Functional Monomers

Tert-Butyl Acrylate (t-BA)

Tert-Butyl Acrylate (t-BA), identified by CAS Number 1663-39-4, is a highly reactive specialty monomer classified as an ester of acrylic acid. As a clear, colorless liquid, it serves as a fundamental building block in the synthesis of high-performance polymers and copolymers. The inclusion of the bulky tert-butyl group provides significant steric hindrance, which allows for precise control over the polymer architecture, glass transition temperature, and mechanical properties. This monomer is highly regarded for its hydrophobic characteristics, providing finished products with superior moisture and chemical resistance. In the global marketplace, t-BA is an essential component for manufacturers producing pressure-sensitive adhesives, high-durability coatings, and specialized thermoplastic resins. Its versatility as a chemical intermediate facilitates the development of advanced materials across various industrial sectors, making it a critical choice for applications requiring specific performance attributes like enhanced rigidity, improved adhesion, and long-term environmental stability.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High chemical purity ensures consistent polymerization results and minimal batch-to-batch variation.
Strong hydrophobic properties significantly improve the water resistance of coatings and adhesive formulations.
The bulky tert-butyl side chain enhances polymer rigidity and allows for tailored glass transition temperatures.
Excellent compatibility with diverse co-monomers facilitates the creation of complex copolymer systems.
High resistance to hydrolysis compared to primary acrylates ensures long-term product durability.
Low residual odor in polymerized forms makes it suitable for indoor and consumer-facing applications.
Provides improved UV stability and weatherability for materials exposed to harsh outdoor environments.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive pungent odor.
Molecular Weight: 128.17 g/mol.
Density: Approximately 0.875 g/cm³ at 20°C.
Boiling Point: Approximately 120°C.
Flash Point: 17°C, requiring stringent flammable liquid handling protocols.
Solubility: Highly soluble in common organic solvents like ethanol and ethers; very low solubility in water.
Stabilization: Generally inhibited with MEHQ to ensure shelf-life stability and prevent spontaneous polymerization.
Storage Conditions: Must be kept in cool, dark, and well-ventilated environments away from ignition sources.
Purity Standards: Typically available at 99% purity or higher for industrial and laboratory use.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Adhesives: Essential in formulating pressure-sensitive and specialty industrial adhesives.
Surface Coatings: Used in automotive and architectural coatings for enhanced chemical and abrasion resistance.
Plastic Modification: Improves the impact resistance and processing efficiency of various thermoplastic resins.
Textiles: Utilized in high-end textile finishing agents and fiber treatments.
Paper Manufacturing: Acts as a binder in paper coatings and sizing applications.
Chemical Synthesis: Serves as a versatile intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Water Management: Applied in the synthesis of specialty dispersants and flocculation agents.
Materials Science: Crucial for researching and developing advanced block copolymers and functional polymers.