2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate

2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (CAS 868-77-9), commonly abbreviated as HEMA, is a reactive acrylic monomer also known under trade names such as Monomer MG 1 and Glycol methacrylate. It carries no E-code designation and is registered under EC number 212-782-2 with the molecular formula C6H10O3.

In UV-curable coatings, HEMA acts as a reactive diluent that lowers viscosity while chemically incorporating into the polymer network during cure, reducing volatile emissions compared to solvent-based systems. In dental composites and medical-grade adhesives, its hydroxyl group enables hydrogen bonding with substrates, improving adhesion to polar surfaces. It also serves as a crosslinking comonomer in acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesives to control gel fraction and cohesive strength.

HEMA is supplied as a stabilised liquid grade and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. It is classified under HS code 29161490 for import and export purposes. Packaging formats typically include drums and IBCs, with documentation available to support procurement and formulation compliance workflows.