Isobutyl methacrylate

CAS: 97-86-9

Overview

Isobutyl methacrylate (CAS 97-86-9 ), commonly abbreviated as IBMA, is a methacrylate monomer used to build flexibility, adhesion, and hardness balance into polymer systems.

It functions as a reactive building block in emulsion, solution, and bulk polymerization processes across coatings, adhesives, and specialty resin manufacturing industries worldwide.

In architectural and industrial coatings, IBMA is copolymerized to tune film hardness and outdoor durability without sacrificing flexibility. Automotive refinish formulators incorporate it into acrylic resins.

Controlled glass transition temperature is critical to coating performance in these applications. In pressure-sensitive and structural adhesives, it contributes to tack and cohesive strength.

This occurs when the monomer is balanced against harder or softer comonomers. Printing inks and packaging lacquers use IBMA-based copolymers to achieve adhesion to difficult substrates.

These substrates often include various films and foils used in the packaging sector. Isobutyl methacrylate is supplied as a clear liquid, typically inhibited with MEHQ to prevent polymerization.

Hydroquinone monomethyl ether ensures stability during storage and transport. It is available in technical and monomer-grade specifications suited to industrial polymerization applications.

Standard packaging includes drums and ISO tank containers, with bulk quantities available for high-volume polymer producers requiring consistent material for large-scale manufacturing.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-37 °C
Boiling Point	155 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density	0.8858 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point	107 °F
Appearance	colourless liquid
Color	Clear colorless
Odor	ether-like odor
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	Soluble in water at 20°C, 2g/L
Vapor Pressure	3.5 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.420(lit.)
Log P	2.95 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS02 GHS07 GHS09 Hazard Statements H226 Flammable liquid and vapor H315 Causes skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H319 Causes serious eye irritation H320 Causes eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H400 Very toxic to aquatic life H402 Harmful to aquatic life Precautionary Statements P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P233 Keep container tightly closed. P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment. P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment. P242 Use non-sparking tools. P243 Take action to prevent static discharges. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. 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. P403+P235 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool. P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P351+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	29161290
UN Number	2283
ADR Class	3
Packing Group	III
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Automotive Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers Printing & Packaging Plastics & Polymers