2-Isocyanatoethyl acrylate

2-Isocyanatoethyl acrylate (CAS 13641-96-8, EC 482-140-6) is a bifunctional reactive monomer carrying both an isocyanate and an acrylate group on a single ethylene backbone. It is commercially available under the trade names Karenz AOI and AOI-VM, and is registered under REACH for supply within the European Economic Area.

In UV-curable coatings and adhesives, the isocyanate group reacts with hydroxyl- or amine-bearing substrates to form urethane or urea linkages, while the acrylate group participates in free-radical photopolymerisation, enabling dual-cure network formation. This dual reactivity is also exploited in pressure-sensitive adhesives and printing inks where controlled cross-link density directly governs tack and cohesive strength.

The material is supplied as a stabilised clear liquid, typically in inhibited grades to prevent premature polymerisation during storage and transport. It is subject to REACH registration requirements and classified under HS code 2929100090. Packaging formats commonly available from European distributors include drums and intermediate bulk containers.