| product_name | Ethyl acrylate |
| CAS_number | 140-88-5 |
| formula | C5H8O2 |
| molar_mass | 100.12 |
| density | 0.923 g/cm³ |
| boiling_point | 99 °C |
| melting_point | -71 °C |
| solubility_in_water | 1.5 g/L |
| vapor_pressure | 32 mmHg at 20 °C |
| flash_point | -2 °C |
| autoignition_temperature | 345 °C |
| refractive_index | 1.401 |
| viscosity | 0.39 cP at 20 °C |
| surface_tension | 27.37 dyn/cm at 25 °C |
| heat_capacity | 176.5 J/mol·K |
What is ethyl acrylate and what are its primary uses?
Ethyl acrylate is a colorless
liquid chemical compound with the formula C5H8O2. It belongs to the class of acrylates,
which are esters derived from acrylic acid. This versatile compound is prominently used in
the production of polymers and copolymers which form the building blocks for various
products across multiple industries. A primary application for ethyl acrylate is in the
creation of resins, coatings, and adhesives. These materials benefit from the compound's
properties, such as its ability to form hard, durable films and its compatibility with
various other chemicals, which enhances the functionality and performance of the resultant
products. Ethyl acrylate is also used in the textile and leather industries as a finishing
agent due to its ability to impart water-resistant characteristics and improve the overall
texture and feel of materials. Additionally, this compound is employed in the plastics
industry to enhance the impact resistance and strength of various plastic
products.
Another significant use of ethyl acrylate is in the field of paints and
varnishes. Here, it acts as an essential ingredient in forming binders that help improve
paint adhesion to surfaces, enhance weatherability, and promote color retention over time.
The versatility of ethyl acrylate also extends to the paper industry, where it is utilized
in coatings that enhance the gloss and printability of paper products. Moreover, its use in
the manufacture of superabsorbent polymers demonstrates its importance in personal care
products, such as diapers and hygiene items, where its absorption capacity and gel formation
ability provide improved performance. Despite being highly useful, it is crucial to handle
ethyl acrylate with care due to its volatile and potentially hazardous nature. Proper
storage and adherence to safety guidelines are necessary to minimize risks associated with
its use.
How is ethyl acrylate stored and handled safely in an industrial
setting?
Ensuring the safe storage and handling of ethyl acrylate in an industrial
setting is crucial due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards. Proper
practices begin with understanding the physical and chemical properties of ethyl acrylate.
In terms of storage, ethyl acrylate should be kept in a cool, well-ventilated area away from
direct sunlight and sources of heat or ignition. It's essential to store this compound in
tightly closed containers made from materials that can withstand its corrosive nature.
Containers should be labeled clearly to avoid confusion and handled by trained personnel
familiar with the chemical properties and handling procedures of ethyl acrylate.
When
it comes to handling ethyl acrylate, having a thorough risk assessment and safety plan in
place is imperative. Implementing the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as
gloves, goggles, and respirators helps to protect workers from exposure. Workers should be
trained in emergency response procedures for any potential spills or exposure incidents.
Adequate ventilation systems are necessary to prevent the accumulation of vapors that could
lead to respiratory issues or create flammable conditions. Proper grounding and bonding
practices should be observed during the transfer of ethyl acrylate to prevent static
discharge, which could ignite vapors.
Having spill containment and control measures
is crucial in case of accidental leaks or spills. Absorbent materials and neutralizing
agents should be readily available to manage such incidents quickly and effectively.
Additionally, monitoring equipment, such as gas detectors, can be installed to alert
personnel to dangerous concentrations of ethyl acrylate fumes. Regular inspections and
maintenance of storage facilities and equipment help ensure that everything remains in
optimal working condition and reduce the likelihood of accidents due to equipment failure.
Finally, staying informed about regulatory requirements and having safety data sheets (SDS)
accessible at all times ensure compliance and provide important guidance on safe
practices.
What are the potential health effects of exposure to ethyl
acrylate?
Exposure to ethyl acrylate can lead to various health effects, particularly
affecting the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. One of the immediate concerns when
handling ethyl acrylate is its potential to cause skin irritation. Direct contact with the
liquid can result in redness, itching, and in severe cases, blistering. Prolonged or
repeated exposure may lead to dermatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and
irritation of the skin. Workers dealing with this chemical should use protective clothing
and gloves to minimize skin contact and reduce the risk of adverse skin
reactions.
The eyes are also particularly susceptible to the effects of ethyl
acrylate. When exposed to vapors or liquid splashes, individuals may experience redness,
irritation, and a burning sensation. Such exposure can result in varying degrees of eye
damage, which is why eye protection, such as safety goggles or face shields, is crucial when
working with or near ethyl acrylate. Should eye exposure occur, it is important to rinse the
eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention to prevent further
complications.
Respiratory effects are another significant concern, as inhaling ethyl
acrylate vapors can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract. This may manifest as
coughing, difficulty breathing, and throat discomfort. In some cases, exposure may lead to
more severe respiratory conditions, including chemical pneumonitis, particularly if large
amounts are inhaled. To mitigate this risk, adequate ventilation and the use of appropriate
respiratory protective equipment are vital in settings where ethyl acrylate vapors may be
present.
In addition to immediate health effects, potential long-term effects of
ethyl acrylate exposure are a subject of study. Although some animal studies have indicated
the possibility of carcinogenic effects, the relevance to human health is still debated and
requires further research. It emphasizes the need for continued adherence to occupational
exposure limits and precautionary measures to minimize any risks associated with long-term
exposure. Understanding these potential health effects reinforces the importance of
implementing comprehensive safety protocols and ensuring that all personnel receive proper
training and access to safety information to protect their health while handling ethyl
acrylate.
How is ethyl acrylate used in the production of adhesives and
coatings?
Ethyl acrylate plays a pivotal role in the production of adhesives and
coatings due to its excellent film-forming properties, adhesion capabilities, and
versatility in polymer formulations. In adhesives, ethyl acrylate is commonly polymerized
with other monomers to create copolymers that exhibit a balance of flexibility, strength,
and adhesion. These copolymers can be engineered to produce pressure-sensitive adhesives,
which are widely used in applications such as tapes, labels, and stickers. The adhesive
formulations utilizing ethyl acrylate can be tailored to adhere to various substrates,
including paper, plastic, metal, and glass, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse
industrial requirements.
The use of ethyl acrylate in coatings is similarly driven by
its ability to enhance the physical and chemical properties of the resultant polymer films.
Coatings made from ethyl acrylate-based polymers are valued for their durability, resistance
to environmental factors, and ability to form clear, smooth films. Such properties make
these coatings suitable for various applications, including automotive finishes, protective
coatings for wood and metal, and decorative paints. Ethyl acrylate enables the development
of waterborne coatings, which are more environmentally friendly as they decrease the
reliance on organic solvents, thereby reducing volatile organic compound (VOC)
emissions.
In both adhesives and coatings, ethyl acrylate contributes to improved
flexibility, impact resistance, and resistance to UV degradation. It acts as a comonomer in
formulations that require a specific balance of hardness and elasticity, making it ideal for
applications requiring coatings that can withstand mechanical stress while maintaining their
appearance and protective qualities. The crosslinking potential of ethyl acrylate polymers
also contributes to the development of thermoset coatings, which are known for their
superior chemical resistance and long-lasting performance in harsh
environments.
Formulators can adjust the ratio of ethyl acrylate in copolymer systems
to fine-tune the adhesive or coating properties to meet specific application demands.
Research and innovation in polymer chemistry continue to explore new combinations involving
ethyl acrylate to expand its range of applications, enhance sustainability by developing
bio-based alternatives, and improve performance in challenging conditions. Its pivotal role
in the adhesives and coatings industries underscores the ongoing importance of ethyl
acrylate in producing high-performance materials that meet the evolving needs of various
sectors.
How does ethyl acrylate contribute to the properties of superabsorbent
polymers?
Ethyl acrylate is a significant component in the production of
superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), contributing to their unique absorbency and gel formation
characteristics. These polymers are engineered to absorb and retain large amounts of liquid
relative to their mass, making them indispensable in products requiring excellent moisture
management, such as diapers, adult incontinence products, and certain types of agricultural
soil conditioners. The role of ethyl acrylate in SAP formulation is integral to achieving
the desired absorbency and structural properties.
The absorbency properties of SAPs
stem from their chemical structure, where ethyl acrylate acts as a comonomer with acrylic
acid or other monomers. The resultant copolymer networks have hydrophilic groups that
interact with water molecules, allowing the polymer to swell considerably. This ability to
absorb water effectively is due to the crosslinked polymer matrix that entraps water within
its structure, preventing it from leaking or evaporating quickly. Ethyl acrylate contributes
to balancing the hydrophilic-hydrophobic interactions in the polymer, thereby enhancing the
absorption capacity and retention capability.
Moreover, the incorporation of ethyl
acrylate into the polymer matrix imparts certain mechanical and structural properties that
are critical for the functional performance of SAPs. The presence of ethyl acrylate in the
polymer helps modulate the elasticity and structural integrity of the swollen gel, which is
crucial for preventing breakdown under mechanical stress. This property is particularly
important in applications like diapers and hygiene products, where the SAPs are subjected to
varying levels of pressure and activity.
Ethyl acrylate also plays a role in
controlling the rate of absorption and the gel strength. By adjusting the proportion of
ethyl acrylate in the copolymer formulation, manufacturers can fine-tune the resultant
properties to suit specific applications. For instance, applications requiring rapid
absorption might utilize a different ratio of ethyl acrylate than those prioritizing maximum
liquid retention over extended periods.
In conclusion, ethyl acrylate enhances the
versatility and functionality of superabsorbent polymers, making them highly effective
components in products across various industries. By contributing to the structural and
absorptive properties, it ensures that SAPs meet the demanding performance standards
required in everyday applications, reinforcing the essential role of ethyl acrylate in
modern material science.
