| product_name | Ethyl acrylate |
| CAS_number | 140-88-5 |
| formula | C5H8O2 |
| molar_mass | 100.12 |
| density | 0.923 g/cm³ |
| boiling_point | 99 °C |
| melting_point | -71 °C |
| solubility_in_water | 1.5 g/L |
| vapor_pressure | 32 mmHg at 20 °C |
| flash_point | -2 °C |
| autoignition_temperature | 345 °C |
| refractive_index | 1.401 |
| viscosity | 0.39 cP at 20 °C |
| surface_tension | 27.37 dyn/cm at 25 °C |
| heat_capacity | 176.5 J/mol·K |
What is ethyl acrylate and what are its primary uses?
Ethyl acrylate is a colorless liquid chemical compound with the formula C5H8O2. It belongs to the class of acrylates, which are esters derived from acrylic acid. This versatile compound is prominently used in the production of polymers and copolymers which form the building blocks for various products across multiple industries. A primary application for ethyl acrylate is in the creation of resins, coatings, and adhesives. These materials benefit from the compound's properties, such as its ability to form hard, durable films and its compatibility with various other chemicals, which enhances the functionality and performance of the resultant products. Ethyl acrylate is also used in the textile and leather industries as a finishing agent due to its ability to impart water-resistant characteristics and improve the overall texture and feel of materials. Additionally, this compound is employed in the plastics industry to enhance the impact resistance and strength of various plastic products.
Another significant use of ethyl acrylate is in the field of paints and varnishes. Here, it acts as an essential ingredient in forming binders that help improve paint adhesion to surfaces, enhance weatherability, and promote color retention over time. The versatility of ethyl acrylate also extends to the paper industry, where it is utilized in coatings that enhance the gloss and printability of paper products. Moreover, its use in the manufacture of superabsorbent polymers demonstrates its importance in personal care products, such as diapers and hygiene items, where its absorption capacity and gel formation ability provide improved performance. Despite being highly useful, it is crucial to handle ethyl acrylate with care due to its volatile and potentially hazardous nature. Proper storage and adherence to safety guidelines are necessary to minimize risks associated with its use.
How is ethyl acrylate stored and handled safely in an industrial setting?
Ensuring the safe storage and handling of ethyl acrylate in an industrial setting is crucial due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards. Proper practices begin with understanding the physical and chemical properties of ethyl acrylate. In terms of storage, ethyl acrylate should be kept in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and sources of heat or ignition. It's essential to store this compound in tightly closed containers made from materials that can withstand its corrosive nature. Containers should be labeled clearly to avoid confusion and handled by trained personnel familiar with the chemical properties and handling procedures of ethyl acrylate.
When it comes to handling ethyl acrylate, having a thorough risk assessment and safety plan in place is imperative. Implementing the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and respirators helps to protect workers from exposure. Workers should be trained in emergency response procedures for any potential spills or exposure incidents. Adequate ventilation systems are necessary to prevent the accumulation of vapors that could lead to respiratory issues or create flammable conditions. Proper grounding and bonding practices should be observed during the transfer of ethyl acrylate to prevent static discharge, which could ignite vapors.
Having spill containment and control measures is crucial in case of accidental leaks or spills. Absorbent materials and neutralizing agents should be readily available to manage such incidents quickly and effectively. Additionally, monitoring equipment, such as gas detectors, can be installed to alert personnel to dangerous concentrations of ethyl acrylate fumes. Regular inspections and maintenance of storage facilities and equipment help ensure that everything remains in optimal working condition and reduce the likelihood of accidents due to equipment failure. Finally, staying informed about regulatory requirements and having safety data sheets (SDS) accessible at all times ensure compliance and provide important guidance on safe practices.
What are the potential health effects of exposure to ethyl acrylate?
Exposure to ethyl acrylate can lead to various health effects, particularly affecting the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. One of the immediate concerns when handling ethyl acrylate is its potential to cause skin irritation. Direct contact with the liquid can result in redness, itching, and in severe cases, blistering. Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to dermatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the skin. Workers dealing with this chemical should use protective clothing and gloves to minimize skin contact and reduce the risk of adverse skin reactions.
The eyes are also particularly susceptible to the effects of ethyl acrylate. When exposed to vapors or liquid splashes, individuals may experience redness, irritation, and a burning sensation. Such exposure can result in varying degrees of eye damage, which is why eye protection, such as safety goggles or face shields, is crucial when working with or near ethyl acrylate. Should eye exposure occur, it is important to rinse the eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention to prevent further complications.
Respiratory effects are another significant concern, as inhaling ethyl acrylate vapors can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract. This may manifest as coughing, difficulty breathing, and throat discomfort. In some cases, exposure may lead to more severe respiratory conditions, including chemical pneumonitis, particularly if large amounts are inhaled. To mitigate this risk, adequate ventilation and the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment are vital in settings where ethyl acrylate vapors may be present.
In addition to immediate health effects, potential long-term effects of ethyl acrylate exposure are a subject of study. Although some animal studies have indicated the possibility of carcinogenic effects, the relevance to human health is still debated and requires further research. It emphasizes the need for continued adherence to occupational exposure limits and precautionary measures to minimize any risks associated with long-term exposure. Understanding these potential health effects reinforces the importance of implementing comprehensive safety protocols and ensuring that all personnel receive proper training and access to safety information to protect their health while handling ethyl acrylate.
How is ethyl acrylate used in the production of adhesives and coatings?
Ethyl acrylate plays a pivotal role in the production of adhesives and coatings due to its excellent film-forming properties, adhesion capabilities, and versatility in polymer formulations. In adhesives, ethyl acrylate is commonly polymerized with other monomers to create copolymers that exhibit a balance of flexibility, strength, and adhesion. These copolymers can be engineered to produce pressure-sensitive adhesives, which are widely used in applications such as tapes, labels, and stickers. The adhesive formulations utilizing ethyl acrylate can be tailored to adhere to various substrates, including paper, plastic, metal, and glass, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse industrial requirements.
The use of ethyl acrylate in coatings is similarly driven by its ability to enhance the physical and chemical properties of the resultant polymer films. Coatings made from ethyl acrylate-based polymers are valued for their durability, resistance to environmental factors, and ability to form clear, smooth films. Such properties make these coatings suitable for various applications, including automotive finishes, protective coatings for wood and metal, and decorative paints. Ethyl acrylate enables the development of waterborne coatings, which are more environmentally friendly as they decrease the reliance on organic solvents, thereby reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
In both adhesives and coatings, ethyl acrylate contributes to improved flexibility, impact resistance, and resistance to UV degradation. It acts as a comonomer in formulations that require a specific balance of hardness and elasticity, making it ideal for applications requiring coatings that can withstand mechanical stress while maintaining their appearance and protective qualities. The crosslinking potential of ethyl acrylate polymers also contributes to the development of thermoset coatings, which are known for their superior chemical resistance and long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
Formulators can adjust the ratio of ethyl acrylate in copolymer systems to fine-tune the adhesive or coating properties to meet specific application demands. Research and innovation in polymer chemistry continue to explore new combinations involving ethyl acrylate to expand its range of applications, enhance sustainability by developing bio-based alternatives, and improve performance in challenging conditions. Its pivotal role in the adhesives and coatings industries underscores the ongoing importance of ethyl acrylate in producing high-performance materials that meet the evolving needs of various sectors.
How does ethyl acrylate contribute to the properties of superabsorbent polymers?
Ethyl acrylate is a significant component in the production of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), contributing to their unique absorbency and gel formation characteristics. These polymers are engineered to absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their mass, making them indispensable in products requiring excellent moisture management, such as diapers, adult incontinence products, and certain types of agricultural soil conditioners. The role of ethyl acrylate in SAP formulation is integral to achieving the desired absorbency and structural properties.
The absorbency properties of SAPs stem from their chemical structure, where ethyl acrylate acts as a comonomer with acrylic acid or other monomers. The resultant copolymer networks have hydrophilic groups that interact with water molecules, allowing the polymer to swell considerably. This ability to absorb water effectively is due to the crosslinked polymer matrix that entraps water within its structure, preventing it from leaking or evaporating quickly. Ethyl acrylate contributes to balancing the hydrophilic-hydrophobic interactions in the polymer, thereby enhancing the absorption capacity and retention capability.
Moreover, the incorporation of ethyl acrylate into the polymer matrix imparts certain mechanical and structural properties that are critical for the functional performance of SAPs. The presence of ethyl acrylate in the polymer helps modulate the elasticity and structural integrity of the swollen gel, which is crucial for preventing breakdown under mechanical stress. This property is particularly important in applications like diapers and hygiene products, where the SAPs are subjected to varying levels of pressure and activity.
Ethyl acrylate also plays a role in controlling the rate of absorption and the gel strength. By adjusting the proportion of ethyl acrylate in the copolymer formulation, manufacturers can fine-tune the resultant properties to suit specific applications. For instance, applications requiring rapid absorption might utilize a different ratio of ethyl acrylate than those prioritizing maximum liquid retention over extended periods.
In conclusion, ethyl acrylate enhances the versatility and functionality of superabsorbent polymers, making them highly effective components in products across various industries. By contributing to the structural and absorptive properties, it ensures that SAPs meet the demanding performance standards required in everyday applications, reinforcing the essential role of ethyl acrylate in modern material science.