Methyl methacrylate

Methyl methacrylate (CAS 80-62-6), commonly known as MMA, is a reactive monomer used as the primary building block for polymerization processes.

Where is Methyl methacrylate used?

• Coatings and surface treatments: polymerized to produce acrylic resins
• Adhesives and sealants: MMA-based systems with fast cure and high bond strength, including structural acrylic adhesives for bonding metals and plastics
• Plastics manufacturing: feedstock for cast and extruded PMMA sheet in signage, displays, and optical components
• Printing and packaging: MMA copolymers in UV-curable inks and barrier coatings
• It polymerizes readily to form poly(methyl methacrylate) and serves as a co-monomer in acrylic polymer formulations.
• Used to produce methyl methacrylate-butadiene-styrene (MBS) copolymer, an impact modifier for PVC.
• Can replace the styrene monomer in unsaturated polyester resins to provide better weather resistance and longer outdoor life.
• In free-radical initiated copolymers, raises the glass transition temperature (Tg) and contributes durability, toughness, clarity, and UV and abrasion resistance.

Good to know: Stabilized liquid monomer, typically inhibited with hydroquinone monomethyl ether (MEHQ) to prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport. Inhibitor levels and purity specifications vary by end-use requirement.

Formulation notes

• Vapours are not inhibited and can polymerize causing blockage of vents.
• Compressed air must not be used to fill, discharge or handle methyl methacrylate.

Typical specification

• Hydroquinone monomethyl ether is used as a polymerization inhibitor at a concentration of 22 to 120 ppm.
• Methacrylic acid is an impurity often identified in commercial products at a concentration of less than or equal to 0.005% w/w.
• Available as a 99.5% grade containing 30 ppm MEHQ as stabilizer.

Regulatory status

• The EU occupational exposure limit for methyl methacrylate is 50 ppm as TWA and 100 ppm as STEL.
• If placed on the market in non-stabilised form, the label must show the substance name followed by the word 'non stabilisé' (Note D).
• Classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapour under CLP.
• Has the EU index number 607-035-00-6.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Can polymerize due to heating under the influence of light, polymerization catalysts and strong oxidants, creating a fire or explosion risk.
• Must be stored away from strong oxidants, strong bases and strong acids.
• Must be stored cold and in the dark.

Frequently asked questions about Methyl methacrylate

What is the UN transport classification for methyl methacrylate?

It is classified under UN transport as Class 3, packing group II.

What are the applications of methyl methacrylate in concrete repair and LCD screens?

Low-viscosity, fast-curing methyl methacrylate reactive resin systems are used to seal and close cracks and pores in concrete surfaces and structures, and it is used in plates that evenly diffuse light in LCD computer and TV screens.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.