Metakrüülester

Metakrüülester, also known as methyl methacrylate (MMA), is an organic compound with the formula CH2=C(CH3)COOCH3. It is a volatile, colorless liquid with a characteristic acrid odor. MMA is a monomer, meaning it is a small molecule that can chemically bond to other monomers to form a polymer. Its primary use is in the production of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a transparent thermoplastic commonly known by trade names such as Plexiglas and Lucite. PMMA is widely used as a shatter-resistant alternative to glass in applications ranging from windows and signs to automotive parts and medical devices.

MMA can be produced through various chemical processes, with the acetone cyanohydrin (ACH) process being one of the most common. This involves reacting acetone with hydrogen cyanide to form acetone cyanohydrin, which is then treated with sulfuric acid and methanol. The resulting ester undergoes polymerization to form PMMA. In addition to PMMA, MMA is also a component in certain adhesives, coatings, and impact modifiers for other plastics. Its ability to polymerize readily and the desirable properties of its resulting polymer make it a significant industrial chemical.