Bis(2-methacryloxyethyl) phosphate (BMEP), also known as bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] phosphate, is a difunctional methacrylate monomer with an acidic phosphate ester group. Its two methacrylate groups provide sites for free-radical polymerization and crosslinking in polymer networks.
The molecule combines polymerizable methacrylate functionality with a phosphate group bearing one acidic hydroxyl. BMEP is used as a crosslinking monomer and an adhesion-promoting component in formulations for metal substrates.
BMEP is a liquid monomer containing 200–500ppm MEHQ inhibitor. It has also been used as a crosslinker in acrylic hydrogel synthesis, where network properties depend on the formulation and polymerization conditions.
Key Properties
- Product number: 16041
- CAS number: 32435-46-4
- Molecular formula: C12H19O8P
- Molecular weight: Approximately 322.2g/mol
- Physical form: Liquid
- Difunctional methacrylate monomer with an acidic phosphate ester group
- MEHQ inhibitor: 200–500ppm
- Synonyms: Bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] phosphate; BMEP
Applications
Polymer Network Synthesis
BMEP participates in free-radical polymerization through its two methacrylate groups, enabling formation of covalently crosslinked networks. Crosslink density and final material properties depend on monomer composition, BMEP loading, and conversion.
Adhesion-Promoting Formulations
BMEP is used as an adhesion-promoting crosslinking monomer in formulations for metal substrates. Adhesion depends on the substrate, surface preparation, formulation, and cure conditions.
Hydrogel Crosslinking Research
BMEP has been used as a crosslinker in superabsorbent hydrogels prepared by free-radical copolymerization of acrylic monomers. Hydrogel swelling and mechanical properties depend on the comonomer composition, crosslinker loading, and polymerization conditions.
Polymerization & Formulation Considerations
- Two methacrylate groups provide polymerizable sites for network formation
- The phosphate diester group retains one acidic hydroxyl
- Consider the MEHQ inhibitor content when selecting polymerization conditions
- Crosslinking, adhesion, and hydrogel properties depend on formulation and processing
- Check chemical identity and ester composition when comparing phosphate methacrylate products
Storage & Product Selection
Why Choose Polysciences?
Trusted by 6,000+ Researchers Worldwide
Cited in Thousands of Peer-Reviewed Studies
U.S. Manufacturing & Global Distribution
Reliable Delivery to 40+ Countries
FAQ
Click a question to expand.
1. What is Bis(2-methacryloxyethyl) phosphate used for?
BMEP is used as a crosslinking monomer in free-radical polymerization and as an adhesion-promoting component in formulations for metal substrates. It has also been used as a crosslinker in acrylic hydrogel synthesis.
2. Is bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] phosphate the same as BMEP?
Yes. Bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] phosphate and bis(2-methacryloxyethyl) phosphate are names for the same compound. BMEP is a commonly used abbreviation.
3. How does BMEP differ from a mono-methacrylate phosphate ester?
BMEP contains two methacrylate groups attached through a phosphate diester, which retains one acidic hydroxyl. The corresponding phosphate monoester contains one methacrylate group and two acidic hydroxyls. Check the CAS number and ester composition when comparing materials described as “2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate phosphate.”
4. What are the CAS number, molecular formula, and molecular weight of BMEP?
BMEP has CAS number 32435-46-4, molecular formula C12H19O8P, and a molecular weight of approximately 322.2g/mol.
5. How should Polysciences BMEP be stored?
Store BMEP at 4°C in a well-ventilated location. Follow the Safety Data Sheet for handling and storage guidance.
6. Does Polysciences BMEP contain a polymerization inhibitor?
Yes. BMEP contains 200–500ppm MEHQ inhibitor. Consider the inhibitor content when selecting polymerization conditions.
7. Where can I obtain the BMEP SDS?
Download the BMEP Safety Data Sheet. For additional product documentation, contact Polysciences and specify Bis(2-methacryloxyethyl) phosphate, catalog 16041.