Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Product Profile

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Names
Preferred IUPAC name2-hydroxyethyl prop-2-enoate
Other names2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate
Hydroxyethylester kyseliny akrylove
Hydroxyethyl acrylic acid ester
Acrylic acid hydroxyethyl ester
2-Propenoic acid, 2-hydroxyethyl ester
Pronunciation/haɪˌdrɒksiˈɛθəl əˈkraɪleɪt/
Identifiers
CAS Number818-61-1
Beilstein Reference1721441
ChEBICHEBI:53004
ChEMBLCHEMBL1595977
ChemSpider54677
DrugBankDB16651
ECHA InfoCard03c51b08-1f95-4360-bd6c-694c8a4d4381
EC Number212-454-9
Gmelin Reference103424
KEGGC19602
MeSHD08.811.682.047.590
PubChem CID7818
RTECS numberAF2275000
UNIIQX6XEZ976W
UN numberUN2529
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)DTXSID5020820
Properties
Chemical formulaC5H8O3
Molar mass116.12 g/mol
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
OdorCharacteristic
Density1.10 g/cm3
Solubility in waterMiscible
log P-0.38
Vapor pressure0.08 mmHg (20 °C)
Acidity (pKa)13.2
Basicity (pKb)14.39
Magnetic susceptibility (χ)-7.59×10⁻⁶
Refractive index (nD)1.446
Viscosity5-15 mPa.s (25°C)
Dipole moment2.86 D
Thermochemistry
Std molar entropy (S⦵298)276.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹
Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298)-589.0 kJ/mol
Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298)-2168 kJ/mol
Pharmacology
ATC codeV04CX
Hazards
GHS labellingGHS02, GHS05, GHS07
PictogramsGHS02,GHS05
Signal wordDanger
Hazard statementsH302, H315, H317, H319, H332, H412
Precautionary statementsP210, P233, P240, P242, P243, P261, P264, P272, P273, P280, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P305+P351+P338, P312, P333+P313, P337+P313, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P501
NFPA 704 (fire diamond)2-2-2-Health
Flash point100 °C
Autoignition temperature'250°C (482°F)'
Lethal dose or concentrationLD50 (oral, rat): 1020 mg/kg
LD50 (median dose)LD50 (median dose): Oral rat 1020 mg/kg
NIOSHAS3415000
PEL (Permissible)PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate: "No specific OSHA PEL established
REL (Recommended)130 kg
IDLH (Immediate danger)No IDLH established.
Related compounds
Related compoundsAcrylic acid
Methacrylic acid
Ethyl acrylate
2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate
Methyl acrylate

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate: Chemical ID, CAS, Formula, and HS Code Database

Product Identification

Property Manufacturer’s Commentary
Product Name Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
IUPAC Name 2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate
Chemical Formula C5H8O3
Synonyms & Trade Names This molecule appears in technical documents under several synonyms. Most commercial grade supplied to coatings, adhesives, and resin formulators is referenced as HEA. Trade names show variation by region and supplier, with no globally harmonized commercial brand standing out, but most manufacturers use “HEA (Hydroxyethyl Acrylate)” or the full chemical name in shipping and compliance documentation.
CAS Number 818-61-1
HS Code & Customs Classification Input/output records for customs typically reference 2916.12 under the Harmonized System. As the finished intermediate meets the acrylic ester function set, both international sales and cross-border movement fall under this code. Documentation backup relies on product composition, which can require additional disclosure when grades contain stabilizers or performance modifiers. Product identification requires precise customs declaration to avoid regulatory delay, especially for polymer-grade and ultra-low monomer content shipments.

Industrial Production and Quality Control Commentary

Hydroxyethyl acrylate is obtained via esterification of acrylic acid with ethylene oxide or by direct reaction with ethylene glycol, depending on the route and cost base of raw materials. Batch selection aligns with purity grades required in high-performance coatings, UV-curable materials, and specialty adhesives. Selection of acrylic acid source, and type and grade of ethylene oxide, sets the baseline impurity profile—residual monomers and color bodies are removed downstream.

Oligomer, residual acid, and aldehyde contents arise based on plant design and process control—continuous versus batch processes manage potential hot spots for undesired polymerization or hydrolysis. Stabilizers (such as MEHQ or phenolics) are added at precise points to arrest autopolymerization, especially for storage or transportation in warmer climates. Batch traceability and in-process controls, such as acidity titration and GC area normalization for purity, address batch-to-batch consistency. Final product release depends on customer spec for color, inhibitor need, and acrylic monomer content, especially for applications sensitive to polymer chain length variations.

Downstream application dictates specifics — UV-curable resins require ultra-low ash and ionics, while pressure-sensitive adhesives tolerate wider inhibitor spec but demand control of hydroxyethyl content for formulation stability. Shelf conditions, drum material, and vapor-phase inhibitor management are driven by local temperature and customer processing methods.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate: Technical Properties, Manufacturing Process & Safety Guidelines

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State & Appearance

In factory conditions, hydroxyethyl acrylate presents as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid. Odor can range from faintly sweet to sharp acrylate-like depending on raw material grade and residual monomer content. There is no absolute melting point as the product remains liquid under normal storage; crystallization will only begin at sub-zero temperatures specific to each batch, with commercial forms not intended for freeze-thaw cycling.

Boiling point readings fluctuate along with purity, moisture content, and stabilizer additives—parameters set during the specification agreement stage. Flash point is similarly linked to inhibitor presence, primarily MEHQ, and must be confirmed per lot especially for bulk storage. Density measurements and viscosity can be application-specific, influenced by residual solvent, water, or byproduct levels.

Chemical Stability & Reactivity

Hydroxyethyl acrylate requires continuous monitoring of stabilized state. Under industrial conditions, self-polymerization risk becomes pronounced if oxygen exclusion or inhibitor content drops. Stability depends on both container atmosphere and duration from production; reactivity toward bases, peroxides, and UV is recognized by all production teams. Polymerization controls remain an operational focus, particularly during high-throughput campaigns.

Solubility & Solution Preparation

Technical formulations utilize the product’s full water miscibility as a design parameter. In prepping blends, water content must be measured against desired reaction rates; unintended dilution affects curing targets in emulsion grades. Mixing rates, order of addition, and pH all influence quality outcomes, with solution clarity and stability tracked over short and medium timelines to predict downstream performance.

Technical Specifications & Quality Parameters

Specification Table by Grade

Our production recognizes that hydroxyethyl acrylate specifications depend on intended application—coatings, adhesives, or reactive diluents. Purity levels, inhibitor types, color thresholds, and water content all shift according to contract. Detailed specifications align with customer demand and regional regulation.

Impurity Profile & Limits

Impurities originate from unreacted starting materials, secondary alcohol acrylates, oligomeric fractions, and byproducts from storage or handling. Routine batches include screening for acrylic acid, ethylene glycol derivatives, and stabilization residues. Upper impurity limits for color, acidity, and residual monomer depend directly on downstream process needs and regulatory guidance.

Test Methods & Standards

QA sampling uses titrimetric analysis for acid value, GC or HPLC for monomer purity, and spectrophotometric methods for color and stabilizer content. Each parameter aligns with internal or international standards specified in technical agreements. Adopted methods are validated by our QC lab for detection sensitivity and repeatability.

Preparation Methods & Manufacturing Process

Raw Materials & Sourcing

Selection begins with high-purity acrylic acid and ethylene oxide or hydroxyethyl precursors. Raw material traceability and contaminant load directly guide supplier approval; regional requirements on residual impurities and sustainability aspects input into sourcing strategy.

Synthesis Route & Reaction Mechanism

The prevailing route relies on controlled esterification under catalyst, using excess hydroxyethyl feedstock to suppress unwanted diesters. Temperature control and reagent order prevent runaway exothermic activity. Continuous operation allows more consistent control over byproduct profile, which cleaner batch synthesis may not address for some grades.

Process Control & Purification

Key control points include water management, reaction time, and careful stabilizer dosing. Purification commonly involves distillation steps tailored for each commercial batch size, which remove light and heavy ends. Downstream filtration ensures removal of insoluble residue. Quality audits track batch-to-batch consistency, especially on color and monomer composition.

Quality Control & Batch Release

Final release follows established internal criteria for purity, moisture, color, and polymer content. Each campaign can have different tolerances based on customer specs. QC runs stability and aging studies to support shelf-life projections and application performance.

Chemical Reactions & Modification Potential

Typical Reactions

Hydroxyethyl acrylate functions as both an acrylate monomer and a functional alcohol in many polymerization environments. Addition and free-radical polymerization dominate end-use, with reactivity tuned by initiator type, UV or thermal systems, and process setup. Esterification and etherification reactions remain options for intermediate synthesis.

Reaction Conditions (Catalyst, Temperature, Solvent)

Process variations choose catalysts and temperatures based on downstream requirements for polymer architecture or crosslinking. Industrial processes tune initiator choice and inhibitor quenching to control molecular weight and product structure. Solvent use depends on viscosity management and specific coating or resin performance.

Derivatives & Downstream Products

Typical downstreams include specialty polymers, hydrogels, crosslinked networks, and surfactant intermediates. Modification potential lies in prepolymer preparation, copolymer synthesis, and functionalization, with product grade determining optimum process window.

Storage & Shelf Life

Storage Conditions

Industrial storage emphasizes temperature moderation, exclusion of UV, and oxygen for inhibitor maintenance. Tank construction must be compatible with acrylate reactivity, especially in long-term drum or bulk storage. Exposure to heat accelerates inhibitor depletion and increases polymerization risk.

Container Compatibility

Materials selected after testing compatibility with liquid monomer, including stainless steel, HDPE or internally coated drums. Valve and gasket choices prioritize resistance to acrylate permeation; all storage sites monitor headspace and venting arrangements.

Shelf Life & Degradation Signs

Service life correlates to inhibitor stability and absence of contaminant ingress. Viscosity rise, color change, and the presence of solid deposits signal excessive age or improper storage. Manufacturer testing supports product traceability for warranty and claims assessment.

Safety & Toxicity Profile

GHS Classification

Our shipments comply with current GHS criteria at the point of origin, including updated hazard pictograms and statements as regulations demand. The exact classification may vary depending on regional transport law and observance of residual monomer content and stabilizer concentration.

Hazard & Precautionary Statements

Processing and handling areas observe local exhaust, splash protection, and inert gas blanketing where necessary. Key operator focus involves preventing uncontrolled polymerization and skin or eye exposure; safety data sheets specify PPE and incident control measures for each application area.

Toxicity Data

Available acute and chronic toxicity data are referenced in every new project risk assessment; these reflect not only industrial handling risks but also environmental passage and wastewater treatment requirements. Application-specific risk profiles shape the final operational controls.

Exposure Limits & Handling

Air monitoring and periodic health reviews are central to worker protection. Engineering controls, ventilation specifications, and container transfer methods stay under regular review as industry best practices evolve. Safety guidelines are updated to reflect both workplace and product-use endpoints.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate: Supply Capacity, Commercial Terms & 2026 Price Trend Forecast

Supply Capacity & Commercial Terms

Production Capacity & Availability

In our operations, the output of Hydroxyethyl Acrylate (HEA) depends on annual maintenance schedules, feedstock reliability, and market demand cycles. The most consistent production relies on continuous process management, tight control over esterification reaction yields, and mitigation of polymerization risk. Interruptions typically track upstream disruptions in ethylene oxide and acrylic acid availability, not just internal mechanical downtime. Fluctuations in capacity allocation occur during contract negotiation periods with downstream users, especially for high-purity or electronics grades—these batches require longer production slots, advanced filtration, and more rigorous impurity controls.

Lead Time & Minimum Order Quantity

Standard packaging orders typically ship within 2-3 weeks of order confirmation, provided raw material logistics remain undisrupted. Lead times may extend during major feedstock shortages or on custom grade qualification runs. Minimum order quantity is determined by grade stability and drum-batch rationalization—in bulk packaging, batch blending enables larger lot sizes, while electronic or UV-specialty grade orders observe tighter batch segregation and lower MOQ. MOQ is periodically updated based on tank switching frequency and plant utilization metrics.

Packaging Options

Standard drum and IBC formats dominate for most industrial customers, with bulk ISO-tank shipments available for continuous-use operations. Packaging selection must reflect grade purity and downstream specifications—for example, monomer-stabilized grades require packaging with dedicated nitrogen blanketing and tamper-evident seals to avoid unwanted polymerization and/or contamination. Custom container purging and anti-static liners are available where specified, tracked via packaging batch documentation.

Shipping & Payment Terms

Shipping protocols prioritize temperature monitoring and secure loading; our logistics documentation supports various Incoterms as negotiated in contract. For higher purity or specialty grades, pre-shipment tank integrity and traceability compliance are non-negotiable. Payment terms are subject to credit evaluation, long-term customer history, and quarterly price indexation agreements, rather than a single static policy.

Pricing Structure & Influencing Factors

Interpretation of Raw Material Cost Composition

HEA cost structure traces directly to ethylene oxide and acrylic acid. Ethylene oxide pricing responds rapidly to crude oil volatility and regional plant outages. Acrylic acid costs track propylene index values and refinery cracker margins. In any given season, 65–80% of HEA’s production cost lies in these two streams, with utilities and labor contributing the remainder. Non-commodity cost factors, such as specialty inhibitor requirements or grade-specific purification, add variable overhead that shows up as grade-specific surcharges.

Raw Material Price Fluctuation Causes

Major volatility drivers include feedstock contract renegotiation, upstream plant reliability, international shipping delays, and regulatory interventions—especially regarding hazardous goods and emissions. For propylene and ethylene, both global oversupply and unplanned shutdowns in US Gulf Coast or Asian markets can spill over into regional HEA pricing within weeks.

Product Price Difference Explanation

Price differences stem from degree of purity, grade certification, packaging, and stability requirements. Commodity-grade HEA in standard drums follows the regional spot index, but electronics, UV-application, or pharmaceutical-intermediate grades demand process isolation, extra filtration, and impurity verification. Certified grades (ISO, GMP, or REACH-compliant) require full traceability, batch documentation, and additional laboratory lot release, increasing per-unit cost. Packaging itself drives cost differentiation—for example, bulk tank shipments realize scale cost savings, but only where continuous-use customer infrastructure is in place.

Global Market Analysis & Price Trends

Global Supply & Demand Overview

Allocation patterns for HEA link to demand from coatings, adhesives, and specialty resin manufacturers. Surges in Asian consumption have at times shifted trade flows, driving periodic scarcity in EU and US spot markets. Production capacity expansions in China can balance supply cycles, but supply shortfalls in feedstock or logistics bottlenecks rapidly affect contract allocations globally.

Key Economies Analysis

Region Key Factors Market Impact
US Domestic ethylene oxide; hurricane/disaster disruptions; long-term contracts dominant Stable for contract lots, volatile for spot demand surges
EU Propylene supply, emissions controls, strong regulatory pressure Index-linked pricing; compliance-driven grade differentiation
JP Import dependence; niche electronics and UV-grade demand Higher premium for high-purity, extensive supplier audits
IN Growth in coatings and adhesives; evolving regulatory landscape Import-driven price trends with regional supply gaps
CN Rapid capacity build, local demand surges, centralized procurement policy Pace of new plant commissioning and logistics capacity sets regional pricing floor

2026 Price Trend Forecast

Looking to 2026, supply-demand balance hinges on upstream ethylene and acrylic acid feedstock expansion, global plant reliability, and regulatory shifts regarding hazardous chemical trading. If projected downstream demand from specialty resins and adhesives follows forecasted growth, expect ongoing grade-differentiation in pricing structures—particularly for certified high-purity batches. Structural price resistance could emerge in regions with persistent feedstock infrastructure constraints or regulatory interventions on emissions and transportation.

Data Sources & Methodology

Price forecasting references industry consortium data, trade association quarterly reports, and internal feedstock purchasing analytics. We track parent company procurement data, regional feedstock cost indices, and peer-reviewed supply chain analysis to validate market observations.

Industry News & Regulatory Updates

Recent Market Developments

Feedstock contract renegotiations have kept near-term pricing volatile. Specific expansions in Asia have come online, but logistics bottlenecks and periodic export controls buffet the market. Demand signals from North America’s coatings industry remain steady; spikes often coincide with seasonal upticks in construction and infrastructure activity.

Regulatory Compliance Updates

Ongoing REACH revision and US TSCA scrutiny of acrylate monomers result in evolving supply chain documentation standards and batch segregation practices, particularly for products slated for electronics, medical device, or EU-bound downstream use. Regulatory audits and compliance recertification timelines directly affect shipment clearance—non-compliance triggers batch quarantines or recalls, hence strict in-plant documentation controls.

Supplier Response & Mitigation

In this context, manufacturers shift procurement windows, hedge feedstock purchases, and increase batch traceability audits. Process improvements target impurity reduction, inhibitor efficiency, and tank turnover time. Investment in local tank farm capacity and on-site packaging integration help mitigate export and shipping delays. Technological improvements in upstream production routes track both cost efficiencies and emissions controls—these changes feed back into longer-term price setting and grade qualification for critical customer segments.

Application Fields & Grade Selection Guide: Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Industry Applications

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate (HEA) offers versatility for manufacturers focused on coatings, adhesives, resins, and specialty polymers. In coatings, formulators use HEA to enhance crosslinking and improve adhesion to various substrates. Adhesive producers rely on its reactivity with multiple resin systems, targeting higher bond strength and final product durability. For acrylic resins and hydrogels, HEA helps control hydrophilicity, polymer backbone flexibility, and copolymer compatibility. Each segment values different impurity profiles and stability parameters according to end-product requirements, so grade selection closely aligns with downstream process controls.

Grade-to-Application Mapping

Application Commonly Used Grades Critical Selection Criteria
Industrial Coatings High-purity, low-inhibitor Low color, stable reactivity, low residual acid
Automotive/Metal Finishes Ultra-low trace metals Minimal metal ion content, strict moisture control
Adhesives & Sealants General industrial grade Controlled viscosity, manageable peroxide content
Hydrogels, Superabsorbents Cosmetic/intermediate-purity Low residual monomer, guaranteed by-package stability
Specialty Polymers Custom, application-matched Bespoke impurity/oligomer specification

Key Parameters by Application

Technical teams focus on three core factors: product purity, inhibitor type and dosage level, and trace contaminant profile. Coating and resin production often require very low color numbers and tightly controlled peroxide concentrations. The presence of residual acids or aldehydes raises polymerization risks or can lead to batch rejections in high-end film or medical hydrogel manufacturing. Each property interacts with storage, process safety, and downstream reactivity, so specifying critical levels at purchasing prevents later line downtime or compounding issues.

How to Select the Right Grade

Step 1: Define Application

Begin by clarifying industrial use. Are you formulating a UV-curable coating, pressure-sensitive adhesive, or a monomer blend for water-absorbing gels? The functional demands—adhesion, flexibility, cure behavior—guide the initial grade shortlist. Coaters with strict film clarity or hydrogels subjected to skin contact will filter out broad industrial grades.

Step 2: Identify Regulatory Requirements

Adhesive and medical polymer users often handle regional or client-imposed purity and toxicology compliance, such as certain residual monomer or heavy metal thresholds. Defining these at the start prevents project delays. Some applications—such as food packaging or biomedical—require evidence of compliance with specific chemical inventories or migration standards, adjusting both raw material sourcing and batch release practices.

Step 3: Evaluate Purity Needs

Pure grades target demanding formulations—low odor, high clarity, and reproducible reactivity. Lower-purity grades fit where downstream purification or blending is routine. Inspect both the stated range of major and trace impurities—peroxide, aldehyde, chloride, and solvent residues. If product stability or reactivity drift occurred in past runs, technical support can match your in-process specification to optimal plant batch and storage procedures.

Step 4: Consider Volume & Budget

Batch size impacts cost optimization and sourcing route. High-throughput users often benefit from bulk drum or isotank supply, with negotiated impurity control tailored to larger batch consistency expectations. Niche or specialty lines work better with lot-specific certificates of analysis and tighter picking for application-matched purity.

Step 5: Request Sample for Validation

Selecting a grade always benefits from lab or pilot-scale validation. Technical support provides not only retained QC samples but historic data on viscosity, color, and long-term storage stability for the specific manufacturing route. Customers can request samples reflecting the full specification range, from standard to customized grade lines, comparing process and downstream performance before locking in procurement commitments.

Trust & Compliance: Quality Certifications & Procurement Support for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Quality Compliance & Certifications

Quality Management Certifications

Quality management practices for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate draw on strictly defined internal protocols and third-party oversight. Our plants operate on an audited foundation—ISO 9001 management certification forms the baseline. Each unit maintains periodic compliance reviews, with corrective tracking across incoming raw materials, storage, and outloading. Inspection frequencies and record-keeping requirements adjust depending on both batch size and grade specification. Internal audits focus on process reproducibility and traceability, not paperwork alone.

Product-Specific Certifications

Certifications relating to Hydroxyethyl Acrylate are supplied to address region-specific regulatory demands and customer qualification programs. Reach/TSCA status, Kosher or Halal recognition, or other required attestation is confirmed by analytic testing matched with supply chain transparency. All declarations originate from documented production lots—no generic or blanket statements. Each certification file references the actual batch, relevant process conditions, and, if necessary, additional filtration or reprocessing steps taken to meet a particular segment or downstream use.

Documentation & Reports

All documentation linked to Hydroxyethyl Acrylate production includes batch Certificates of Analysis, impurity profiles, and traceability logs. Release documentation lists test methods referenced to recognized standards wherever available, but always discloses the method actually used for a given analytical result. Reports on compliance with regulatory listings, food contact status (if requested), and process change notices are periodically updated and available for audit customers. Document retention follows the stricter of customer or regulatory requirements.

Purchase Cooperation Instructions

Stable Production Capacity Supply and Flexible Business Cooperation Plan

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate production draws on established core reactor trains sized according to historical loading patterns and forecast customer uptake. Safety stock levels are set based on prior drawdown, agreed reorder points, and seasonal trends in key customer markets. Expedited batch allocation and capacity extension options can be reviewed for customers with documented fixed order frameworks or rapid response needs. Cooperative agreements—volume-based, campaign-based, or rolling commitment—are structured to match both firm and variable demand profiles.

Core Production Capacity and Stable Supply Capability

Supply reliability stems from direct raw material contracts covering main monomers and initiators, combined with on-site purification beds and emergency utilities contingency plans. Buffer storage of intermediate stock and finished product tanks are scaled to sustain delivery even under upstream feedstock disturbances. In regions with logistical or customs unpredictability, staggered shipments and hub inventory strategies are available by agreement.

Sample Application Process

Technical sampling for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate initiates upon customer disclosure of intended use and critical contaminant restrictions. Samples are drawn from validated production lots after passing the relevant QC matrix for the stated application. Analytical data, MSDS, and any interim special handling instructions accompany the shipment. Follow-up technical support remains available through the sample evaluation phase and into initial scale-up if requested.

Detailed Explanation of Flexible Cooperation Mode

Business flexibility is defined by contract structure: fixed pricing, formula-indexed, or dual-source backup as required. Batch size, packaging type, and shipment intervals are customized per customer demand profile, subject to feasibility review with production planning and logistics teams. For product grades tied to end-market compliance (e.g., high-purity, low-residue, or specific inhibitor content), cooperation often includes running pilot lots, supplementary documentation, and agreed specification amendments. Change notification systems and real-time production updates support partners operating under audited supply models.

Market Forecast & Technical Support System for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Research & Development Trends

Current R&D Hotspots

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate (HEA) remains a focal point in high-performance acrylic polymers and copolymers manufacturing. Production teams are closely monitoring copolymer compatibility, cured film flexibility, and low-VOC trends, especially for advanced waterborne coatings and high-solids resin systems. R&D labs in the chemical sector now devote increasing resources to the design of HEA-based crosslinking agents and improving UV-curable formulations.

Emerging Applications

Demand has shifted towards HEA-modified acrylic emulsions for industrial coatings that push for fast curing and higher weather resistance. We observe strong technical interest from the adhesives sector, particularly in low-migration, high-adhesion systems for specialty laminates and flexible packaging. For electronics encapsulation and 3D printing resins, tailored copolymerization with HEA allows fine adjustments to hydrophilicity and adhesion without compromising system reactivity.

Technical Challenges & Breakthroughs

One persistent challenge has been side-reactions during storage, especially in humid climates. Manufacturers now focus on process control around inhibitor dosage and raw material moisture content. Another technical bottleneck is achieving low residual monomer, which is directly related to the polymerization pathway, reactor design, and purification methods. Application chemists have pursued breakthroughs in post-polymerization purification to reduce free acrylate content and secure downstream performance, particularly for sensitive medical or food packaging applications requiring ultra-low odor and extractables.

Future Outlook

Market Forecast (3-5 Years)

Market data suggests that coatings and adhesives will dominate HEA consumption, with double-digit compound growth projected in specialized sectors such as UV-curable coatings and advanced elastomers. Capacity expansions and process upgrades at major production plants are directly tied to regional shifts in environmental standards as well as stricter emissions controls for final formulated products. Supply chain stability for key raw materials such as ethylene oxide will continue to influence market development speed, with cost and security of supply acting as direct triggers for grade adjustment and formulation redesign at the manufacturer level.

Technological Evolution

Process intensification is shaping modern HEA production. There is a strategic shift from batch reactors to continuous and semi-batch operations to ensure safer handling of exothermic reactions and enhance impurity control. Process teams streamline purification workflows for improved batch-to-batch reproducibility, especially in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and electronics applications where off-spec material creates significant downstream risk. Adoption of inline analytics and digital process control has increased, which facilitates real-time impurity tracking and more precise grade segregation based on customer requirements.

Sustainability & Green Chemistry

Policy compliance and customer audits increasingly prioritize bio-derived feedstocks for acrylic production. Hydroxyethyl Acrylate manufactured with lower carbon footprint—using renewable ethylene oxide or green acrylic acid—now enters customer qualification pipelines in select regions. Process chemists actively substitute traditional thermal initiators for photoinitiators or redox systems in select production lines to reduce energy intensity. Waste stream treatment and recycling methods also attract R&D focus, with closed-loop recovery of unreacted monomer improving both plant safety and lifecycle emissions.

Technical Support & After-Sales Service

Technical Consultation

Dedicated technical staff with deep experience in polymerization mechanisms provide formulation and troubleshooting support for existing and new customers. We often advise on selection of inhibitor systems, optimal storage temperatures, and packaging types, especially for bulk logistic integration to minimize hydrolysis and prevent viscosity drift during long-haul delivery. Client-specific requirements for viscosity, color, and reactivity are managed through direct laboratory or pilot-scale verification before standard specification is set for ongoing supply.

Application Optimization Support

Production chemists work with application engineers to optimize dispersions, adhesion, and curing parameters once HEA grades are qualified for customer systems. For users dealing with complex copolymer networks, we provide on-site and remote technical assistance during upscaling from lab to full production, ensuring compatibility with other monomers and functional additives. Feedback from customer quality control teams guides continuous process improvement and grade refinement, especially for high-purity and high-reactivity end uses.

After-Sales Commitment

All HEA shipments undergo release testing according to internal quality plans that can be tailored by product batch, route, and customer end use. Our after-sales support includes rapid technical response for off-spec material, root cause analysis in collaboration with downstream quality teams, and ongoing monitoring of field performance in critical applications. Return, replacement, or adjustment policies are reviewed with each major customer as part of annual audits to align with evolving industrial standards and regulatory requirements.

Reliable Supply of Hydroxyethyl Acrylate from the Manufacturing Floor

At our plant, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate leaves the reactor under strict process supervision. Every batch reflects direct control over feedstock, polymerization conditions, and purification. This material, essential for industrial users, arrives with documented consistency in purity level, residual monomer, and controlled water content.

Consistent Output for Demanding Industrial Uses

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate anchors key processes in coatings, adhesives, and specialty resins. Manufacturers of waterborne and solvent-based paints depend on traceable purity. Producers of reactive monomer blends require predicable reactivity and minimal color for performance coatings and UV-curable formulations. Our oversight covers every detail – not just in-process controls, but also on-line monitoring of final product attributes such as acidity and inhibitor content.

Production Process Accountability

In the production hall, operators document every process variable. Temperature profiles and feed rates follow digital protocols. Finished batches move through filtration, dedicated tote staging, and final sampling before packaging. We keep full backtracking capability for every drum and IBC shipped. The packing line ensures drums are nitrogented and sealed to prevent unwanted polymerization in transit.

Packaging and Shipping Confidence

Packaging protocols keep material integrity from filling to final delivery. We offer Hydroxyethyl Acrylate in industry-standard 200 kg drums and 1,000 L IBCs, filled on antistatic lines, with tamper-evident seals. Each container ships tagged with batch data, production date, and inhibitor concentration where required by downstream curing systems. Dedicated logistics track timely shipment from loading docket to the end-user’s facility, with temperature guidance observed in hotter climates.

Technical Support Backed by Production Experience

Direct manufacturers must solve practical problems fast. Engineers and technical managers routinely engage with end users, giving support on storage stability, compatibility with acrylate and methacrylate copolymers, and guidance on formulation. Feedback from larger-scale applications feeds into process improvements. Practical advice comes directly from our production chemists—questions on settling, filtration, and viscosity management meet genuine field-proven answers.

Enhancing Business Value Across Supply Chains

Producers, procurement specialists, and industrial formulators see value in dependable sourcing. With our internal yield monitoring and accurate forecasting, production managers minimize unplanned downtime. Inventory managers rely on stable lead-times and predictable batch-to-batch properties. Our accountability allows manufacturers and distributors to streamline regulatory documentation, avoid excessive incoming QC, and plan inventory turns with confidence.

Supporting Growth in Industrial Chemistry

Demand for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate rises as production chains look for raw materials with verified origin and repeatable composition. We have expanded tank storage and improved bulk transfer systems to handle rising order volumes from coatings, elastomer, and sealant producers worldwide. Our plant has dedicated resources for special inhibitor-adjusted grades, delivered in full accordance with technical requirements for high-end applications in electronics and automotive coatings.

Conclusion

Direct production gives us clarity over quality, delivery, and cost structure. Partnering with us means working with a producer who stands behind every shipment and every analysis certificate issued from our lab. The factory floor informs every commitment to the client, supporting robust processes downstream in some of the world’s most demanding industrial applications.

Industrial FAQ

What is the typical molecular weight and purity of Hydroxyethyl Acrylate supplied for industrial applications?

Direct Experience in Manufacturing Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Producing hydroxyethyl acrylate takes close attention to raw material quality, precise reactor control, and consistent purification steps. Over years of manufacturing, our technical team has worked out reliable process parameters to achieve stable purity and molecular attributes that downstream formulators can expect for demanding industrial coatings, adhesives, and polymers.

Molecular Weight Characteristics

Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) is a monomer, not a polymer. Its molecular weight comes directly from its chemical structure — C5H8O3 — which calculates to about 116.12 g/mol. For monomers, this value is fixed, as there’s no molecular weight distribution as seen in polymer batches. What matters more to formulators is the absence of oligomers, byproducts, or higher molecular weight impurities. Our continuous monitoring systems focus on keeping these at a minimum, flagged by strict in-process controls and post-reaction analyses.

Purity Levels and Their Industrial Importance

Industrial customers know that residual impurities in monomers like HEA can influence downstream reactivity, product color, and performance. Our manufacturing line standardizes purity for bulk shipments at or above 96%, measured by GC analysis. Color and acidity receive equal attention, as low acid and color reduce the risk of unwanted side reactions during polymerization. Stabilizers, typically MEHQ, get blended in at controlled concentrations to ensure safe storage and shipment. This attention to stabilizer addition avoids runaway polymerization during transit.

End-use applications in UV-cured coatings and high-performance resins are highly sensitive to minor shifts in raw material purity. Over the years, we have engaged directly with customers’ technical teams to discuss adjustments for acetaldehyde and acrylic acid residue, which, even at less than 1%, can impact optical clarity or adhesion performance. Purity verification forms part of every batch release from our site, with full COA transparency.

Challenges and Solutions in Maintaining Quality

Unexpected contamination and moisture ingress remain two of the biggest risks during storage and handling. Our plant avoids these pitfalls by using closed-loop tanker loading, nitrogen blanketing, and continuous tankage monitoring. Moisture pickup leads to hydrolysis, causing color or acid number drift, so we check every bulk tank and intermediate storage vessel for humidity and oxygen.

Batch-to-batch consistency builds trust between manufacturer and end user. Our production lines run with automated feedback controls to manage temperature and feeding rates, minimizing byproduct formation at every stage. In-process GC and Karl Fischer titration deliver fast results, so operators can detect deviations before final packaging. This practice minimizes customer complaints and cuts risk for formulators managing tight specifications.

Supporting Industrial Users

New applications often demand even tighter impurity profiles. Our technical team works directly with industrial laboratories to support new grades for UV-LED curing or low-VOC coatings. Routine audits and process reviews help us identify even minor trends in color or acid number, which can surface with seasonal or raw material changes. We provide detailed lot documentation and can customize specifications following technical review.

Reliable HEA supply demands vigilance at every phase — from bulk synthesis through packaging. Our factory-direct approach and technical skills ensure our customers receive a monomer they can use with confidence, batch after batch.

Can you provide details on available packaging sizes, minimum order quantity, and lead time for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate?

Looking Beyond the Label: How We Structure Our Packaging

Through years of serving industrial clients, our approach to Hydroxyethyl Acrylate packaging reflects what actually works in operational settings. Bulk users typically prefer this material ready in 200 kg net drums or in 1,000 kg IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) totes. We continue to invest in safe drum lining, UV-resistant extenders, and robust palletizing to manage the risks of this acrylate's humidity and light sensitivity. On rare occasions, larger bulk tank truck quantities serve direct pipeline and continuous feed processes. We adopted these packaging choices from decades of feedback from inks, adhesives, coatings, and resins manufacturers struggling with inconsistent supplier packaging—so now, we commit to uniform packing every shipment.

Why Minimum Order Quantities Matter

We work at production scale, so our process lines are set for industrial demand, not just sample or lab batches. Our minimum order quantity aligns with one full pallet of 200 kg drums or one whole IBC: this guarantees fresh product directly from our reactors, not product staged in a distributor’s warehouse. Smaller orders lead to more quality risk, as partial containers create more chances for moisture ingress or contamination. Over the years, this policy has created fewer returns, more reliable shelf life, and a steady workflow through our tank farms and warehouse docks.

Lead Times: A Discipline Built from Experience

In the early days of our manufacturing, delays came from sourcing raw acrylic acid, custom blending, or not anticipating logistics bottlenecks. Now, with year-round feedstock contracts and in-house blending, our standard lead time sits at 2 to 3 weeks from order acceptance. This period covers real production batching, full QC release (including specification reports for hydroxyl value, color, and impurity levels), and all necessary paperwork for shipment. When customers plan critical maintenance shutdowns or face project deadlines, we have found that reliable, honest lead times keep their trust. Rushed, unclear shipping estimates erode relationships—so we never publish misleading or aspirational figures to win business.

Quality Comes from Process Control

Supplying Hydroxyethyl Acrylate is about more than just filling containers. Our plant engineers calibrate every pump between vessels, and our operators take pride in their cleanroom routines—minimizing side reactions and maintaining hydrolysis control throughout each batch. All packaging—drums, IBCs, or road tankers—comes sealed and batch-labeled straight from QC, giving traceability down to reactor number, operator lot, and time. Every order, no matter the size or destination, receives consistency in composition and technical support. This is necessary when a slight side-reaction can throw off downstream polymerization or finishes.

Real Solutions for Real-World Problems

Clients routinely consult with our technical team before ordering, especially if their process requires custom stabilizers or different storage recommendations. We can accommodate these by adjusting batch protocols or packaging types for specific R&D requests, as long as the minimum pallet or IBC quantity fits. We avoid half-measures, such as breaking drums or offering “generic” lots, since those shortcuts create more waste and potential QC flags. Our logistics team arranges the most suitable transport, ensuring drummed or IBC cargo avoids heat and moisture swings en route.

Direct Commitment to Consistent Supply

Our manufacturing philosophy sets us apart from brokers or resellers who cannot guarantee fresh, batch-specific supply or consistent documentation. Our repeat customers count on technical transparency and manufacturing discipline. For new partners, we’re always ready to walk through our packaging, ordering, and lead time structures—built from decades on the factory floor, not from behind a desk or through a trading platform.

Is Hydroxyethyl Acrylate classified as a hazardous material for international shipping and what are the specific storage and handling compliance requirements?

Producing and exporting Hydroxyethyl Acrylate means facing international shipping regulations head-on. Our plant handles this material every day, and over years of safe movement across borders, we have seen firsthand the extended list of requirements attached to chemicals falling under the “hazardous” class for transport.

Regulatory Position on Hazard Class

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate holds a prominent position on the UN Dangerous Goods List, classified under UN 2529. It falls into Class 6.1 (toxic substance) with subsidiary risks, including flammability. This classification does not come from paperwork alone — it comes from its chemical structure: the acrylate group can irritate skin and eyes, emit vapors, and pose toxicity at certain exposures. For international transport, sea (IMDG), air (IATA), and road (ADR/RID) rules all apply, and they support the same conclusion — Hydroxyethyl Acrylate is regulated.

What does this mean for shipping? Every drum or IBC must feature proper hazard labelling. Documents such as the Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS), dangerous goods declaration, and transport emergency cards must travel with the cargo. Loading, unloading, and transit all fall under additional scrutiny, including restrictions on mixed transport with incompatible goods. Strict limits apply to quantities per container, and the packaging itself has to pass UN certification for hazardous liquid containment.

Storage, Handling, and Compliance on the Ground

On our floor, we store Hydroxyethyl Acrylate in stainless steel or coated drums and IBC totes designed for hazardous organics. Temperature control plays a major role. The monomer needs cool, stable conditions, out of direct sunlight, and a dry, well-ventilated warehouse. Our experience shows that uncontrolled temperature not only risks polymerization but can also build internal drum pressure. For this reason, we add MEHQ as a polymerization inhibitor to every batch leaving the reactor.

Personnel must use PPE: goggles, gloves, and chemical-resistant clothing. Vapors can irritate eyes and the respiratory tract, so extraction and local exhaust come as standard in our packing areas. Training sits at the front line of our safety program. New operators undergo practical education on handling spills, containment, and first response procedures for both minor and major exposure. Our personnel practice neutralization procedures and regularly audit the effectiveness of ventilation and emergency equipment.

Static buildup concerns rise with acrylic esters. Our filling stations and storage tanks are grounded to prevent ignition during bulk transfer. All containers are checked before shipping — seals, closures, and labeling — because international rules do not forgive errors that let leaks or vapors escape during transit. Drums must remain upright and securely fastened throughout transport. In practice, inspections cover secondary containment and emergency spill kits for every loading bay.

Fact-Based Results and Best Practices

With Hydroxyethyl Acrylate, there are no shortcuts. We follow international conventions not only to satisfy authorities, but to protect customers, handlers, and the communities near shipping routes. Our technical team reviews each shipment’s paperwork to avoid customs delays or refusals at ports. Audits keep our own warehouse above regulatory expectations. Anyone using Hydroxyethyl Acrylate should expect a precise approach to responsible storage and movement — a standard we keep on every lot that leaves our site.

Technical Support & Inquiry

For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales3@ascent-chem.com, +8615365186327 or WhatsApp: +8615365186327