I-Decyl Methacrylate stands out as an ester derivative of methacrylic acid. This chemical carries the molecular formula C13H24O2 and a molecular weight of about 212.33 g/mol. Anyone familiar with synthetic polymers or specialty coatings sees this material crop up more than once in product specs. Most chemical suppliers describe it as a clear, colorless or slightly yellowish liquid, sometimes found in bulk drums or tanks.
Understanding it isn’t about memorizing a list of characteristics. My own work in a research lab involved evaluating chemicals not just on paper, but also by observing how they function in real-world conditions. I-Decyl Methacrylate belongs in the class of methacrylate esters with a high alkyl chain, giving it different properties compared to short-chain relatives like methyl or ethyl methacrylates. This extended chain increases hydrophobicity and flexibility when used as a co-monomer in acrylic polymers. You’re probably not going to find this on the shelf at your local hardware store, but it’s no stranger in manufacturing facilities pushing to develop stronger, more flexible materials.
If you pour it out of a drum, you'll see a liquid with a density close to 0.88 g/cm3 at 20°C. The boiling point is high—about 160-180°C at low pressure—so it handles moderate processing heat. The molecule has a long branching decyl group and the classic methacrylate vinyl group, which means it can graft onto a polymer backbone and change mechanical behavior. I-Decyl Methacrylate won’t dissolve in water. It blends better with many organic solvents, and it usually shows up as a liquid, although improper storage at cold temperatures might make it a little cloudy or viscous.
There have been cases of this chemical arriving as a light waxy solid, especially in unheated storage during winter, so folks in shipping always double-check their containers. The flash point sits above 100°C, and it possesses a mild odor similar to other esters. If you’re working with it in an open space, ventilation matters because inhaling the vapor could irritate your nose and throat.
Most of the time, I-Decyl Methacrylate serves as a raw material in making specialty polymers. In industries like lubricants, adhesives, automotive coatings, or fiber treatments, formulators rely on its hydrophobic tail to change viscosity or improve weather resistance. Think of it as an ingredient that allows products to repel water or remain flexible under stress.
It ships as a liquid—sometimes stabilized with inhibitors to stop early polymerization. Unlike powders or flakes, which are easier to spill and inhale, the liquid form gives more control and less dust. There are no pearls, crystals, or granules because the molecule prefers its oily state. It stores best in tight, cool containers, away from sunlight and sources of ignition. I’ve seen labs using stainless steel vessels and nitrogen blankets to control accidental polymerization, especially if storing large volumes.
While not considered as dangerous as more volatile methacrylates, I-Decyl Methacrylate isn’t risk-free. Handling larger amounts demands chemical goggles, gloves, and proper protective gear because spills can cause skin and eye irritation. If it gets on your skin, it feels oily and sticky—best practice says to reach for soap and water, not solvents. According to the Safety Data Sheets from top manufacturers, this chemical doesn’t meet the threshold for being labeled highly toxic. Even so, inhaling the fumes or allowing the product to linger on your hands should be avoided.
The HS Code, according to most customs registries, runs in the region of 29161400 or similar, fitting into the broader class of acyclic esters and their derivatives. While this means easier international trade for manufacturers, it also brings a duty to track safe storage and correct transport labels. As regulations focus more on the environmental persistence of specialty chemicals, engineers need to stay current on guidance from organizations like the European Chemicals Agency. Spills shouldn’t just get washed into drains. Collect and dispose of any residue according to hazardous waste laws.
One ongoing challenge is its sourcing, as the precursor alcohols and acids often come from petrochemical stocks. In labs I’ve worked in, the question comes up: Could greener routes supply I-Decyl Methacrylate that work for both safety and sustainability? Researchers have started experimenting with bio-based feedstocks like plant-derived decanol or methacrylic acid, which helps cut the carbon footprint when scaled.
Another real concern comes from unintentional polymerization in lines or storage tanks, leading to costly shutdowns. On industrial scales, the right choice in inhibitors and routine monitoring of storage temperatures makes a big difference. In my own experience working with polymer pilot plants, installing inline temperature and pressure sensors helps detect the runaway exothermic reactions before they cause damage.
Workers on the production floor benefit from clear labeling and reliable emergency procedures. Informing everyone about the possible hazards—irritant effects, flammability, and the need for chemical-resistant gloves—matters more than just handing out a safety sheet. Regular drills and accessible first-aid kits create safer environments.
Product specifications usually require high purity (often ≥98%) to avoid unwanted reactions or discolored final products. Lab testing includes gas chromatography and spectroscopic analysis to spot residual solvents or byproducts. The presence of acid or alcohol impurities can limit how well the methacrylate works in specialty polymers, especially in clear coatings and optical-grade plastics where color and clarity matter most.
Whether used in lubricants to improve flow at low temperatures or added to paint formulas to increase long-term weather resistance, I-Decyl Methacrylate carves out a spot in modern chemical manufacturing. Its unique blend of properties ties back to its long molecular structure, making it especially useful where both flexibility and water repellency are valued. Anyone handling raw materials in a manufacturing setting benefits by understanding the full spectrum of product characteristics—from the molecular formula, density, boiling point, and solution behavior, to the more practical realities of safe and responsible use.
