| product_name | 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate |
| CAS_number | 688-84-6 |
| formula | C12H22O2 |
| molar_mass | 198.31 g/mol |
| density | 0.884 g/cm3 |
| boiling_point | 243 °C |
| melting_point | -90 °C |
| refractive_index | 1.434 |
| flash_point | 98 °C |
| viscosity | 5.2 mPa·s |
| vapor_pressure | 0.03 mmHg at 20 °C |
| solubility_in_water | Insoluble |
| appearance | Clear liquid |
| odor | Fruity ester |
What is 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate and what are its main uses in industrial
applications?
2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate (or 2-EHMA) is a versatile chemical compound
that belongs to the family of methacrylate esters. It is commonly used as a raw material in
various industrial applications such as coatings, adhesives, sealants, and plastics. Due to
its ability to improve adhesion, flexibility, and weatherability, 2-EHMA is often employed
in the production of paints, protective coatings, and construction materials.
How
does 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate contribute to the performance of coatings and
adhesives?
One of the key properties of 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate is its excellent
adhesion to various substrates, including metals, plastics, and wood. When incorporated into
coatings and adhesives, 2-EHMA helps enhance the bonding strength between the material and
the surface, resulting in improved durability and resistance to environmental factors such
as UV radiation and moisture. Additionally, 2-EHMA can increase the flexibility of coatings
and adhesives, making them more resistant to cracking and peeling.
What are the
benefits of using 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate in sealant formulations?
2-EHMA is known
for its compatibility with a wide range of other monomers, which makes it an ideal choice
for formulating high-performance sealants. By incorporating 2-EHMA into sealant
formulations, manufacturers can achieve superior adhesion to various substrates, excellent
weatherability, and improved resistance to water and chemicals. Additionally, 2-EHMA can
help enhance the flexibility and elongation properties of sealants, making them more
suitable for dynamic joint movements.
How does 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate impact the
properties of plastic materials?
When used as a monomer in the production of
plastics, 2-EHMA can significantly enhance the toughness, impact resistance, and chemical
resistance of the final product. By copolymerizing with other monomers, such as methyl
methacrylate or styrene, 2-EHMA can improve the processability and mechanical properties of
plastics, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including automotive parts,
electronic components, and consumer goods.
What are the key factors to consider when
selecting 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate for a specific application?
When choosing
2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate for a particular application, it is essential to consider several
factors, such as the desired properties of the final product, the compatibility of 2-EHMA
with other monomers and additives, the processing conditions, and the environmental and
safety regulations. By taking into account these aspects, manufacturers can optimize the
performance of their formulations and achieve the desired balance between adhesion,
flexibility, weatherability, and chemical resistance.
How can 2-Ethylhexyl
methacrylate be incorporated into formulations effectively?
2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate
can be easily incorporated into formulations by copolymerizing it with other monomers using
various polymerization techniques, such as emulsion, solution, or bulk polymerization. The
selection of the appropriate solvent, initiator, and reaction conditions is crucial to
ensure the successful synthesis of polymers with the desired properties. Additionally,
manufacturers can adjust the concentration of 2-EHMA in the formulation to fine-tune the
performance of the final product.
What are some common challenges associated with
using 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate in industrial applications?
One of the challenges of
using 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate in industrial applications is its low molecular weight,
which can lead to volatility and potential health and safety risks during processing. To
address this issue, manufacturers should handle 2-EHMA with care, ensuring proper
ventilation and personal protective equipment. Additionally, the storage and transportation
of 2-EHMA should comply with regulations to prevent exposure and minimize the risk of
accidents.
How does 2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate compare to other methacrylate esters in
terms of performance and cost?
2-Ethylhexyl methacrylate offers a unique combination
of properties that make it a preferred choice for many applications, including coatings,
adhesives, sealants, and plastics. Compared to other methacrylate esters, such as methyl
methacrylate or butyl acrylate, 2-EHMA provides excellent adhesion, flexibility, and
weatherability at a competitive cost. By selecting 2-EHMA for their formulations,
manufacturers can achieve high-performance products without compromising on quality or
price.
What are the current trends and future outlook for the use of 2-Ethylhexyl
methacrylate in the chemical industry?
In recent years, the demand for 2-Ethylhexyl
methacrylate has been steadily increasing due to the growing applications in coatings,
adhesives, sealants, and plastics. As industries continue to prioritize sustainability,
manufacturers are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chemicals, and
2-EHMA's low VOC emissions and compatibility with water-based formulations make it an
attractive option. Moving forward, the use of 2-EHMA is expected to expand further as
companies seek to develop innovative products with enhanced performance and reduced
environmental impact.
