Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)

Butyl Methacrylate (BMA), is a versatile, colorless liquid acrylic monomer widely used in the production of high-performance polymers and resins. With the chemical formula C8H14O2 and CAS Number 97-88-1, BMA is valued for its excellent balance of flexibility, durability, adhesion, and weather resistance. It is a key building block in homopolymers and copolymers, making it essential in industries such as coatings, adhesives, textiles, and plastics.
BMA polymerizes easily under free-radical conditions, imparting low glass transition temperature (Tg around 20°C for homopolymers), superior UV stability, and moisture resistance to final products. Stabilized with inhibitors like monomethyl ether hydroquinone (MEHQ), it ensures safe handling and long shelf life.

Technical Specifications

Packaging and Storage

• In steel drums, net weight 180kg, or stainless steel tank.
• Avoid shine, rain and high temperature. Stored in cool, dry and ventilated places. Keep away from fire. Shelf life 6 months below 30℃.

Benefits and Performance Advantages

• Excellent UV and weather resistance
• Superior adhesion to metals, plastics, and low-energy surfaces
• Good chemical and water resistance
• Low volatility and mild odor compared to acrylate analogs
• Compatible with a wide range of comonomers
• Contributes to low-VOC formulations in water-based systems

Primary Applications of Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)

BMA is a plasticizing comonomer that imparts flexibility, impact resistance, and excellent adhesion to polymer systems while maintaining good weatherability and chemical resistance. Common uses include:

Paints and Coatings:
Water-borne and solvent-borne architectural paints, industrial finishes, wood coatings, metal coatings, and automotive refinishes.

Adhesives and Sealants:
Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA), structural adhesives, caulks, and sealants for construction and automotive industries.

Textile, Leather, and Paper Finishing:
Emulsion polymers for fabric coatings, non-woven binders, and paper treatment.

Printing Inks and Toners:
Flexographic inks, screen inks, and copier toners.

Oil and Lubricant Additives:
Viscosity modifiers and pour-point depressants.

Emulsion Polymers:
Acrylic emulsions for gloss, durability, and water resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)?
Butyl Methacrylate (BMA) (CAS 97-88-1) is an ester of methacrylic acid and n-butanol. It is a clear, colorless acrylic monomer used primarily for producing flexible, durable polymers through free-radical polymerization.

What is the difference between Butyl Methacrylate (BMA) and Butyl Acrylate (BA)?
BMA is a methacrylate with a methyl group on the backbone, providing higher Tg (~20°C homopolymer), better hardness, and superior weather resistance. BA (acrylate) has a much lower Tg (-45°C to -55°C), offering greater flexibility but lower durability in outdoor applications.

What inhibitors are used in Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)?
Commercial BMA is stabilized with 10–100 ppm MEHQ (monomethyl ether hydroquinone) to prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport.

How should Butyl Methacrylate (BMA) be stored?
Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool (<30°C), dark, well-ventilated area. Keep away from ignition sources, peroxides, and strong acids/bases. Shelf life is typically 6–12 months with proper inhibition.

Is Butyl Methacrylate (BMA) biodegradable or environmentally friendly?
BMA itself has low biodegradability, but acrylic polymers derived from it are durable and recyclable in many applications.

What are common copolymers involving Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)?
Popular combinations include BMA/MMA (for acrylic sheets), BMA/2-EHA (for flexible coatings), and BMA/styrene/acrylic acid (for emulsion paints).

Where can I buy high-quality Butyl Methacrylate (BMA)?

You can contact us via email [email protected] for offers or bulk orders.