, resulting in a molecule that imparts hydrophilicity, improves adhesion, and facilitates subsequent cross-linking reactions. HPA is highly valued in the chemical industry for its ability to provide reactive sites for isocyanates, melamines, and anhydrides. Due to its low volatility and high reactivity, it is effectively utilized in ultraviolet light and electron beam curing applications. While offering excellent performance characteristics, it requires careful handling due to its corrosive nature and potential for spontaneous polymerization if not properly stabilized with inhibitors like hydroquinone monomethyl ether chemical compound.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Dual functionality allows for both addition polymerization and condensation cross-linking, providing significant formulation flexibility for resin chemists and industrial material manufacturers.
Superior wetting properties and low viscosity facilitate easy incorporation into aqueous or solvent-based systems, enhancing the flow and leveling of finished coatings.
The pendant hydroxyl group significantly improves the adhesion of polymers to metallic and polar substrates, ensuring long-term durability in harsh environments.
Exhibits excellent weatherability and UV resistance, making it an ideal choice for outdoor coatings that must maintain color and structural integrity.
High chemical reactivity ensures rapid curing cycles in industrial processes, improving throughput for manufacturing operations involving thermoset plastics or radiation-cured inks.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Formula: C6H10O3 with a molecular weight of approximately 130.14 g/mol, representing a pure monomer grade for high-performance chemical synthesis and polymerization.
Boiling point is approximately 77 degrees Celsius at 5 mmHg, indicating low volatility at standard conditions which minimizes VOC emissions during application.
Flash point is recorded at 99 degrees Celsius using the closed cup method, requiring specific storage protocols to ensure fire safety and stability.
Solubility profile includes high miscibility with water and common organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, and aliphatic hydrocarbons, allowing for diverse formulation strategies.
Standard purity levels typically exceed 97 percent, with moisture content strictly controlled below 0.2 percent to prevent premature reaction or degradation of the monomer.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Used extensively in the manufacture of automotive topcoats and industrial finishes where high gloss, scratch resistance, and chemical durability are primary performance requirements.
Serves as a critical reactive diluent in UV-curable inks and coatings, providing the necessary viscosity reduction while participating in the polymerization process.
Applied in the production of pressure-sensitive adhesives to improve shear strength and cohesive properties while maintaining the necessary tack for bonding various surfaces.
Utilized in textile finishing agents and leather treatment chemicals to impart softness, water resistance, and improved dye fastness to natural and synthetic fibers.
Employed in the synthesis of specialty thermosetting resins for glass fiber reinforcement and electronic encapsulation where thermal stability and moisture resistance are vital.