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Acrylic acid, also known as propenoic acid, is an organic compound with the formula CH2=CHCOOH. It is a colorless, volatile, and corrosive liquid with a characteristic acrid odor. Acrylic acid is a carboxylic acid and a vinyl compound, meaning it contains both a carboxyl group and a carbon-carbon double bond. This dual functionality makes it highly reactive and a versatile building block in polymer chemistry.

The primary industrial use of acrylic acid is as a precursor to the production of various polymers, most notably polyacrylates. These polymers are found in a wide range of everyday products. For instance, superabsorbent polymers derived from acrylic acid are used in disposable diapers and feminine hygiene products. Acrylic acid is also a key ingredient in the manufacture of paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and textiles. Its ability to form stable emulsions is crucial in latex paints. Furthermore, it finds application in the production of acrylic fibers, which are used in clothing and home furnishings.

Acrylic acid can be synthesized through several industrial processes, with the most common being the oxidation of propylene. This process typically involves a two-stage catalytic oxidation. It can also be produced by the hydrolysis of acrylonitrile. Due to its corrosive nature and potential for polymerization, acrylic acid requires careful handling and storage. It is typically stabilized with inhibitors to prevent unwanted polymerization during transport and storage.