4-Methacryloxyethyl trimellitic anhydride

4-Methacryloxyethyl trimellitic anhydride (4-META) is a functional methacrylate monomer used in adhesive formulation research. It combines one polymerizable methacrylate group with a cyclic anhydride group.

The methacrylate group participates in free-radical polymerization, while hydrolysis of the anhydride produces the corresponding dicarboxylic acid, 4-MET. This distinction is important when working with aqueous formulations or studying interactions with mineral surfaces.

4-META is a solid monomer with a melting-point specification of 92–97°C. It has been studied in dental adhesive resins and hydroxyapatite model systems, where formulation and substrate conditions influence its behavior.

Key Properties

• Product number: 17285
• CAS number: 70293-55-9
• Molecular formula: C₁₅H₁₂O₇
• Molecular weight: Approximately 304.3g/mol
• Physical form: Solid
• One methacrylate group and one cyclic anhydride group
• Melting-point specification: 92–97°C
• Abbreviation: 4-META

Applications

Functional Methacrylate Polymer Synthesis

4-META provides a polymerizable methacrylate group and additional anhydride functionality for functional polymer formulations. It has one methacrylate polymerization site per molecule.

Dental Adhesive Formulation Research

4-META has been studied in acrylic adhesive systems for bonding to etched dentin and enamel. Adhesive performance depends on the complete formulation and substrate treatment.

Hydroxyapatite Interaction Studies

4-META has been investigated in hydroxyapatite model systems to examine adsorption, hydrolysis, and calcium phosphate phase changes. These studies address interfacial chemistry under defined solution conditions.

Reactivity & Formulation Considerations

• One methacrylate group provides a site for free-radical polymerization
• The cyclic anhydride group hydrolyzes to form 4-MET
• Account for water exposure when preparing or storing formulations
• Evaluate adhesion using the intended formulation and substrate preparation
• 4-META and 4-MET are chemically distinct materials; verify identity when comparing products

Storage & Product Selection

• Store the solid monomer at 4°C
• Keep away from moisture and store in a well-ventilated location
• Package size: 10g
• Package catalog number: 17285-10
• May cause an allergic skin reaction; use protective gloves and eye protection and follow the current 4-META SDS
• For larger quantities, request a bulk quote and specify 4-methacryloxyethyl trimellitic anhydride, catalog 17285

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