| product_name | 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate |
| CAS_number | 868-77-9 |
| formula | C6H10O3 |
| molar_mass | 130.14 |
| density | 1.065 g/cm³ |
| boiling_point | 213 °C |
| melting_point | -12 °C |
| solubility | Miscible with water |
| refractive_index | 1.452 |
| viscosity | 7 mPa·s at 25 °C |
| flash_point | 101 °C |
| vapor_pressure | 0.6 mmHg at 20 °C |
| appearance | Colorless liquid |
| odor | Sweet, ester-like |
What is 2-Hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA)?
2-Hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA) is a
versatile chemical compound commonly used in the production of various polymers and
coatings. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor, and it is soluble in water
and most organic solvents. HEMA is known for its excellent adhesion properties and high
reactivity, making it ideal for a wide range of applications in industries such as
adhesives, textiles, and medical materials.
How is HEMA used in adhesives and
sealants?
In adhesives and sealants, HEMA is utilized as a key ingredient to improve
the bonding strength and flexibility of the final product. Due to its excellent adhesion
properties, HEMA can enhance the adhesion of the adhesive to various substrates, including
metals, plastics, and glass. Additionally, HEMA helps improve the overall durability and
resistance to environmental factors, such as moisture and heat, making it a popular choice
in the formulation of high-performance adhesives and sealants.
What are the benefits
of using HEMA in coatings?
HEMA is widely used in coatings due to its exceptional
film-forming properties and ability to enhance the durability and appearance of the coating.
When incorporated into coatings, HEMA provides excellent adhesion to different surfaces, as
well as improved resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and UV radiation. Additionally, HEMA can
improve the flexibility and impact resistance of the coating, ensuring long-lasting
protection and aesthetic appeal.
How is HEMA used in the production of
textiles?
In the textile industry, HEMA is employed in the manufacturing of specialty
fibers and finishes to enhance various properties of the fabric. HEMA can be used as a
crosslinking agent to improve the tensile strength, color fastness, and resistance to
abrasion of textiles. Furthermore, HEMA can be applied as a surface treatment to increase
the water repellency and dyeability of fabrics, making it a valuable ingredient in the
production of high-quality textiles for diverse applications.
What are the key
characteristics of HEMA that make it a preferred choice in the medical industry?
HEMA
is widely utilized in the medical industry for its biocompatibility, low toxicity, and
excellent adhesive properties. Due to its ability to bond strongly to biological tissues,
HEMA is commonly used in medical adhesives, wound care products, and dental materials.
Moreover, HEMA is known for its minimal skin irritation potential and high degree of purity,
making it safe for use in direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Additionally,
HEMA can be easily sterilized and offers excellent control over the curing process, ensuring
reliable and precise results in medical applications.
How does HEMA contribute to the
performance of UV-curable coatings and printing inks?
In UV-curable coatings and
printing inks, HEMA plays a crucial role as a reactive diluent or a crosslinking agent to
enhance the curing properties and performance of the final product. By incorporating HEMA
into UV formulations, manufacturers can achieve faster curing times, improved adhesion, and
higher gloss levels. HEMA also helps reduce viscosity and increase the flow and leveling of
the coating or ink, resulting in smooth and even surface coverage. Additionally, HEMA
enhances the chemical and abrasion resistance of UV-cured coatings, making them suitable for
demanding applications in the automotive, electronics, and packaging industries.
What
are the regulatory considerations for using HEMA in consumer products?
When using
HEMA in consumer products, it is essential to adhere to regulatory guidelines and ensure
compliance with safety standards to protect human health and the environment. HEMA is
classified as a skin and eye irritant, and prolonged exposure to high concentrations may
cause sensitization. Therefore, manufacturers must provide proper handling instructions, use
appropriate personal protective equipment, and implement adequate ventilation systems to
minimize the risks associated with HEMA exposure. Additionally, HEMA should be stored in a
cool, dry place away from incompatible materials to prevent potential hazards and ensure
product quality.
How does HEMA contribute to the sustainability of various
industries?
HEMA offers several sustainability benefits that contribute to reducing
the environmental impact of various industries. As a versatile monomer, HEMA can be used in
the production of eco-friendly coatings, adhesives, and sealants that are free from harmful
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and toxic substances. By incorporating HEMA into
sustainable formulations, manufacturers can improve the energy efficiency of their
processes, reduce waste generation, and minimize the carbon footprint of their products.
Furthermore, HEMA can help extend the service life of coatings and adhesives, leading to
lower maintenance costs and decreased resource consumption over time.
What are the
key considerations for selecting the right grade of HEMA for specific
applications?
When selecting the right grade of HEMA for specific applications, it is
essential to consider several factors, including the desired functionality, reactivity, and
compatibility with other components in the formulation. The purity and quality of HEMA are
critical to ensure consistent performance and reliability in the final product.
Additionally, the viscosity, curing properties, and adhesion strength of HEMA can vary
depending on the grade and processing conditions, so it is essential to test different
grades to determine the optimal formulation for the intended application. By carefully
evaluating these factors and consulting with technical experts, manufacturers can choose the
most suitable grade of HEMA to achieve the desired performance and quality in their
products.
