Acrylic Acid

Acrylic Acid is a colorless, liquid organic compound with a characteristic pungent odor. It belongs to the family of carboxylic acids and has a vinyl group attached to a carboxyl group, which makes it highly reactive and useful in polymerization reactions.

Chemical Properties:

• Chemical Formula: C₃H₄O₂ (CH₂=CHCOOH)
• Molecular Weight: 72.06 g/mol
• Density: 1.051 g/cm³
• Boiling Point: 141°C (286°F)
• Melting Point: 13°C (55°F)
• Vapor Pressure: 3.7 mmHg at 20°C
• Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, and most organic solvents.

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Strong, pungent, and acrid odor
• pH: Acidic due to the carboxyl group (-COOH)

Reactivity:

Acrylic acid is highly reactive due to the presence of both the carboxylic group (-COOH) and the vinyl group (-CH=CH₂). It can easily undergo polymerization and copolymerization to form polymers and other derivatives.

Common Uses:

1. Polymer Manufacturing:
   • Acrylic acid is widely used in the production of polymers, including polyacrylic acid and acrylate polymers.
   • These polymers are used in a range of products like superabsorbent polymers (e.g., in diapers), coatings, paints, adhesives, sealants, and plastics.
2. Chemical Intermediate:
   • It is used as a starting material to produce various derivatives such as acrylates, methacrylates, and esters, which are widely employed in the production of plastics, resins, and adhesives.
3. Textile and Leather Industry:
   • Acrylic acid and its derivatives are used as finishing agents in textiles and leather to improve softness, elasticity, and water resistance.
4. Water Treatment:
   • Acrylic acid is used in water treatment chemicals to produce dispersants, scale inhibitors, and anti-corrosion agents.
5. Adhesives and Sealants:
   • Acrylic acid is a key component in the production of adhesives and sealants, especially for those used in construction and packaging industries.

Health and Safety Considerations:

• Toxicity: Acrylic acid is harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.
• Flammability: It is flammable and should be handled with care in well-ventilated areas.
• Polymerization: Acrylic acid can polymerize spontaneously if not stabilized, so it is often supplied with an inhibitor to prevent uncontrolled polymerization.

Storage and Handling:

• Storage: Acrylic acid should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition and direct sunlight.
• Handling: Protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection should be used when handling acrylic acid due to its corrosive nature and potential health hazards.