2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate(HEMA) CAS 868-77-9 – Essential Hydrophilic Monomer

2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate(HEMA) CAS 868-77-9, widely known as HEMA, is a cornerstone functional monomer in the synthesis of hydrophilic polymers and copolymers. Featuring a methacrylate backbone with a hydroxyethyl side chain, it imparts excellent water affinity, biocompatibility, and adhesion properties. Our high-purity HEMA is meticulously refined for consistent reactivity, making it indispensable for creating soft, flexible materials in medical devices, coatings, and adhesives.

Key Properties of 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate(HEMA) CAS 868-77-9

2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with low viscosity, enabling easy handling and precise blending in emulsion or solution polymerization.

These characteristics make 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate a reliable choice for applications requiring balanced hydrophilicity and mechanical strength.

Applications of 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate(HEMA) CAS 868-77-9

The hydroxyl group in HEMA facilitates hydrogen bonding and cross-linking, unlocking its versatility across innovative sectors:

• Biomedical Devices: Core ingredient in soft contact lenses, intraocular lenses, and hydrogel scaffolds for tissue engineering due to high oxygen permeability and comfort.
• Adhesives and Coatings: Boosts wet adhesion and flexibility in water-based paints, inks, and medical tapes.
• Dental Materials: Enhances biocompatibility and polishability in restorative composites and bonding agents.
• Pharmaceuticals: Used in controlled-release drug delivery systems and bioadhesives for sustained therapeutic effects.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care: Improves texture and hydration in nail polishes and hair styling products.

Leveraging our HEMA ensures optimized performance, reduced processing times, and enhanced product safety in end-use applications.

Packaging and Storage Guidelines

• Available Packaging: 25 kg HDPE drums, 200 kg steel drums, or 1,000 kg IBC totes to accommodate various production scales.
• Storage Recommendations: Maintain in a tightly closed container under inert atmosphere (nitrogen preferred), at temperatures between 2-8°C, away from light and peroxides to avoid auto-polymerization. Shelf life: Up to 12 months with proper stabilization.
• Transportation: Classified as UN 3082, Hazard Class 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods), adhering to global regulatory standards for safe delivery.

Safety and Handling

2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate can cause moderate skin and eye irritation and may lead to allergic sensitization with repeated exposure. It is harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Employ PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, protective eyewear, and respirators in well-ventilated spaces. For spills, neutralize with absorbent and dispose per local guidelines. Detailed SDS available on request—our inhibited formulations prioritize user safety and formulation stability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate(HEMA) CAS 868-77-9

What makes 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate ideal for hydrogel production?

HEMA’s hydrophilic hydroxyethyl group enables the formation of water-swollen networks with tunable swelling ratios, providing comfort and permeability essential for biomedical hydrogels like contact lenses.

Is 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate compatible with aqueous systems?

Yes, its high water miscibility allows seamless integration into waterborne emulsions and latexes, supporting eco-friendly, low-VOC manufacturing processes.

What are the main health considerations when working with 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate?

Potential for dermal sensitization and irritation requires skin barrier creams and monitoring; avoid ingestion and inhalation by using enclosed systems and proper ventilation.

How can 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate be prevented from polymerizing during storage?

Incorporate stabilizers like hydroquinone or MEHQ at 100-500 ppm levels, and store under cool, dark conditions to inhibit radical formation from light or heat.

How does 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate compare to other hydroxy methacrylates?

HEMA offers superior water solubility and biocompatibility over longer-chain variants like hydroxypropyl methacrylate, making it preferable for ophthalmic and pharmaceutical uses.

What purity options are standard for your 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate?

We provide ≥98% purity as standard, with low color and inhibitor levels; higher grades (≥99%) are available for ultra-sensitive biomedical applications upon specification.

Can 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate contribute to sustainable practices?

Indeed, it supports solvent-free polymerization and biodegradable copolymer designs, minimizing environmental footprint in medical and coating industries.

Discover more ways our HEMA can transform your projects—our experts are ready to collaborate.

Transform Your Innovations with Superior 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate

Choose Aozun Chemical’s 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate for unparalleled quality, reliability, and support—fueling breakthroughs worldwide.

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