2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate

2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA, CAS 818-61-1) is a reactive acrylic monomer carrying both a hydroxyl and an acrylate functional group. It is commercially available under trade names including Rocryl 420, Bisomer 2HEA, Viscoat 220, and Light Ester HOA. No E-code applies to this substance.

In UV-curable coatings and radiation-cured adhesives, HEA reacts through its acrylate group to incorporate into the polymer backbone while the free hydroxyl group provides sites for further crosslinking with isocyanates or melamines, controlling network density and adhesion. In pressure-sensitive adhesives and sealants, it is used to tune peel strength and cohesion at low addition levels.

HEA is supplied as an inhibited technical-grade liquid and falls under REACH registration obligations within the EU. Standard packaging includes 200 kg drums and IBC containers. Buyers should confirm inhibitor type and concentration, as grades vary between suppliers and affect shelf life and processing conditions.