Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 (molar), also referred to as PEMA or ethylene/maleic anhydride copolymer, is a reactive copolymer supplied as a white powder for laboratory reagent use and manufacture of substances. Its maleic anhydride functionality makes it useful in polymer formulation, adhesion promotion, surface modification, and dispersion-related applications.
Synonyms / related names: PEMA; Ethylene/MA Copolymer; poly(ethylene-alt-maleic anhydride); ethylene maleic anhydride copolymer.
This copolymer is commonly selected for research and formulation workflows where anhydride functionality, film-forming behavior, and compatibility with polymeric or inorganic surfaces are important. Application performance depends on formulation design, processing conditions, substrate chemistry, and end-use requirements.
Researchers, formulators, and industrial users may use poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) in coatings, adhesives, dispersions, surface treatment systems, sizing formulations, and specialty polymer development.
Key Properties
- Ethylene/maleic anhydride copolymer in a 1:1 molar ratio
- CAS Number: 9006-26-2
- Molecular Formula: (C4H2O3.C2H4)x
- Molecular Weight: ~400,000
- Appearance: White powder
- KF Moisture: 0.0-5.0%
- Loss on drying: 0.0-3.0%
- Specific Viscosity: 0.75-1.05 cPs
- Recommended for laboratory reagent use and manufacture of substances
Applications
Adhesion Promotion
Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) may be used in adhesion-promoting formulations where reactive anhydride functionality can support interaction with compatible surfaces, coatings, adhesives, and laminate systems.
Dispersants & Pigment Systems
This copolymer is used in dispersion-related formulation work involving pigments, fillers, paints, inks, and specialty coatings where polymeric additives are evaluated for stability and uniformity.
Sizing & Surface Treatment
PEMA may be used in textile, paper, and surface treatment workflows where reactive polymer functionality is needed to modify surface properties or support coating performance.
Specialty Polymer Formulation
The copolymer is useful in research and development involving reactive polymers, functional coatings, and modified material interfaces.
Compatibility & Formulation Considerations
- Anhydride functionality may react with compatible nucleophilic groups under appropriate conditions
- Formulation performance depends on pH, solvent or carrier system, substrate chemistry, and processing conditions
- Evaluate compatibility with pigments, fillers, binders, and additives before scale-up
- Moisture content and storage conditions should be considered for anhydride-containing polymer systems
Final performance should be verified under the user’s specific application conditions, including concentration, processing method, drying or curing conditions, and substrate compatibility.
Preparation Tips
- Use clean, dry equipment to reduce contamination during formulation
- Add gradually with appropriate mixing to support uniform dispersion or incorporation
- Confirm compatibility with the intended solvent, carrier, binder, or substrate system
- Run small-scale formulation trials before production or process transfer
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Use with good ventilation
- Wear protective gloves and eye protection
- Avoid breathing dust and avoid contact with skin and eyes
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 used for?
Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 is used in polymer formulation, adhesion promotion, dispersants, surface treatment systems, sizing formulations, coatings, and specialty material development.
2. What is the molecular weight of this product?
The listed molecular weight is approximately 400,000.
3. What is the CAS number?
The CAS number for Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 (molar) is 9006-26-2.
4. What is the appearance of this product?
The product specification lists the appearance as a white powder.
5. How should Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 be stored?
Store the product at room temperature with the container tightly closed. Review the Safety Data Sheet for complete handling, storage, and personal protective equipment guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Poly(ethylene/maleic anhydride) 1:1 should be handled using appropriate ventilation, protective gloves, eye protection, and standard laboratory or industrial safety procedures. The product is classified as harmful in contact with skin or if inhaled and may cause skin and serious eye irritation. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product specification for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.
