Acrylic acid is the simplest unsaturated carboxylic acid. It is a colorless transparent liquid at room temperature with a strong pungent and acrid odor. It is prone to spontaneous polymerization. Industrial products require the addition of a polymerization inhibitor (such as monomethyl ether hydroquinone) to maintain stability.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaC3H4O2
Density:1.05g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:141℃
Solubility:
Freely miscible with water, ethanol and diethyl ether.
Molecular Weight:72.07g/mol
Flash Point:48-55℃
Melting Point:14℃
Uses
1. Polymer raw material: Homopolymerization / copolymerization to produce polyacrylic acid and acrylates, used in coatings, adhesives, textile sizing agents, superabsorbent polymers (SAP, for diapers and sanitary napkins).
2. Chemical intermediate: Production of acrylates, water treatment agents, detergents, leather chemicals, plastic additives, etc.
3. Others: Used in synthetic rubber, ion exchange resins, pharmaceutical intermediates and other fields.
Safety, Security & Risk
Physical Hazards
In the absence of polymerization inhibitors, the vapor may polymerize in vents or flame arresters of storage tanks, resulting in blockage.
Chemical Hazards
The substance readily polymerizes when heated, or under the action of light, oxygen, oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides), or other activators (acids, iron salts), posing a risk of fire or explosion.Upon heating, it decomposes and emits toxic fumes.The substance is a moderately strong acid.It reacts violently with strong bases and amines.It corrodes many metals including nickel and copper.