Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate CAS No.868-77-9

Molecular formula：CH2C(CH3 )COOCH2CH2OH

Item Enterprise Standard Test Results Test Method
Purity ≥97% 97.76% GC
Polymerization

inhibitor

 200±20 ppm 205PPM Spectrophotometry
Color ≤10 5 PT-CO
Moisture ≤0.1% 0.021%  KARL FISCHER
Free Acid (AS MAA) ≤0.1% 0.019% TITRATION

 

hydroxyethyl methacrylate CAS No.868-77-9Application: HEMA is extensively applied in manufacturing the hydroxyl acrylic resin with  active group and the disposition of coating industry and epoxy resin , diisocyanate and melamino-formaldehyde resin for the production of two component coatings and the function of washing additive of lubricating oil in  oil production industry.

Packaging：200KG DRUM、IBC、ISOTANK

Applications

Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate finds extensive use in high-value sectors:

  • Ophthalmic Products: Core component in soft contact lenses and intraocular lenses for superior oxygen permeability and comfort.
  • Dental Materials: Improves bonding and durability in restorative composites, sealants, and orthodontic adhesives.
  • Adhesives and Coatings: Enhances flexibility and chemical resistance in UV-curable inks, automotive finishes, and medical tapes.
  • Biomedical Devices: Enables drug delivery systems, biosensors, and tissue scaffolds for controlled release and regeneration.
  • Personal Care and Cosmetics: Stabilizes formulations in nail enhancements and hydrogels, though sensitivity considerations apply.

In copolymerization, HEMA pairs effectively with acrylates, vinyls, and siloxanes to create tailored polymers with optimized mechanical and optical properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate used for?

Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (HEMA) serves as a functional monomer in hydrogels, lenses, and adhesives, imparting hydrophilicity and adhesion for ophthalmic, dental, and biomedical applications like contact lenses and drug delivery.

Is Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate safe to handle?

HEMA can cause skin sensitization and irritation; it’s not acutely toxic but requires PPE and ventilation. Individuals with methacrylate allergies should avoid direct contact, as it may trigger eczema or respiratory issues.

What are the storage requirements for HEMA?

Keep HEMA in cool (5-15°C), dark conditions under inert gas with a stabilizer like MEHQ to prevent polymerization. Use tightly sealed containers; avoid metals and strong bases. Typical shelf life: 12 months.

Can Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate be used in water-based formulations?

Yes, its polar hydroxy group ensures excellent water solubility (up to 50% at 20°C), making HEMA ideal for aqueous emulsions, hydrogels, and low-VOC coatings in eco-conscious products.

How does HEMA differ from Hydroxypropyl Methacrylate (HPMA)?

HEMA features a shorter ethyl chain for higher water solubility and rigidity, suiting ophthalmic uses, while HPMA’s propyl chain adds flexibility and lower allergenicity, better for nail and flexible coatings.

What is the typical dosage of HEMA in formulations?

HEMA is incorporated at 10-40% by weight in copolymers; for contact lenses, 20-30% balances swelling and strength, while dental composites use 5-15% for adhesion without excess viscosity.

Does HEMA comply with regulatory standards?

HEMA adheres to FDA, REACH, and TSCA for medical and industrial applications, including biocompatibility testing (ISO 10993). It’s approved for indirect food contact but not direct ingestion.

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Core Product Lineup

Product Name Abbreviation CAS Number Key Properties & Uses
Methacrylic Acid MAA 79-41-4 Reactive monomer for acrylic resins; enhances hardness and chemical resistance in paints, adhesives, and textiles.
Methyl Methacrylate MMA 80-62-6 Clear liquid for PMMA (Plexiglas®-like sheets); ideal for optical lenses, signage, and injection-molded parts with high impact strength.
Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate HEMA 868-77-9 Hydrophilic monomer for hydrogels; excels in contact lenses, dental composites, and drug delivery systems for biocompatibility and flexibility.
Hydroxypropyl Methacrylate HPMA 27813-02-1 Flexible hydroxy monomer; boosts moisture resistance in coatings, nail polishes, and flexible adhesives.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate HEA 818-61-1 Fast-reacting acrylate; used in waterborne emulsions for textiles, paper coatings, and pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Hydroxypropyl Acrylate HPA 25584-83-2 Dual-functional for UV-curable systems; enhances adhesion and elasticity in sealants, wood finishes, and personal care thickeners.

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