Glacial Acrylic Acid (GAA), identified by its CAS number 79-10-7, stands as a cornerstone monomer and chemical intermediate of immense significance across a multitude of industrial applications. It is typically presented as a clear, colorless liquid, possessing a characteristic acrid odor. Chemically, it is an unsaturated carboxylic acid, featuring both a carboxylic acid functional group and a carbon-carbon double bond. This dual functionality renders GAA highly reactive and incredibly versatile in chemical synthesis.

The molecular formula for Glacial Acrylic Acid is C3H4O2, representing a simple yet powerful structure. Its properties make it miscible with water, as well as various alcohols and ethers, facilitating its use in a wide range of formulations and reactions. GAA readily undergoes reactions characteristic of carboxylic acids, such as esterification, salt formation, and anhydride formation. Simultaneously, the presence of the double bond allows it to participate in addition reactions and, most importantly, polymerization, which is the foundation for many of its major applications.

One of the primary uses of Glacial Acrylic Acid is in the production of polymers and copolymers. Homopolymerization yields polyacrylic acid (PAA) and its salts, which are critical components in superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). SAPs have revolutionized the hygiene industry, being indispensable in disposable diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products due to their remarkable ability to absorb and retain large volumes of water-based liquids. The demand for high-purity GAA is intrinsically linked to the performance requirements of these absorbent materials.

Beyond SAPs, GAA is extensively used to produce a variety of acrylate esters, including methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, and hydroxyethyl acrylate. These esters serve as monomers for producing acrylic polymers and copolymers utilized in coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. Acrylic coatings are valued for their excellent weatherability, durability, color retention, and adhesion properties, making them suitable for architectural paints, automotive finishes, and industrial coatings. Acrylic adhesives and sealants provide strong bonding and flexibility, finding applications in construction, packaging, and assembly.

Furthermore, Glacial Acrylic Acid and its derivatives find application in textile sizing and finishing, dispersants for pigments and minerals, flocculants for water treatment and mining, thickeners in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and as a crosslinking agent in various polymer systems. The ability of GAA to polymerize with a wide range of other monomers (such as acrylates, methacrylates, vinyl acetate, styrene, and acrylonitrile) allows for the creation of copolymers with tailor-made properties, serving highly specific performance needs across diverse industries.

Ensuring the quality and consistency of Glacial Acrylic Acid is paramount for reliable industrial processes. Typical specifications for industrial grade GAA often include minimum purity levels, maximum limits for color (Hazen units), water content, and total aldehydes. The presence and level of polymerization inhibitors, such as methyl ether of hydroquinone (MEHQ), are also critical parameters, as they prevent premature polymerization during storage and transportation. Reputable suppliers maintain strict quality control protocols to ensure their GAA meets or exceeds industry standards, providing customers with a stable and reliable raw material.

Handling Glacial Acrylic Acid requires adherence to safety guidelines due to its corrosive nature and the flammability of its vapors. Proper storage conditions, typically below its freezing point (around 13°C) to avoid solid block formation, are also essential, along with appropriate inhibitors to prevent unwanted polymerization, especially at elevated temperatures or in the presence of contaminants.

The global market for Glacial Acrylic Acid is influenced by demand from the hygiene industry, construction sector, automotive industry, and other manufacturing areas. As a high-volume chemical, it is typically transported and supplied in bulk forms such as isotanks, IBCs, or drums, depending on the quantity required by the customer. Securing a consistent and high-quality source is a strategic consideration for companies relying on GAA as a key input material.

For businesses seeking a reliable Glacial Acrylic Acid manufacturer or a trusted Glacial Acrylic Acid supplier, evaluating potential partners based on their production capacity, quality assurance processes, and logistical capabilities is crucial. Prospective buyers may wish to inquire about Glacial Acrylic Acid price based on their specific volume requirements and desired specifications. Understanding the factors influencing the cost and availability of GAA is important for procurement planning. Details on how to buy Glacial Acrylic Acid or procedures for Glacial Acrylic Acid for purchase can typically be obtained directly from experienced suppliers who can provide technical data sheets, safety information, and discuss packaging and delivery options tailored to customer needs.