Functional Monomers

2-(2-Ethoxyethoxy)ethyl Acrylate (EOEOEA)

2-(2-Ethoxyethoxy)ethyl Acrylate, commonly identified by its CAS number 7328-17-8 and often abbreviated as EEA, is a high-performance monofunctional monomer used extensively in the specialty chemicals industry. As a glycol ether-based acrylate, it serves as an exceptional reactive diluent primarily within radiation-curable systems, including ultraviolet (UV) and electron beam (EB) technologies. The molecule features a unique ethoxy-ethoxy ether backbone that provides a critical balance of low viscosity, high solvency, and enhanced flexibility in the resulting polymer matrix. EEA is classified as a versatile building block, bridging the gap between polar and non-polar formulations. Its ability to maintain structural integrity while significantly reducing resin viscosity makes it indispensable for modern high-solids and 100% solids coatings. In the global market, it is recognized for its contribution to superior surface wetting and adhesion, playing a vital role in the development of sophisticated inks, adhesives, and protective surface treatments.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Exceptional Viscosity Reduction: Acts as a powerful reactive thinner, allowing for higher filler loading and easier application of complex formulations.
Enhanced Impact Resistance: The flexible ether linkage provides internal plasticization, significantly improving the elongation and toughness of cured materials.
Superior Adhesion: Promotes excellent bonding to low-surface-energy substrates, including various plastics, treated metals, and glass.
Low Volatility: Exhibits low vapor pressure, contributing to a safer and more stable manufacturing environment compared to traditional volatile monomers.
Reliable Purity: Produced to high industrial standards to ensure consistent cure rates and optimal performance in sensitive electronic or optical applications.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Physical State: Clear, colorless liquid with a mild, characteristic odor.
Molecular Specifications: Formula C9H16O4; Molecular Weight 188.22 g/mol.
Solubility: Completely miscible with most common organic solvents and acrylate-based resins.
Thermal Properties: High boiling point of approximately 240 degrees Celsius, providing stability during processing.
Storage Requirements: Must be stored in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, typically stabilized with MEHQ to prevent premature polymerization.
Material Compatibility: Highly compatible with a wide range of urethane, epoxy, and polyester acrylate oligomers.
Handling: Requires standard chemical-resistant personal protective equipment to prevent skin and eye contact.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

UV/EB Cured Inks: Essential component in inkjet and screen-printing inks for improved flow and substrate wetting.
Performance Coatings: Used in wood, plastic, and metal finishes to enhance flexibility and weather resistance.
Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives: Incorporated into adhesive formulations to provide a balance of tack, peel, and shear strength.
Electronics Manufacturing: Utilized in the production of photoresists and solder masks for printed circuit boards.
Solder Masks: Provides the necessary chemical resistance and mechanical durability for sensitive electronic components.
Specialty Polymer Synthesis: Serves as a monomer for creating custom acrylic copolymers with specific ethoxy functionality and hydrophilicity.