Methacrylic acid

CAS: 79-41-4

Overview

Methacrylic acid (CAS 79-41-4 ), commonly abbreviated as MAA, is a reactive monomer and organic acid used as a foundational building block in polymer synthesis. It enables the production of acrylate and methacrylate copolymers that underpin a broad range of industrial and consumer materials.

In plastics and polymer manufacturing, MAA is copolymerized with acrylates, styrene, or vinyl monomers to produce resins with controlled adhesion, flexibility, and pH-responsive behavior. These characteristics are critical for coatings, adhesives, and ion-exchange materials.

Personal care formulators incorporate MAA-based polymers into carbomer-type thickeners, film formers, and fixative resins used in haircare and skincare products. These polymers provide the necessary texture and performance required for modern cosmetic formulations.

In specialty coatings and dispersions, MAA content determines carboxyl group density, directly influencing crosslink density and substrate adhesion in industrial finishes. This allows for the creation of durable surfaces that withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Pharmaceutical and controlled-release applications use MAA copolymers to engineer enteric coatings that govern drug release profiles. These systems ensure that active ingredients are delivered effectively within the human body at the correct physiological stage.

Methacrylic acid is supplied as a liquid, typically with inhibitor added to prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport. Standard commercial grades include technical and glacial specifications to meet various industrial needs.

Purity levels are commonly at 99% or higher for polymerization-grade material, ensuring consistent performance in sensitive chemical reactions. Bulk quantities are available in drums, IBCs, and isotank shipments for global distribution.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	16 °C
Boiling Point	163 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density	1.0153 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point	170 °F
Appearance	colourless liquid or crystals with an unpleasant odour.
Color	Clear
Odor	Repulsive
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	9.7 g/100 mL (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	1 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.431(lit.)
pH	2.0-2.2 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P	0.93 at 22℃

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS06 GHS08 Hazard Statements H227 Combustible liquid H302 Harmful if swallowed H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways H311 Toxic in contact with skin H312 Harmful in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H332 Harmful if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H370 Causes damage to organs H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H402 Harmful to aquatic life Precautionary Statements P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P331 Do NOT induce vomiting. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P403 Store in a well-ventilated place. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P361+P364 Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29161300
UN Number	2531
ADR Class	8
Packing Group	II
Storage Class	6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Personal Care & Cosmetics Food & Nutrition Plastics & Polymers