What Is Acrylic Acid (AA) and How Is It Used in Industrial Applications?
Technical Introduction
Acrylic Acid (AA) is a colorless, corrosive liquid with a sharp, acrid odor. It contains a vinyl group and a carboxylic acid group, making it a highly reactive monomer widely used in polymer synthesis. The vinyl group enables rapid free-radical polymerization, while the acid group imparts hydrophilicity and reactivity for crosslinking and copolymerization. Acrylic acid is a fundamental building block in the production of superabsorbent polymers, adhesives, coatings, and paints.
Applications
Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP): Used in diapers, hygiene products, and agriculture for water retention.
Adhesives: Provides tackiness and bonding strength in pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Coatings and Paints: Improves adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance.
Textile Finishing: Enhances hydrophilicity and dye uptake.
Water Treatment: Used in flocculants and scale inhibitors.
Plastics and Rubber: Serves as a comonomer to modify mechanical properties.
Advantages
High Reactivity: Enables efficient polymerization under mild conditions.
Hydrophilic Nature: Enhances water absorption and compatibility.
Versatile Copolymerization: Compatible with many monomers for tailored properties.
Improves Adhesion: Carboxyl groups facilitate strong bonding to substrates.
Cost-Effective: Widely available and economical raw material.
Specifications (Typical Parameters)
| Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Physical state | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Purity | Content of AA | ≥ 99% |
| Acid Value | Free acid content | ≥ 99% (as acrylic acid) |
| Density (25°C) | Mass per volume | 1.05 - 1.07 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | Temperature at atmospheric pressure | 141°C |
| Viscosity (25°C) | Flow property | 6 - 12 mPa·s |
| Refractive Index | Optical property | 1.435 - 1.440 |
FAQ
Q1: What polymerization methods are used for acrylic acid?
A: Free radical polymerization is most common, often in aqueous or solution systems.
Q2: Can acrylic acid be copolymerized with other monomers?
A: Yes, it is widely copolymerized with acrylates, methacrylates, and styrene to tailor properties.
Q3: What safety precautions are necessary when handling acrylic acid?
A: Acrylic acid is corrosive; use protective gloves, goggles, and work in a well-ventilated area.
Q4: Is acrylic acid biodegradable?
A: Acrylic acid is biodegradable under aerobic conditions but requires proper treatment.
Q5: What industries primarily use acrylic acid?
A: Key industries include hygiene products, coatings, adhesives, textiles, and water treatment.
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