| Chemical Properties | A colorless and transparent liquid that is nearly insoluble in water but can be mixed with alcohol and ether. It was present in a surgical tape and caused allergic contact dermatitis in a patient. |
| Uses | 2-ethylhexyl acrylate is a monomer for plastics, protective coating, paper treatment, water-based paints, UV-curable coatings, and inks; in so me acrylicbased adhesive tapes. |
| Definition | ChEBI: 2-Ethylhexyl acrylate is an ester of enoic acid. It is commonly used as a plasticizing co-monomer in the production of resins, which are utilized in various applications such as adhesives, latex, paints, textile and leather finishes, and coatings for paper. |
| Preparation | 2-Ethylhexyl acrylate is obtained by esterifying acrylic acid and 2-ethylhexanol with sulfuric acid as a catalyst, and subsequently neutralizing, dealcoholizing and rectifying the mixture. |
| General Description | 2-ethylhexyl acrylate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. Flash point 180 °F. Used in making of paints and plastics. |
| Air & Water Reactions | Insoluble in water. |
| Reactivity Profile | 2-Ethylhexyl acrylate polymerizes readily in the presence of heat and light generating much heat; reacts with strong oxidants. REF [Handling Chemicals Safely, 1980. p. 235]. |
| Hazard | Questionable carcinogen. |
| Health Hazard | Inhalation of concentrated vapor causes drowsiness and convulsions. Liquid causes irritation of eyes and may irritate skin on prolonged exposure. Ingestion produces same symptoms as inhalation. |
| Fire Hazard | Behavior in Fire: Heat can result in a severe polymerization with rapid release of energy. Sealed containers may rupture explosively if hot. |
| Flammability and Explosibility | Notclassified |
| Potential Exposure | A potential danger to those involved
in the use of this monomer as a feedstock for chemical syntheses; in the manufacture of plastics; protective coatings,
including water-based paints; in paper treatment; the production of emulsion polymers. |
| Incompatibilities | Unless inhibited, sunlight, heat, contaminants, or peroxides can cause dangerous polymerization.
Vapors are uninhibited and may polymerize, blocking
vents. Violent reaction with strong oxidizers, with risk of
fire and explosions. May form explosive mixture with air.
Incompatible with strong acids; aliphatic amines;
alkanolamines. |
| Waste Disposal | Spray into incinerator with
added flammable solvent. |
