Colorless transparent liquid Butyl acrylate CAS 57-13-6

Product Description: Butyl Acrylate

Butyl acrylate is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid distinguished by its characteristic fruity odor. As a pivotal monomer in the petrochemical industry, it serves as a fundamental building block for a vast array of polymers and copolymers. Its unique chemical structure allows it to impart exceptional flexibility, durability, and adhesion to the materials it helps create, making it indispensable in modern manufacturing.

It is characterized by its high reactivity and low glass transition temperature ($T_g$), which translates to "soft" polymer properties. This makes it an essential ingredient for formulating products that require resistance to cracking, weathering, and water damage. While it is insoluble in water, it mixes readily with ethanol and ether, offering versatility in various chemical processes.

Primary Applications

Butyl acrylate is rarely used as a standalone material but is critical as a copolymerization monomer. Its primary applications include:

• Coatings and Paints: It is extensively used in acrylic emulsions for architectural coatings (latex paints), industrial finishes, and automotive coatings. It provides gloss, color retention, and resistance to UV degradation and weathering.
• Adhesives and Sealants: Due to its ability to create tacky, flexible polymers, it is a key component in pressure-sensitive adhesives (tape, labels), construction adhesives, and sealants.
• Textiles and Leather: Used in finishing agents to improve the hand feel (softness), durability, and wash resistance of fabrics and leather products.
• Plastics and Rubbers: Acts as a modifier for plastics (like PVC impact modifiers) and synthetic rubbers to enhance low-temperature flexibility and impact resistance.
• Paper and Construction: Applied in paper coating formulations to improve strength and printability, as well as in construction chemicals for concrete admixtures.

Packaging and Storage

Butyl acrylate is a reactive monomer and requires careful handling to maintain stability.

• Packaging: It is typically supplied in 200L coated steel drums, ISO tanks, or bulk tankers. The containers must be sealed to prevent moisture ingress and contamination.
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and open flames. The storage temperature should ideally be kept between 10°C and 25°C.
• Stability: Because it is prone to spontaneous polymerization, it must be kept away from peroxides, strong acids, and strong bases. The inhibitor (MEHQ) requires the presence of oxygen to function effectively; therefore, storage tanks should not be blanketed with inert gas unless specific measures are taken to maintain inhibitor levels.

Safety Information

Butyl acrylate is classified as a flammable liquid and a skin/eye irritant.

• Hazard Statements:
  • H226: Flammable liquid and vapor.
  • H315: Causes skin irritation.
  • H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction.
  • H319: Causes serious eye irritation.
• Precautionary Statements: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. Use explosion-proof electrical equipment. Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection, and face protection. Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling vapors.
• First Aid: In case of skin contact, wash immediately with soap and water. If inhaled, move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.