Methyl methacrylate

Not to be confused with methyl acrylate

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Chemical compound

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is an organic compound with the formula CH2=C(CH3)COOCH3. This colorless liquid, the methyl ester of methacrylic acid (MAA), is a monomer produced on a large scale for the production of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA).

History

MMA was discovered by Bernhard Tollens and his student W. A. Caspary, who noticed and described its tendency to change into a clear, hard, transparent substance especially in sunlight. Studies on acrylic esters gradually advanced until Staudinger's theory of macromolecules and his research into the nature of polyacrylates allowed for better control over polymerization. Company Rohm and Haas, founded by German chemist Otto Röhm, investigated the topic for three decades and finally began its industrial production in the early 20th century.

Production and properties

Given the scale of production, many methods have been developed starting from diverse two- to four-carbon precursors. Two principal routes appear to be commonly practiced.

Cyanohydrin route

The principal route starts with the condensation of acetone and hydrogen cyanide, leading to the formation of acetone cyanohydrin, which is then hydrolyzed to methyl methacrylate.

Methyl propionate routes

This process begins with the carboalkoxylation of ethylene to form methyl propionate, which is then condensed with formaldehyde to produce MMA. An Alpha MMA plant in Singapore utilizing this method has proven to be cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Other routes to MMA

Various other processes exist for MMA production, including routes via propionaldehyde and isobutyric acid. For instance, the methyl acetylene method developed by Shell can produce MMA with remarkably higher yields in a single step reaction.

Uses

The principal application, consuming approximately 75% of the MMA, is in the manufacture of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and for co-polymers such as methyl methacrylate-butadiene-styrene (MBS). MMA is also used in orthopedic applications as cement for bone implants.

Environmental issues and health hazards

Methyl methacrylate has been noted for acute toxicity; its LD50 is 7-10 g/kg (oral, rat). It can cause irritation to eyes and skin, and workers in industries using MMA are at risk of skin sensitization.

What to Know and How to Know if Your Local Nail Salon is ...

Methyl methacrylate, or MMA, is commonly used as a bonding agent in artificial nail products, enabling faster setting and stronger adherence compared to alternatives. Unfortunately, exposure has been associated with adverse health effects, prompting regulatory scrutiny.

MMA is cheaper than other agents, but alternatives like Ethyl Methacrylate (EMA) are now more commonly used. Consumers should remain vigilant about products containing MMA due to potential risks.

If you suspect a salon is using MMA, it’s advisable to file a complaint with local authorities.

For further inquiries and detailed support regarding production technologies, please visit MMA Plant and MEG Plant.