Acrylates, High-Purity Solvents

Methyl Methacrylate (MMA)

Methyl methacrylate is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic acrid odor. This organic compound, identified by the formula CH2=C(CH3)COOCH3, serves as the essential monomer for poly(methyl methacrylate) plastics. As an unsaturated ester, MMA is characterized by its reactive double bond and ester functional group, facilitating rapid polymerization under heat, light, or peroxide initiation. It is slightly soluble in water but highly miscible with most organic solvents like ethanol and diethyl ether. Naturally occurring in some plants, commercially produced MMA typically involves the acetone cyanohydrin process or the oxidation of isobutylene. The substance exhibits a high vapor pressure and low flash point, making it highly flammable and necessitating stringent handling protocols. Its chemical nature permits the synthesis of diverse copolymers, enhancing durability and clarity in final products. MMA’s unique molecular structure provides a balance of rigidity and weather resistance, establishing it as a foundational building block supporting countless applications.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Exceptional optical clarity and high light transmission properties in its polymerized state, surpassing many glass alternatives.
Outstanding resistance to ultraviolet radiation and weathering, ensuring long-term color stability and structural integrity outdoors.
High mechanical strength and impact resistance, providing a lightweight yet durable solution for demanding structural applications.
Remarkable chemical versatility, allowing for easy copolymerization with other monomers to tailor specific physical or chemical properties.
Thermal stability across a broad temperature range, maintaining dimensional accuracy and preventing degradation during high-temperature processing.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular weight is 100.12 g/mol, with a density of 0.944 g/cm3 at 20 degrees Celsius.
Boiling point is approximately 100.5 degrees Celsius, while the freezing point sits at -48 degrees Celsius.
Flash point is 10 degrees Celsius (Tag Closed Cup), classifying the liquid as a highly flammable substance.
Vapor pressure is measured at 38.5 hPa at 20 degrees Celsius, indicating high volatility and evaporation rates.
Refractive index of 1.414 ensures predictable light path manipulation when formulated into optical grade polymers and resins.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Primary feedstock for producing Poly(methyl methacrylate) acrylic sheets, used in signage, skylights, and automotive glazing components.
Essential component in the manufacture of surface coatings and emulsion polymers for architectural and industrial paint systems.
Critical ingredient in dental prosthetics and bone cements, utilized for its biocompatibility and high strength in medical environments.
Used in the production of impact modifiers and processing aids for polyvinyl chloride, enhancing material toughness and flow.
Key monomer for high-performance adhesives and sealants, providing strong bonding capabilities across diverse metal and plastic substrates.