| product_name | Isooctyl acrylate |
| CAS_number | 29590-42-9 |
| formula | C11H20O2 |
| molar_mass | 184.28 |
| boiling_point | 216-217°C |
| density | 0.878 g/mL at 25°C |
| refractive_index | 1.439 at 20°C |
| flash_point | 85°C |
| viscosity | 2.5 mPa·s at 20°C |
| vapor_pressure | 0.1 mm Hg at 20°C |
| solubility_in_water | Insoluble |
| appearance | Colorless liquid |
| odor | Mild, ester-like |
| logP | 4.0 |
What is isooctyl acrylate, and what are its primary applications?
Isooctyl acrylate
is a chemical compound prevalent in the field of polymer chemistry. It is a colorless liquid
with a distinct, ester-like aroma and is known for its role as a monomer in the production
of polymers. This compound is an ester of acrylic acid and is widely used due to its
exceptional adhesive properties and flexibility. The primary application of isooctyl
acrylate is in the production of pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs), which are used in a
wide range of products, from label and tape formulations to medical applications such as
adhesive bandages and transdermal drug delivery systems. The versatility of isooctyl
acrylate-based adhesives is attributed to their ability to balance tack, peel, and shear
strengths, which are critical for various applications.
In addition to its use in
adhesives, isooctyl acrylate is also employed in the coatings industry. Its ability to form
flexible films contributes to its role in manufacturing coatings that require a high degree
of flexibility and durability. This characteristic makes it invaluable in industries where
protective or decorative coatings need to withstand mechanical stress and environmental
factors. Furthermore, in the realm of textiles, isooctyl acrylate is utilized to produce
finishes that enhance the water and stain resistance of fabrics, adding value to consumer
goods ranging from apparel to upholstery.
The compound is also found in applications
that necessitate biocompatibility, such as in the medical industry where contact with skin
is frequent. Its characteristics enable formulations that are both functional and safe,
adhering comfortably without causing irritation. Moreover, isooctyl acrylate is utilized as
a co-monomer in the production of acrylic emulsions, which are key components in water-based
paints due to their favorable drying properties and environmental benefits. The encompassing
utility of isooctyl acrylate makes it a staple in industries that require robust, flexible,
and enduring polymer solutions.
How is isooctyl acrylate produced, and what are the
key properties that make it favorable?
Isooctyl acrylate is synthesized through the
esterification of acrylic acid with isooctyl alcohol. The reaction typically involves a
catalyst, often an acidic catalyst, to speed up the process, resulting in the formation of
the ester. The production process is carefully controlled to ensure the purity and
performance of the final product, which is crucial for its applications in sensitive and
industrial applications. Enhanced purification processes, including distillation, are often
employed post-synthesis to ensure that the isooctyl acrylate meets industry standards for
quality and safety.
The key properties that make isooctyl acrylate favorable are
multifaceted. One of its most significant characteristics is its ability to polymerize,
allowing it to form polymers with high adhesive strength and flexibility. These polymers
maintain integrity over a range of temperatures, which is vital for applications subjected
to varying thermal environments. The low glass transition temperature of isooctyl acrylate
contributes to the elasticity and tackiness of adhesives formed from its polymers, providing
an optimum balance of adhesion and cohesion.
Furthermore, isooctyl acrylate possesses
outstanding chemical resistance. It exhibits a great degree of inertness when exposed to a
variety of chemicals, which extends its utility in harsh or reactive environments. This
chemical resilience is particularly beneficial in coatings and sealants, where the ability
to withstand exposure to different substances without degradation is critical. Its water
resistance is yet another attribute, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor
applications where longevity and durability are critical.
Its versatility in
copolymerization is another essential property, enabling it to be mixed with other monomers
to tailor the properties of the resulting polymers. This adaptability is vital in creating
custom adhesives, coatings, and other polymer products that meet specific application needs.
The end-products can thus exhibit modified thermal, mechanical, and adhesive properties to
meet particular requirements, enhancing the applicability of isooctyl acrylate in diverse
industrial sectors.
What are the safety considerations when handling isooctyl
acrylate in industrial applications?
In industrial settings, safety is paramount when
handling isooctyl acrylate, given its chemical nature and potential health impacts.
Understanding and implementing appropriate safety measures are crucial to safeguarding
workers and ensuring a safe working environment. Isooctyl acrylate is classified as a
chemical that can cause skin and eye irritation, and in some instances, respiratory
irritation if proper precautions are not observed. Therefore, establishing a systematic
approach to its handling is imperative.
The first step involves equipping the
workplace with adequate safety gear. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential and
includes gloves, eye protection in the form of goggles or face shields, and clothing that
limits skin exposure. In areas where exposure to vapor concentrations is possible,
respiratory protection should be considered. Facilities should be designed with proper
ventilation systems to minimize the accumulation of vapors, which can be hazardous when
inhaled over extended periods.
Employers must provide comprehensive training to all
personnel involved with isooctyl acrylate. This training should cover the properties of the
chemical, potential hazards, first aid measures, and emergency procedures. Workers should be
aware of the location and proper use of safety showers and eyewash stations, which should be
easily accessible in areas where the chemical is handled. In addition, safety data sheets
(SDS) for isooctyl acrylate should be readily available, providing critical information on
handling, storage, and disposal.
Storage of isooctyl acrylate also requires careful
consideration. The chemical should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from
direct sunlight and incompatible materials such as strong acids, bases, and oxidizing
agents. Containers should be clearly labeled and tightly sealed when not in use to prevent
leaks or accidental spills. In the event of a spill, containment and cleanup procedures
should be in place to manage and mitigate potential health and environmental impacts
swiftly.
It is also crucial to monitor and limit exposure levels through workplace
exposure limits, if applicable. Regular monitoring and maintenance of equipment and
facilities can help prevent leaks and equipment failure, reducing the risk of unintended
exposure. Overall, a combination of appropriate PPE, proper operational protocols,
comprehensive training, and routine safety assessments forms the backbone of safely managing
isooctyl acrylate in industrial environments, ensuring health risks are minimized while
maintaining operational efficiency and safety.
What environmental impacts are
associated with isooctyl acrylate, and how are they managed?
Isooctyl acrylate, like
many industrial chemicals, poses potential environmental impacts if not managed properly.
Its release into the environment, whether through spills, improper disposal, or emissions,
can contribute to pollution and harm ecosystems. Proper management strategies are critical
to mitigating these impacts and ensuring compliance with environmental
regulations.
One of the major concerns with isooctyl acrylate is its potential to
persist in the environment and impact aquatic systems. When discharged into water bodies, it
can pose a threat to aquatic life due to its chemical properties and potential toxicity.
Effective management of industrial effluents, including the use of containment systems and
treatment facilities, is essential to prevent contamination of waterways. Treatment
processes might include physical, chemical, and biological methods to remove or neutralize
isooctyl acrylate before releasing wastewater into the environment.
In terms of air
emissions, isooctyl acrylate can contribute to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) if not
properly contained during storage and use. VOCs are a significant concern as they contribute
to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog, which are harmful to human health and the
environment. Implementing vapor recovery systems and ensuring well-sealed storage containers
can minimize emissions and reduce the environmental footprint.
Proper disposal of
waste containing isooctyl acrylate is another critical aspect of environmental management.
Waste should not be disposed of in conventional landfills where it could leach into the
surrounding soil and water systems. Instead, disposal should align with regulatory guidance,
often involving incineration at licensed facilities equipped to handle organic chemicals
safely.
Additionally, developing and enforcing a comprehensive environmental
management system (EMS) can further safeguard against potential impacts. An EMS involves
regular monitoring of emissions and discharges, compliance with environmental legislation,
and continuous improvement practices. For organizations, it is also essential to stay
informed of any changes in regulations concerning isooctyl acrylate to ensure continued
compliance and proactively address potential environmental risks.
Research and
development also play a role in minimizing the environmental impact of isooctyl acrylate.
Advances in green chemistry can lead to more sustainable production methods, reduced
toxicity formulations, and the development of biodegradable alternatives. This innovation
can alleviate the environmental burdens traditionally associated with isooctyl acrylate and
enhance the sustainability of industrial processes utilizing this compound. By integrating
robust environmental management practices and innovating sustainable solutions, the industry
can minimize the ecological footprint of isooctyl acrylate and contribute towards a
healthier, more sustainable environmental future.
What are the advantages of using
isooctyl acrylate in pressure-sensitive adhesives compared to other monomers?
The
utilization of isooctyl acrylate in pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) is driven by several
distinctive advantages that make it comparable or superior to other monomers. These benefits
primarily stem from its chemical structure and properties, which enhance the performance of
PSAs in various applications. Isooctyl acrylate offers a balanced combination of tack, peel
adhesion, and shear strength, which are critical parameters in assessing adhesive
performance.
One of the principal advantages of isooctyl acrylate is its low glass
transition temperature, which enables the resulting adhesives to remain flexible and tacky
across a broad range of temperatures. This flexibility ensures that the adhesive maintains
good adhesion properties even at lower temperatures where other adhesives might become
brittle and lose effectiveness. Such a characteristic is notably beneficial in applications
exposed to variable temperature conditions, such as outdoor signage and automotive
decals.
The chemical composition of isooctyl acrylate imparts excellent resistance to
water, UV radiation, and aging. It thus provides PSAs with superior durability, making them
suitable for long-term applications where exposure to environmental factors is a concern.
This resistance is crucial in maintaining adhesive integrity in products like weatherproof
labels and outdoor tapes, which require permanence over extended periods under harsh
conditions.
Moreover, isooctyl acrylate allows for the creation of PSAs that
demonstrate a superb balance between peel strength and shear strength. This balance means
the adhesive can bond firmly while also resisting the forces that might cause it to slide or
shear apart. Such properties are particularly important in industrial applications where
both strong adhesion and load-bearing capability are necessary, such as in construction and
assembly line processes.
Another advantage is its compatibility with a wide range of
co-monomers and additives, providing formulators with the flexibility to engineer PSAs that
meet specific requirements, whether it be enhanced heat resistance, increased bonding
strength, or improved clarity and transparency for optical applications. This versatility
enables the development of customized adhesive solutions catered to the unique needs of
different markets, from electronics to healthcare.
The non-toxic nature of isooctyl
acrylate is also worth noting, making it suitable for use in applications that demand high
safety standards, such as medical adhesives applied directly to the skin. This safety
profile allows for a broader scope of usability without the risks associated with some
alternative monomers that might present health concerns.
In summary, isooctyl
acrylate's unique combination of low temperature flexibility, environmental resistance,
balanced adhesive qualities, formulation versatility, and safety make it a preferred monomer
for pressure-sensitive adhesives, offering performance advantages that are pivotal across
various industrial, commercial, and consumer applications.
