C3H4O2

C3H4O2 is the chemical formula for acrylic acid, also known as prop-2-enoic acid. Its structure is CH2=CH-CO2H, a vinyl group attached to a carboxyl group. It is the simplest member of the acrylic acid family and serves as a key monomer in polymer chemistry.

Acrylic acid is a colorless to pale liquid with a sharp odor. It is the principal monomer used to produce polyacrylates and related polymers, including acrylic esters used in paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and textiles. It polymerizes readily, especially in the presence of heat or radicals; isopropyl and tert-butyl hydroperoxides, or other initiators, can trigger polymerization. To prevent uncontrolled polymerization during storage and transport, inhibitors such as hydroquinone monomethyl ether are commonly used.

Industrial production occurs mainly by oxidation of propylene to acrolein, followed by partial oxidation to acrylic acid in the gas phase over oxide catalysts. This route is the dominant commercial process, though there are alternative pathways explored in industry and research, including routes from glycerol or other propylene derivatives.

Safety and handling: acrylic acid is corrosive to skin and eyes and can cause respiratory irritation. Vapors are reactive and can polymerize exothermically in the presence of initiators. It is typically handled with appropriate ventilation, containment measures, and stabilizers to control premature polymerization.

Other isomers with the same molecular formula are possible in principle, but acrylic acid (prop-2-enoic acid) is the best-known and commercially important compound associated with this formula.