Acrylate vs. Methacrylate — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 10, 2023
Acrylate is a salt or ester of acrylic acid with one unsaturated bond. Methacrylate, derived from methacrylic acid, has two unsaturated bonds, offering more resistance to UV and oxidation.
Difference Between Acrylate and Methacrylate
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Acrylate and Methacrylate both belong to the family of acrylics and are widely used in polymer sciences for making resins, plastics, and rubber. However, there are fundamental differences in their chemical structures and properties.
Acrylate is an ester or salt derived from acrylic acid. The characteristic feature of acrylates is the presence of a single carbon-carbon double bond in its molecular structure. Due to this unsaturated bond, acrylates are highly reactive and are often used in the production of various polymers and co-polymers.
On the other hand, Methacrylate is an ester or salt of methacrylic acid. The main distinction in its structure compared to acrylate is the presence of an additional methyl group. This makes methacrylates possess two unsaturated bonds, which makes them slightly more resistant to UV light and oxidation than acrylates.
In practical applications, while acrylates are commonly used in paints, adhesives, and textiles, methacrylates find their usage more in making durable plastics, dental materials, and other products where more rigidity or UV resistance is desired.
Comparison Chart
Origin
Derived from acrylic acid
Derived from methacrylic acid
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Unsaturation
One carbon-carbon double bond
Two unsaturated bonds due to an additional methyl group
UV Resistance
Less UV resistant
More UV resistant due to the extra methyl group
Reactivity
Highly reactive
Less reactive than acrylates
Common Uses
Paints, adhesives, textiles
Plastics, dental materials, UV resistant applications
Compare with Definitions
Acrylate
A compound with a reactive unsaturated bond derived from acrylic acid.
The adhesive contained a mix of acrylate monomers.
Methacrylate
A compound characterized by an additional methyl group compared to acrylates.
The plastic had methacrylate components, making it more UV resistant.
Acrylate
A salt or ester of acrylic acid.
The artist used an acrylate-based binder in his paints.
Methacrylate
Used in creating more rigid and durable plastics.
The eyeglass lenses were made of polymethyl methacrylate.
Acrylate
Used in making polymers or co-polymers in industry.
The new fabric has an acrylate polymer for added stretch.
Methacrylate
An ester or salt derived from methacrylic acid.
The dentist used a methacrylate resin for the dental filling.
Acrylate
A material prevalent in coatings, adhesives, and sealants.
Acrylate coatings provide a glossy finish to wooden furniture.
Methacrylate
Commonly found in materials requiring higher resistance to wear.
The methacrylate sealant lasted longer than its counterparts.
Acrylate
A substance in certain adhesives that can cause allergic reactions.
She switched to an acrylate-free adhesive due to her skin sensitivity.
Methacrylate
A component in many UV-curable resins.
The artwork was coated with a methacrylate resin for protection against sunlight.
Acrylate
Acrylates (IUPAC: prop-2-enoates) are the salts, esters, and conjugate bases of acrylic acid. The acrylate ion is the anion CH2=CHCOO−.
Methacrylate
Methacrylates are derivatives of methacrylic acid. These derivatives include the parent acid (CH2C(CH3)CO2H), salts (e.g., CH2C(CH3)CO−2Na+), esters (e.g.
Acrylate
(organic compound) Any salt or ester of acrylic acid.
Methacrylate
A salt or ester of methacrylic acid, used in the manufacture of certain plastics.
Acrylate
A salt or ester of propenoic acid
Methacrylate
A resin derived from methacrylic acid.
Methacrylate
(organic chemistry) Any salt or ester of methacrylic acid, especially an ester used in the manufacture of resins and plastics.
Methacrylate
A resin manufactured from methacrylic acid or a methacrylate.
Common Curiosities
Are there any health concerns with Acrylates?
Some people can develop allergies to certain acrylates, especially in nail products.
What is the primary source of Acrylate?
Acrylate is derived from acrylic acid.
Are Acrylates used in cosmetics?
Yes, acrylates are often used in nail products and adhesives in cosmetics.
Which is more UV resistant, Acrylate or Methacrylate?
Methacrylate, due to its additional methyl group, offers more UV resistance.
How does Methacrylate differ from Acrylate in its origin?
Methacrylate is derived from methacrylic acid.
Is Methacrylate used in dental applications?
Yes, methacrylates are often used in dental resins and fillings due to their rigidity.
Why is Methacrylate more oxidation-resistant?
The extra methyl group in Methacrylate makes it more resistant to oxidation.
Are Acrylates present in paint?
Yes, acrylates are commonly found in various paints due to their adhesive properties.
Are Acrylate and Methacrylate biodegradable?
Generally, they are not easily biodegradable and can persist in the environment.
Is Methacrylate used in contact lenses?
Yes, certain types of soft contact lenses are made from materials containing methacrylate.
Which compound is more rigid, Acrylate or Methacrylate?
Methacrylate tends to form more rigid polymers than Acrylate.
Can Acrylates cause skin reactions?
Yes, some acrylates can cause skin irritations or allergies in sensitive individuals.
What is polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)?
PMMA is a transparent thermoplastic often used as a lightweight alternative to glass.
In which industry is Methacrylate most commonly used?
Methacrylate is widely used in the plastics industry.
Can Acrylates be found in household items?
Yes, acrylates can be found in many household items including paints, adhesives, and textiles.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
