Product Description
Poly(methyl methacrylate/methacrylic acid) is a copolymer that combines the optical clarity and mechanical
strength associated with PMMA with the hydrophilic, adhesive behavior contributed by methacrylic acid. The methacrylic acid
units introduce carboxyl functional groups that can improve adhesion, water uptake, and pH-responsiveness,
making this copolymer useful in biomedical materials, coatings, and functional polymer systems.
Key Benefits
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Balanced performance: PMMA-like clarity/strength with added carboxyl functionality
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Improved adhesion: Carboxyl groups support bonding to polar substrates and interfaces
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Hydrophilicity & water uptake: Enables tunable swelling and surface wettability
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pH-responsive behavior: Ionizable acid groups can provide pH-dependent properties
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Formulation versatility: Suitable for films, coatings, matrices, and blends
Typical Applications
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Biomedical & Dental Materials: Used in polymer matrices where adhesion and hydrophilicity are beneficial,
including bone cement and dental material development.
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Coatings & Adhesives: Enhances adhesion and durability in specialty coatings, primers, and adhesive systems.
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Drug Delivery & Hydrogels: Employed as a pH-responsive component in controlled-release and swelling systems
(application and formulation dependent).
Usage Notes
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Solubility/Processing: Solubility can vary with composition and pH due to carboxyl groups; evaluate solvent
and processing conditions for your application.
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pH Effects: Ionization of methacrylic acid units can change viscosity, swelling, and adhesion; adjust pH and
ionic strength to tune performance.
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Blending: Can be blended with compatible polymers/resins to tailor mechanical properties and surface behavior;
bench testing is recommended.
Handling & Storage
- Store tightly closed in a cool, dry area and protect from moisture.
- Avoid excessive heat and strong oxidizers; follow standard polymer handling practices.
- Consult the SDS for safe handling guidance and disposal considerations.
FAQs
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What is Poly(methyl methacrylate/methacrylic acid)?
It is a copolymer of methyl methacrylate and methacrylic acid. The methyl methacrylate portion contributes clarity and
mechanical strength, while methacrylic acid introduces carboxyl groups that increase hydrophilicity and adhesion.
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How do the carboxyl (acid) groups affect performance?
Carboxyl groups can improve adhesion to polar surfaces, increase water uptake, and provide pH-dependent behavior through
ionization. This can impact swelling, viscosity, and interfacial bonding depending on the formulation.
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Is this copolymer pH-responsive?
Yes. Methacrylic acid units can ionize at higher pH, which may change solubility, swelling, and rheology. The magnitude of
the response depends on copolymer composition and the ionic environment.
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What are common ways to process or use this material?
It is commonly used in coatings, films, and polymer matrices. Solvent choice and pH can influence processing, so evaluate
conditions (solvent system, concentration, mixing, and drying/curing) in small-scale trials first.
