Methylmethacrylat

Methyl methacrylate, frequently referred to as MMA, is an organic compound with the formula C5H8O2. It is the methyl ester of methacrylic acid and is a colorless, volatile liquid at room temperature with a sharp odor. It is soluble in many organic solvents and has limited solubility in water. Its boiling point is near 100°C, and it is flammable.

MMA is primarily used as the monomer to produce poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), a clear, hard, and shatter-resistant plastic known commercially as acrylic glass. PMMA has widespread applications in optics, automotive, construction, and consumer products. Beyond PMMA production, MMA is employed in coatings, adhesives, sealants, and dental materials, where it is used in denture bases and other resin formulations. It can also be found in specialty polymers and elastomeric blends.

Industrial production usually involves esterification of methacrylic acid with methanol. Methacrylic acid itself is derived through industrial processes that transform isobutylene and related feedstocks. The purification and stabilization of MMA are important to prevent premature polymerization during handling and storage.

Safety and handling are important considerations. MMA is a flammable liquid and vapors can form explosive mixtures with air. It is an irritant to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure may cause sensitization. In polymerization, radical initiators or heat can cause exothermic runaway reactions, so stabilizers and inhibitors (such as hydroquinone ethers) are routinely added during storage. Proper ventilation, containment, and personal protective equipment are standard in its handling.