The Critical Rule: Oxygen, Not Nitrogen
Hydroxy acrylic monomers (2-HEA, HEMA, 2-HPA, HPMA) are stabilized with MEHQ (monomethyl ether hydroquinone, 200–400 ppm). MEHQ acts as an effective polymerization inhibitor only in the presence of dissolved oxygen.
★ Therefore: NEVER nitrogen-blanket hydroxy acrylic monomers. Inert gas blanketing removes the oxygen that MEHQ needs, which can accelerate polymerization and create a serious safety hazard. Always keep containers sealed with atmospheric air and avoid any inert-gas blanketing practice.
Recommended Storage Conditions
| Storage Parameter | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 15–25°C (59–77°F) |
| Container Condition | Keep tightly sealed, avoid air ingress |
| Inhibitor | MEHQ 200–400 ppm (check COA per batch) |
| Storage Location | Cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from ignition sources |
| Avoid | Direct sunlight, heat, peroxides, strong oxidizing agents, free-radical initiators |
| Shelf Life | 12 months from production per official TDS; keep within 6 months for optimal performance |
If the temperature drops below 10°C, monomers may crystallize. Do not use direct flame for re-liquefaction; warm the container gradually in a controlled environment (e.g., warm water bath) while keeping the container vented, and re-homogenize thoroughly before use.
Safe Handling Principles
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles and protective clothing when handling.
- Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid skin contact — acrylates can cause skin irritation and sensitization.
- Do not return unused monomer to the original container.
- Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources.
- In case of skin contact, wash immediately with plenty of soap and water.
Packaging Options
| Package Type | Typical Net Weight | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Drums | 200 kg | Small orders, sample shipments |
| IBC Totes | 1,000 kg | Medium volume, easy warehouse handling |
| ISO Tank Container | 20–24 MT | Large-volume cost-efficient shipment |
Dangerous Goods Classification and Transport
- 2-HEA (CAS 818-61-1): classified as UN 2922 (corrosive liquid, corrosive, n.o.s.).
- All four hydroxy monomers are classified as hazardous goods for transport (Class 8 corrosive liquids; check the latest MSDS per product for full transport details, packing group and limited quantity provisions).
- Shipments must be accompanied by: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, batch-specific COA, MSDS and dangerous goods declaration where applicable.
Export Documentation Checklist
For international purchases, a complete document package typically includes: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading / air waybill, Certificate of Analysis (COA), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and Certificate of Origin. For EU-bound shipments, REACH compliance documentation should be confirmed for the relevant CAS numbers (818-61-1, 868-77-9, 27813-02-1).
DECHEM’s export team coordinates documentation and dangerous goods declarations for every shipment, with all batches subject to 100% QC testing before release.