For professionals in the chemical industry, understanding the intricacies of key intermediates is vital for innovation and effective sourcing. 4-Methacryloxyethyl Trimellitic Anhydride, commonly abbreviated as 4-META (CAS No.: 70293-55-9), is one such versatile compound that plays a significant role in diverse applications, most notably in dental adhesives and advanced polymer formulations. This article delves into the fundamental aspects of 4-META, providing insights into its chemical properties, synthesis considerations, and how to identify reliable manufacturers and suppliers.

Chemically, 4-META is characterized by its dual functionality. It features a trimellitic anhydride core, which offers a reactive anhydride group, and an ethyl methacrylate ester side chain, which provides a polymerizable methacrylate group. This unique combination is the source of its utility. The anhydride group readily reacts with hydroxyl, amine, or thiol groups on surfaces or other molecules, forming strong covalent bonds. This makes it an excellent adhesion promoter, particularly for inorganic substrates like metal oxides or ceramics, and for biological materials like dentin. The methacrylate group, conversely, allows 4-META to copolymerize with other vinyl monomers through free-radical polymerization, enabling the formation of robust polymeric networks. Its physical appearance is typically a white to off-white crystalline powder, with a melting point around 95°C.

The synthesis of 4-META generally involves the esterification of trimellitic anhydride with a suitable hydroxyethyl methacrylate precursor. While specific industrial synthesis routes are proprietary, the process typically requires careful control of reaction conditions, including temperature, catalyst, and solvent, to ensure high purity and yield. Achieving high purity is particularly important for its application in sensitive areas like dental materials. The development of efficient and cost-effective synthesis pathways is a continuous area of focus for chemical manufacturers.

When seeking to procure 4-META, it is crucial to partner with reputable manufacturers and suppliers who can guarantee product quality and consistency. Companies often look for suppliers in China that offer competitive pricing along with robust quality control measures. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of fine chemical intermediates, including 4-META. We understand the importance of reliable sourcing for your R&D and production needs. We encourage prospective buyers to request detailed specifications, inquire about bulk purchasing options, and obtain price quotes to ensure they are making an informed decision. Partnering with us means gaining access to a dependable supply of high-quality 4-META, supporting your innovation in specialty chemicals.