Acrylic Acid, CAS No. : 79-10-7

Acrylic acid is a colorless or slightly yellow liquid with a pungent, acrid odor. Its chemical formula is C₃H₄O₂, and it is an unsaturated carboxylic acid with a double bond between the first two carbon atoms. Acrylic acid is used primarily in the production of superabsorbent polymers and various other polymeric materials.

Here are some key points about acrylic acid:

1. Uses:

   - Polymers: Acrylic acid is a key monomer in the production of polyacrylic acid and its salts, which are used in products like diapers, adult incontinence products, and other absorbent materials.

   - Coatings and Adhesives: It's used to make resins for coatings, paints, and adhesives.

   - Textiles: Acrylic acid is used in textile manufacturing to improve properties like wrinkle resistance and colorfastness.

2. Production:

   - It’s typically produced from propylene through the process of oxidation. The industrial process involves converting propylene to acrolein and then to acrylic acid.

3. Reactivity:

   - Acrylic acid is highly reactive due to its double bond and carboxyl group, making it useful in various polymerization reactions. However, it is also quite corrosive and can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

4. Safety:

   - Acrylic acid should be handled with care. It is a hazardous substance that can cause severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Proper safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adequate ventilation, are essential when working with it.