Octadecyl Acrylate: Properties, Applications, and Safety Considerations

Octadecyl acrylate, also known as stearyl acrylate, is a type of acrylate monomer that consists of an acrylate functional group and a long hydrocarbon chain of 18 carbon atoms. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild odor and is commonly used in the production of polymers and copolymers.

Applications: Octadecyl acrylate is widely used in the manufacturing of coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Due to its hydrophobic nature, it is often used as a co-monomer with other acrylate monomers to improve the water resistance of the final product. It also has excellent adhesion properties, making it useful in the production of pressure-sensitive adhesives.

Polymers produced with octadecyl acrylate have a wide range of applications, including packaging, automotive, and construction. For example, poly(stearyl acrylate) is used as a binder in coatings and adhesives, while poly(stearyl acrylate-co-methyl methacrylate) is used in dental materials due to its biocompatibility and adhesion properties.

Physical and Chemical Properties: Octadecyl acrylate has a molecular weight of 298.48 g/mol and a boiling point of approximately 350 °C. It is soluble in organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and toluene, but is insoluble in water. It has a flash point of 156 °C and a specific gravity of 0.852.

Safety Considerations: Octadecyl acrylate can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact and should be handled with care. It is also combustible and should be stored away from sources of ignition. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, should be worn when handling octadecyl acrylate.

Conclusion: Octadecyl acrylate is a versatile acrylate monomer with a long hydrocarbon chain that is widely used in the production of coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Its excellent adhesion properties and water resistance make it an ideal co-monomer in polymer production. However, care should be taken when handling octadecyl acrylate due to its potential to cause skin and eye irritation.