[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, butyl methacrylate prices.

PROPERTIES OF BUTYL METHACRYLATE

Butyl methacrylate (Methacrylate, referred to as BMA) is an organic compound, the chemical formula is C8H14O2. It is an ester formed by the reaction of methacrylic acid and butanol. BMA is a colorless liquid with a slightly aromatic odor. It has a density of about 0.9g/cm³, a boiling point of 162°C, a melting point of -64°C, and a flash point of 50°C. BMA has low water solubility, but it can be miscible with most organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, benzene, etc. Its molecular structure contains a methacrylic acid group and a butyl group, so that it has a high reactivity, easy to participate in the polymerization reaction, the formation of excellent performance of polymer materials.

Butyl methacrylate use

Butyl methacrylate is widely used in chemical industry. It is mainly used for the preparation of methacrylic ester polymers, which are widely used in coatings, adhesives, textile auxiliaries, leather treatment agents, etc. Due to its excellent transparency and UV resistance, BMA is often used in the production of optical materials and weather-resistant plastics. BMA also has important applications in the preparation of resins, especially for the production of acrylic resins and copolymers, which exhibit excellent adhesion, gloss and durability in architectural coatings, automotive paints, paper coating, etc.

Butyl methacrylate upstream and downstream raw materials

The production of butyl methacrylate involves a series of upstream and downstream feedstocks. The upstream feed mainly comprises methacrylic acid and butanol. Methacrylic acid (Methacrylic Acid, abbreviated MAA) is produced by the oxidation of isobutylene or tert-butanol, while butanol is usually produced by the synthesis gas route or ethylene hydrogenation process in petrochemical processes. In the reaction of methacrylic acid and butanol to form butyl methacrylate, an acidic catalyst such as sulfuric acid is often used to improve the reaction efficiency and yield.

Downstream products include various methacrylate polymers and copolymers. Butyl methacrylate can be copolymerized with other monomers such as styrene and methyl methacrylate to produce polymer materials with different properties. These downstream products are widely used in plastics, rubber, coatings, textiles, leather and other industries to meet the needs of various industrial production.

Butyl methacrylate storage method

Because butyl methacrylate is a flammable liquid, and has a certain degree of volatility and toxicity, special attention should be paid to safety during storage and handling. BMA should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment to prevent its thermal decomposition or polymerization reaction. The storage containers shall be fire-proof and corrosion-proof closed containers, such as stainless steel or special plastic containers, to avoid contact with oxidants and acids.

In the process of transportation, should comply with the relevant provisions of the transport of dangerous goods, the use of special means of transport, and posted a clear identification of dangerous goods. Operators should wear protective equipment such as gloves, goggles and protective clothing to avoid direct skin contact and vapor inhalation. The storage area should be equipped with appropriate fire fighting equipment, such as dry powder fire extinguishers, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, etc., to deal with possible fire accidents.

Environment and safety

The use and production of butyl methacrylate involves certain environmental and safety risks. Its vapors are irritating to the respiratory system and skin, and prolonged exposure may cause health problems. Therefore, in the process of production and use, we must strictly abide by the safety operation procedures to ensure good ventilation and personal protection. Abandoned BMA and wastewater containing BMA should be properly treated to avoid direct discharge to the environment to prevent pollution.

Market analysis and development trend

The butyl methacrylate market is affected by a number of factors, including raw material prices, downstream demand, technological advances and environmental regulations. In recent years, with the improvement of environmental protection requirements and the development of new material technology, the application field of methacrylic ester polymers has been expanding, and the market demand has shown an upward trend. Especially in the field of green environmental protection coatings, high-performance adhesives and functional textiles, the demand for BMA is particularly obvious.

In the future, with the continuous advancement of technology and the optimization of production processes, the production cost of BMA is expected to be further reduced. With the utilization of renewable resources and the development of green chemical technology, the production of BMA will develop in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable direction. This will provide new opportunities and impetus for the market expansion of butyl methacrylate and its downstream products.

Conclusion

As an important organic chemical raw material, butyl methacrylate has broad application prospects and market potential. Its excellent physical and chemical properties make it widely used in various industrial fields. With the development of environmental protection and technology, the production and application of BMA will continue to be optimized, bringing more development opportunities and challenges to the chemical industry. Effective storage and disposal measures, as well as strict environmental and safety management, will be the key to ensure its sustainable development.