The Versatility of Acrylate Monomers: Applications Across Industries
Acrylate monomers are one of the most important and most versatile groups of monomers in the development of coatings. They serve as the foundation for the polymers that optimize paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and much more, and can be found across a wide range of industries as a result.
The basic chemistry acrylate monomers?
Acrylate monomers are typically a type of ester, a compound derived from an organic or inorganic acid where the hydrogen atom of one of the acidic groups is replaced by an organyl group, changing its properties. These monomers contain vinyl groups, which have a large effect on the reactivity of the monomer, allowing it to go through polymerization.
The main benefit of acrylate monomers however is found in how their chemical structures can be tailored for specific properties. Just a small change in the structure, like the addition of a methyl group, can entirely alter the performance of the resulting polymer. Because of this, acrylate monomers are the building blocks for many different acrylic polymers and emulsions used in the coatings industry.
The versatility of acrylate monomers
Since formulators are able to adjust the monomers for specific properties, acrylate monomers are used in the development of a wide range of polymer additives. They can be adjusted to be more rigid or flexible, ionic or nonionic, functionalized or non-functionalized, or to fulfill hydrophobic or hydrophilic functions, glass transition temperature, weathering and sunlight resistance, and much more. Combining the different monomers can offer significantly different properties for the end-use paints and coatings.
Some acrylate monomers can also be used to develop cross linking and self-crosslinking polymers. Crosslinking polymers impart high stability and resistance to coatings, strengthening and improving their resistance to fluids, stress, and high temperatures.
Acrylate monomers have a wide range of applications thanks to their versatility. Some of the most common uses include:
- Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives
- Caulks and Sealants
- Paints and Printing Inks
- Exterior and Interior Coatings
Certain formulations have also found use in powder coatings, glazing, and textiles.
About Gellner Industrial
Gellner Industrial is the premiere manufacturer of water-based acrylic emulsions and resins, with over forty years of industry experience in developing products for paints, industrial coatings, printing inks, wood coatings, pigment grinding, and more. Check out our website to view our full product directory of acrylic resins.
