868-77-9

CAS Nr.:

868-77-9

2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate

EINECS Name:

2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate

212-782-2

EINECS Nr.:

212-782-2

HEMA / 2-Hydroxyethylmethacrylat / Methacrylsäure-2-hydroxyethylester / Glycolmethacrylat / Ethylene glycol methacrylate

Synonym:

HEMA / 2-Hydroxyethylmethacrylat / Methacrylsäure-2-hydroxyethylester / Glycolmethacrylat / Ethylene glycol methacrylate

Physical Properties of Hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA)

Hydroxyethylmethacrylate, commonly known as HEMA and identified by CAS number 868-77-9, is a versatile chemical raw material. It is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a faint, characteristic odor. HEMA has a melting point of -12°C and a boiling point of 95°C at 15 mmHg. With a density of about 1.07 g/cm³ at 20°C and a viscosity of 5-10 mPa·s, HEMA is well-soluble in water and various organic solvents. These properties make it a valuable monomer in polymerization, especially due to its reactive methacrylate group and hydrophilic hydroxyl group.

Applications of Hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA)

One of the most well-known applications of HEMA is the production of soft contact lenses. Due to its hydrophilic nature, HEMA can absorb and retain water, keeping the contact lenses soft and comfortable for the wearer. These properties enhance oxygen permeability, ensuring higher comfort and better eye compatibility.

HEMA is frequently used in the production of adhesives and coatings. Its ability to form strong bonds with various substrates makes it ideal for industrial and medical adhesives. In coatings, HEMA improves adhesion and resistance to water and chemicals, resulting in durable and resilient surfaces.

In dentistry, HEMA plays a crucial role in the manufacture of dental fillings, sealants, and bonding agents. Thanks to its biocompatible and hydrophilic properties, HEMA enhances the adhesion of filling materials to the tooth surface, ensuring longer-lasting and more effective dental products.

HEMA is also used in the production of specialized resins and plastics. These materials find applications in various fields, from medical devices to optical lenses and coatings. The reactive groups in HEMA allow for easy polymerization, resulting in strong and stable materials.

Hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA, CAS No. 868-77-9) is a versatile chemical raw material with excellent physical properties. Its broad applicability ranges from contact lenses to adhesives and coatings, dental materials, and specialized resins. The unique properties of HEMA make it an indispensable component in many industrial and medical applications.