2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate stands out as a core material in the world of specialty chemicals, often referred to by its abbreviation, 2-EHMA. Used in polymer and resin production, this chemical offers adaptability that benefits coatings, adhesives, and plastics manufacturing. With its molecular formula of C12H22O2, 2-EHMA features a methacrylate group attached to a branched C8 alcohol, 2-ethylhexanol, making it a reliable choice. This structure enables unique properties and contributes to the broad utility of the material. The Chemical Abstract Service registry number (CAS No.) for 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate is 688-84-6, allowing for easy identification among raw materials suppliers. On international shipments, it uses the HS Code 29161400 for proper documentation and customs processing.
Recognizable by its low-viscosity liquid state at room temperature, 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate often appears as a clear and colorless liquid but can show a slight yellow tint in certain storage conditions. The density typically ranges from 0.885 to 0.895 g/cm³ at 20°C. This characteristic makes it less dense than water, contributing to its handling and storage requirements. Boiling point lands close to 218°C, while the melting point sits near -70°C, so it remains liquid under standard operating environments. With a molecular weight of about 198.31 g/mol, it dissolves in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, acetone, and other acrylate monomers, but water solubility stays negligible. This trait supports its behavior in reaction mixtures, allowing it to participate without significant loss or evaporation. Viscosity and surface tension hover within manageable ranges, offering smooth processing in both small- and large-scale settings.
Most users encounter 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate as a liquid, sold in drums or intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) lined for chemical safety. In unusual low-temperature conditions, it can form semi-solid crystals or flakes, but such physical states remain rare during distribution. Crystalline forms do not usually enter the market, as downstream industries use the liquid directly to polymerize or as an ingredient. For laboratories or specialty applications, the material can relocate to glassware in smaller volumes, sometimes prepared as a solution mixed with other raw materials or stabilizers to prevent premature polymerization. Storage should always keep the chemical cool and away from ultraviolet light or heat sources, as 2-EHMA can polymerize if left exposed or mixed with initiators. Because it releases flammable vapors, grounded containers and chemical-resistant safety gear take priority whenever transferring or processing the monomer.
Coatings, paints, adhesives, and sealants manufacturers seek 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate for its ability to enhance product flexibility and chemical resistance. The branched side chain in its structure delivers low glass transition temperature (Tg), improving the softness and toughness of polymers. High-performance plastics often depend on this chemical for balancing durability with bending stress or temperature cycling, especially in outdoor uses. In adhesives, it helps produce strong, long-lasting bonds on difficult surfaces, including plastics and metals exposed to heat or moisture. Automotive coatings, construction materials, and specialty labels benefit from its input, as formulas crafted with 2-EHMA display less brittleness and greater resistance to weathering. In laboratory settings, it also enters emulsion polymerization as a co-monomer, experimenting with new blends for research or product development.
2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate deserves respect as a workplace chemical, given its low but present health hazards. Inhalation or skin contact creates irritation risks, and the liquid may cause redness or dryness on exposed skin. Direct eye exposure leads to irritation or damage, making eye protection a requirement. Inhalation of vapor, especially in poorly ventilated spaces, has resulted in headaches or dizziness for operators. Uncontrolled polymerization under heat or UV light creates exothermic reactions and pressure risks, so stabilization with hydroquinone or other inhibitors is common. According to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), it receives classifications for skin and eye irritation (GHS07, exclamation mark) but does not meet criteria for high-level acute toxicity. Long-term or chronic exposure data remains limited, though studies on similar methacrylate esters guide general precautions.
Upon delivery, 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate travels in corrosion-resistant containers, usually metal or plastic drums lined to block air and light. Temperature-controlled storage slows down unwanted polymerization, and built-in inhibitors minimize hazards. The liquid remains stable inside sealed packages below 30°C, far from any sources of ignition or strong oxidizers. Transportation regulations follow the United Nations classification UN 1993 (Flammable Liquids, n.o.s.), and placards or paperwork must reflect this for safe shipment. The HS Code 29161400 applies to customs processing, and labeling requirements in regions like the EU (REACH), US (TSCA), Korea, and China require regular updates to ensure compliance. Workers carry gloves, goggles, and respirators when handling open containers, and emergency procedures—like eyewash stations and spill cleanup protocol—remain mandatory in all responsible facilities.
As a source material, 2-Ethylhexyl Methacrylate appears frequently in supplier catalogs. Selection should always start with purity, inhibitor content, and certificate of analysis to ensure suitability for downstream blending or polymerization. Purchasing in volumes that match projected factory needs helps avoid storage problems and waning inhibitor effectiveness. In formulation, users favor blends with methyl methacrylate or butyl acrylate to hit final product targets, be that flexibility, weather resistance, or chemical bonding. Mixing tanks, transfer lines, and all accompanying hardware must withstand organic solvents, and monitoring for contaminant buildup or vapor release stays essential. Communication with the raw material vendor, regular sampling, and analytical checks (GC, NMR) all decrease the risk of off-specification product entering the line. Getting the most from this material means connecting safe handling with precision in process control, experience in polymer chemistry, and robust documentation to satisfy auditors and downstream customers alike.
