2,4,6-Tribromophenyl acrylate (TBPA) is a brominated aromatic acrylate monomer used in polymer and copolymer synthesis. Its acrylate functionality provides a polymerizable site, while the tribrominated aromatic group makes TBPA useful for high-refractive-index polymer research.
TBPA is a high-refractive-index monomer with an approximate refractive index of 1.6. It may be evaluated in polymer systems where refractive index, optical performance, and brominated aromatic content are important formulation parameters.
Polysciences product 03330 is a solid with a molecular weight of 384.9 g/mol and a specified melting-point range of 76–80°C. It is available in a 10 g package.
Synonyms: Acrylic acid 2,4,6-tribromophenyl ester; 2,4,6-tribromophenyl prop-2-enoate; TBPA.
Key Properties
- Brominated aromatic acrylate monomer
- One polymerizable acrylate group
- High refractive index of approximately 1.6
- CAS number: 3741-77-3
- Molecular formula: C9H5Br3O2
- Molecular weight: 384.9 g/mol
- Melting point: 76–80°C
- Physical form: Solid
- Product number: 03330
- Available size: 10 g
Applications
High-Refractive-Index Polymer Research
TBPA may be evaluated in polymer systems where a higher refractive index is a target material property. The refractive index of the finished polymer will depend on TBPA content, comonomer selection, conversion, additives, and processing conditions.
Acrylic Copolymer Synthesis
The acrylate group allows TBPA to participate in free-radical copolymerization with compatible acrylic, methacrylic, and other vinyl monomers. Comonomer selection and feed ratio affect polymer composition, conversion, optical properties, and thermal behavior.
Optical Materials & Coatings Research
TBPA may be evaluated in experimental polymer films, coatings, resins, and related optical-material formulations where refractive index is an important design parameter.
Brominated Aromatic Polymer Design
As a reactive monomer, TBPA provides a route for incorporating a tribrominated aromatic group into an acrylic polymer or copolymer. The resulting material properties will depend on the complete polymer composition and polymerization conditions.
Polymerization & Formulation Considerations
- Select the initiator, reaction medium, temperature, and comonomers for the complete polymerization system
- Account for the solid form and 76–80°C melting-point range when planning material addition and mixing
- Confirm compatibility with solvents, comonomers, initiators, crosslinkers, and other formulation components
- Use small-scale polymerization trials to establish conversion and polymer composition
- Measure refractive index using the finished polymer rather than relying on the monomer value alone
- Evaluate thermal and flame-response properties in the finished formulation using appropriate test methods
Bromine content alone does not establish flame-retardant performance or compliance. Polymer composition, TBPA concentration, additives, geometry, and the selected test method can all affect the final result.
Application Tips
- Determine the required TBPA concentration based on the target polymer composition and refractive index
- Verify uniform incorporation before initiating polymerization
- Monitor monomer conversion and copolymer composition using appropriate analytical methods
- Characterize the optical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the finished polymer
- Complete application-specific performance testing before scale-up
Handling & Storage
- Store at 4°C in a well-ventilated place
- Keep the container cool and tightly closed
- Handle in a fume hood or another adequately ventilated work area
- Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection
- Wash thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using this material
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FAQ
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1. What is 2,4,6-tribromophenyl acrylate?
2,4,6-Tribromophenyl acrylate is a brominated aromatic acrylate monomer used in polymer and copolymer synthesis. It combines a polymerizable acrylate group with a tribrominated phenyl group.
2. What are the CAS number, molecular formula, and molecular weight of TBPA?
The CAS number is 3741-77-3, the molecular formula is C9H5Br3O2, and the molecular weight is 384.9 g/mol.
3. What is 2,4,6-tribromophenyl acrylate used for?
TBPA is used in high-refractive-index polymer research, acrylic copolymer synthesis, optical-material formulations, and research involving brominated aromatic polymers.
4. Does TBPA automatically make a polymer flame retardant?
No. TBPA introduces brominated aromatic content into a polymer, but flame-response performance depends on the complete formulation, TBPA concentration, additives, geometry, and test method. Finished materials require application-specific testing.
5. How should 2,4,6-tribromophenyl acrylate be stored?
Store TBPA at 4°C in a well-ventilated place. Keep the container cool and tightly closed.
Safety & Documentation
2,4,6-Tribromophenyl acrylate is harmful if swallowed. Use appropriate laboratory safety practices, including protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection, and adequate ventilation. Review the Safety Data Sheet, product specification, and Monomers Product Guide before use.