Functional Monomers

i-Butyl Methacrylate (i-BMA)

Isobutyl methacrylate (i-BMA), identified by CAS Number 97-86-9, is a high-performance monomer and a vital ester of methacrylic acid. This clear, colorless liquid serves as a fundamental building block in the synthesis of acrylic resins and copolymers. Distinguished by its branched alkyl structure, i-BMA offers a unique middle ground in terms of glass transition temperature (Tg) and polymer hardness, falling between methyl methacrylate and longer-chain acrylates. This positioning allows formulators to achieve a precise balance of flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance. In the industrial landscape, i-BMA is recognized for its ability to improve the solubility of resins in organic solvents while providing excellent weatherability and UV stability to the final products. As a reactive monomer, it is primarily used in free-radical polymerization processes to create high-quality coatings, adhesives, and specialty plastics that must withstand environmental stressors. Its reliable reactivity and consistent performance make it a preferred choice for global manufacturers in the automotive and architectural sectors.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Exceptional Purity: High-grade monomer ensures predictable reaction kinetics and minimizes impurities in the final polymer matrix.
UV and Weather Resistance: Provides superior protection against sunlight degradation and environmental weathering in exterior applications.
Flexibility Balance: Offers an ideal glass transition temperature that bridges the gap between rigid and soft polymers.
Enhanced Adhesion: Promotes excellent substrate wetting and bonding across various surfaces, particularly in adhesive formulations.
Low Color and High Clarity: Maintains transparency and prevents yellowing in clear coats and optical materials.
Chemical Resistance: Imparts resistance to water, acids, and alkalis, extending the service life of coatings.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic ester odor.
Molecular Formula: C8H14O2 with a molecular weight of 142.2 g/mol.
Purity Level: Minimum 99.0% by weight via gas chromatography.
Solubility Profile: Insoluble in water but highly miscible with most organic solvents including ethanol and diethyl ether.
Boiling Point: Approximately 155°C at 760 mmHg.
Flash Point: 43°C (closed cup), classified as a flammable liquid.
Stabilization: Typically inhibited with Topanol A or MEHQ to prevent spontaneous polymerization.
Handling Guidelines: Should be stored in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and strong oxidizers.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Automotive Industry: Essential in the production of high-gloss clearcoats and durable basecoats for vehicles.
Architectural Coatings: Used in exterior paints and masonry finishes for enhanced moisture and UV resistance.
Industrial Adhesives: A key ingredient in pressure-sensitive adhesives and structural sealants for improved flexibility.
Textile and Paper Finishes: Applied as a coating agent to improve water repellency and surface durability.
Dental Resins: Utilized in specialized medical and dental applications for custom resin formulations.
Plastics Modification: Functions as a co-monomer to adjust the impact resistance and processing characteristics of thermoplastic resins.
Specialty Inks: Incorporated into UV-curable and solvent-based printing inks for better adhesion to plastic substrates.