Methyl Methacrylate

1Identification

Name

Methyl Methacrylate

IUPAC name

methyl 2-methylprop-2-enoate

CAS number

80-62-6

EC number

201-297-1

Molecular formula

C5H8O2

Molecular weight

100.12 g/mol

InChIKey

VVQNEPGJFQJSBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CC(=C)C(=O)OC

PubChem CID

6658

Synonyms

METHYL METHACRYLATE, methyl 2-methylprop-2-enoate, Methylmethacrylate, Pegalan, Methacrylic acid methyl ester, Methyl methylacrylate, Methyl 2-methylpropenoate, Acryester M, Diakon, Metakrylan metylu, Methyl-methacrylat, Methyl 2-methyl-2-propenoate, 2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester, Metil metacrilato

Recommended uses

• CIR ingredient: Methyl Methacrylate
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• Methyl methacrylate is used in the manufacture of methacrylate resins and plastics (e.g., Plexiglas). The principal uses of methyl methacrylate are: cast sheet and other grades (advertising signs and displays, lighting fixtures, glazing and skylights, building panels and sidings, and plumbing and bathroom fixtures), molding/extrusion powder, and coatings (latex paints, lacquer, and enamel resins).
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• Acrylates and methacrylates are monomers that are combined with other monomers or polymers to produce plastics used in cosmetics, medicine, dentistry, and manufacturing industries. [Marks, p. 181] Occupational asthma in operating room nurse; [Malo] Used to make Lucite, Plexiglas, paper coatings, latex paints, inks, polishes, dental restorations, adhesive cements, surgical implants, and impregnated concrete; [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Binder Other Solvent Dispersing agent Monomers Surfactant (surface active agent) Photosensitive chemicals Filler Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Viscosity modifiers Stabilizing agent Plasticizer Laboratory chemicals Defoamer Intermediate Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Monomers Solvent Lubricating agent Binder Defoamer Plasticizer Flame retardant Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Stabilizing agent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT -> JECFA Functional Classes · Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index

Description

• Methyl methacrylate monomer appears as a clear colorless liquid. Slightly soluble in water and floats on water. Vapors heavier than air. Vapors irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Containers must be heavily insulated or shipped under refrigeration. An inhibitor such as hydroquinone, hydroquinone methyl ester and dimethyl t-butylphenol is added to keep the chemical from initiating polymerization. The chemical may polymerize exothermically if heated or contaminated with strong acid or base. If the polymerization takes place inside a container, the container may rupture violently. Used to make plastics.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Methyl methacrylate is an enoate ester having methacrylic acid as the carboxylic acid component and methanol as the alcohol component. It has a role as an allergen and a polymerisation monomer. It is a methyl ester and an enoate ester. It is functionally related to a methacrylic acid.
  ChEBI
• Methyl methacrylate is used in the manufacture of resins and plastics. Methyl methacrylate is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans. An allergic response to dermal exposure may develop. Respiratory effects have been reported in humans following acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) inhalation exposures. Respiratory symptoms observed following acute exposures include chest tightness, dyspnea, coughing, wheezing, and reduced peak flow. Neurological symptoms have also been reported in humans following acute exposure to methyl methacrylate. Fetal abnormalities have been reported in animals exposed to methyl methacrylate by injection and inhalation.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS07

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

5 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Materials that in themselves are capable of detonation or explosive decomposition or explosive reaction but that require a strong initiating source or must be heated under confinement before initiation.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat. Nausea and vomiting. Liquid may cause skin irritation. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. · Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Behavior in Fire: Vapor is heavier than air and may travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back. Containers may explode in fire or when heated because of polymerization. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. · Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. · Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. · Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). · Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. · Containers may explode when heated. · Many liquids will float on water.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Methyl methacrylate is used in the manufacture of resins and plastics. Methyl methacrylate is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans. An allergic response to dermal exposure may develop. Respiratory effects have been reported in humans following acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) inhalation exposures. Respiratory symptoms observed following acute exposures include chest tightness, dyspnea, coughing, wheezing, and reduced peak flow. Neurological symptoms have also been reported in humans following acute exposure to methyl methacrylate. Fetal abnormalities have been reported in animals exposed to methyl methacrylate by injection and inhalation.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• MMA is an ocular and upper respiratory tract irritant, and it is a skin sensitizer and a suspected respiratory sensitizer. [ACGIH] Liquid causes first degree burns on short exposure. [CHRIS] Can cause occupational asthma; [Reference #1] The highest exposures to the monomer occur in workers who use the monomer to manufacture other products with lower exposures in workers who produce the monomer. [Reference #2] Dentists are exposed to a median 8-hour time weighted average of 0.8 ug/m3. [PMID 16020090] Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized (UN1247) has warning of explosive polymerization; [ERG 2016] See VOC sources and exposures in nail salons: a pilot study in Michigan, USA. [PMID 30276513]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Cough. Shortness of breath. Sore throat.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or foam extinguishers. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Vapors may travel long distances to ignition sources and flashback. Vapors in confined areas may explode when exposed to fire. Containers may explode in fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may spread fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. /Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized and uninhibited/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct flame-consider evacuation of one-half (1/2) mile radius. If material leaking (not on fire) consider evacuation from downwind area based on amount of material spilled, location, and weather conditions. /Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Toxic gases and vapors (such as carbon monoxide) may be released in a fire involving methyl methacrylate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious); polymerization hazard]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: chemical protection suit and filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Remove all ignition sources. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1. Remove all ignition sources. 2. Ventilate area of spill or leak. 3. For small quantities, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in safe place (such as fume hood). Burn paper in suitable location away from combustible materials. Large quantities can be collected and atomized in suitable combustion chamber. Methyl methacrylate should not be allowed to enter confined space, such as sewer, because of possibility of an explosion.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Spill Handling: Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Establish forced ventilation to keep levels below explosive limit. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, peat, carbon, or a similar material and deposit in sealed containers. Keep this chemical out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants, strong bases and strong acids. Cool. Keep in the dark. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Store only if stabilized.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Before entering confined space where this chemical may be present, check to make sure that an explosive concentration does not exist. Methyl methacrylate must be stored to avoid contact with oxidizers, such as nitrates, permanganates, perchlorates, chlorates, and peroxides; strong alkalis, such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, and strong acids, such as nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid, since violent reactions occur. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well ventilated area away from light, heat, and ionizing radiation, because methyl methacrylate will react and release heat quickly causing an explosion. Store with an appropriate inhibitor.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Keep container in a well-ventilated place. Keep away from sources of ignition. ... Take precautionary measures against static discharges.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Temp during storage must be kept low to minimize formation of peroxides and other oxidation products. ... Storage temp below 30 °C are recommended for the polyfunctional methacrylates. ... the methacrylate monomers should not be stored for longer than one year. Shorter storage times are recommended for the aminomethacrylates, ie, three months, and the polyfunctional methacrylates, ie, six months. Many of these cmpd are sensitive to UV light and should, therefore, be stored in the dark. The methacrylic esters may be stored in mild steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. /Methacrylic acid & derivatives/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Methyl methacrylate: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F). Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles. /Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized and uninhibited/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Suitable protective clothing and self-contained respiratory protective apparatus should be available for use of those who may have to rescue persons overcome by fumes. /Acrylic acid and derivatives/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH/OSHA Up to 1000 ppm: (APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode (APF = 50) Any chemical cartridge respirator with a full facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s) (APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece (APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: (APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• METHYL METHACRYLATE MONOMER, may polymerize if contaminated or subjected to heat. If polymerization takes place in a container, the container is subject to violent rupture. Oxidizes readily in air to form unstable peroxides that may explode spontaneously [Bretherick 1979. p.151-154, 164]. Peroxides may also initiate exothermic polymierization of the bulk material [Bretherick 1979. p. 160]. Benzoyl peroxide was weighed into a beaker that had previously been rinsed with methyl methacrylate. The peroxide catalyzed polymerization of the methyl methacrylate and the build-up of heat ignited the remaining peroxide [MCA Case History 996. 1964].
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Very slightly soluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• ... Can react with oxidizing materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Benzoyl peroxide was weighed into a stainless steel beaker that had been rinsed previously with methyl methacrylate. The peroxide catalyzed polymerization of the methacrylate and the build-up of heat was sufficient to ignite the remainder of the peroxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Incompatibile with nitrates, oxidizers, peroxides, strong acids, strong alkalies, reducing agents, amines, moisture. Contact with benzoyl peroxide may cause ignition, fire, and explosion.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Nervous Respiratory
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)
• Eyes, skin, respiratory system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. The substance may have effects on the peripheral nervous system.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 12 of the supplier's SDS.

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U162, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1.By absorbing it in vermiculite, dry sand, earth or similar material ... 2. By atomizing in suitable combustion chamber.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Do not empty into drains.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1247

Shipping name

• UN 1247; Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized[United Nations; Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Model Regulations. Vol. I, 16th Revised Edition (2009). Available from, as of March 22, 2010: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev16/16files_e.html]
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Hazard Class or Division: 3; Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized[United Nations; Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Model Regulations. Vol. I, 16th Revised Edition (2009). Available from, as of March 22, 2010: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev16/16files_e.html]
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Methyl methacrylate monomer, stabilized
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1247
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquid (49 eCFR § 173.120)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1247 129P
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• 1247 129P(inhibited)
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Methyl methacrylate is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Methyl methacrylate is designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this substance. This designation includes any isomers and hydrates, as well as any solutions and mixtures containing this substance.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 1000 lb or 454 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV.D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Methyl methacrylate is included on this list. Effective date 4/13/89; Sunset date: 6/30/98.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• U162; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when methyl methacrylate, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Homopolymers and copolymers of methyl methacrylate are an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 6658 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.