Functional Monomers

Tetrahydrofurfuryl Acrylate

Tetrahydrofurfuryl Acrylate (THFA), identified by CAS 2399-48-6, is a versatile monofunctional monomer widely utilized in the ultraviolet (UV) and electron beam (EB) curing industry. Chemically classified as a specialty acrylate ester, it features a cyclic ether structure derived from renewable biomass sources like corn cobs or sugarcane bagasse, positioning it as a sustainable alternative in modern chemical formulations. As a reactive diluent, THFA is prized for its exceptional ability to reduce the viscosity of high-molecular-weight oligomers without compromising mechanical integrity. Its unique molecular architecture balances low volatility with high solvency, making it an indispensable component in high-performance coatings, inks, and adhesives. Within the radiation-curable market, THFA serves as a critical bridge between environmental compliance and technical excellence, providing superior adhesion to difficult substrates such as plastics and metals. Its role extends into 3D printing and electronics, where precision and rapid polymerization are paramount for industrial success.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High solvency power: Effectively reduces formulation viscosity while maintaining low volatility for improved safety.
Superior adhesion: Enhances bonding to challenging non-polar substrates including polyethylene and polypropylene.
Low shrinkage: Minimizes internal stress during the curing process, ensuring dimensional stability and integrity.
Excellent flexibility: Imparts impact resistance and toughness to cured polymer networks.
High purity: Manufactured to stringent standards to ensure consistent reactivity and batch-to-batch reliability.
Renewable origins: Leverages bio-based feedstocks, supporting green chemistry initiatives and reducing the overall carbon footprint of final products.
Enhanced weatherability: Provides resistance to yellowing and environmental degradation.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Physical Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild, characteristic odor.
Molecular Weight: 156.18 g/mol.
Viscosity: Low viscosity, typically ranging from 2 to 6 mPa·s at 25°C.
Solubility: Excellent solubility in most organic solvents; insoluble in water.
Refractive Index: Approximately 1.45 to 1.46 at 20°C.
Handling Guidelines: Store in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources; typically stabilized with MEHQ to prevent premature polymerization.
Safety: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as it may cause skin irritation or sensitization upon contact.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

UV/EB Curable Coatings: Primary reactive diluent for wood, plastic, and metal finishes to improve flow and adhesion.
Graphic Arts: Used in inkjet inks and screen-printing formulations for high-definition color and substrate wetting.
Adhesives and Sealants: Enhances bond strength in structural and pressure-sensitive adhesives across various industrial sectors.
3D Printing: Critical monomer in stereolithography (SLA) resins for high-resolution prototyping and functional parts.
Electronics: Utilized in photoresists and solder masks due to its excellent electrical insulation properties and chemical resistance.
Dental Materials: Incorporated into composite resins for its biocompatibility and curing efficiency.