What’s Ethylene Glycol Dimethyl Acrylate?

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Ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate is a diester, meaning there are two alcohol/acid combinations in a single organic compound or monomer. Industries commonly combine this substance with other chemical formulations to produce plastic or rubber. Numerous manufacturers use ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate, often referred to as EGDMA, for everything from building materials to medical appliances and laboratory research. Scientists commonly combine the compound with other substances to create copolymer surfaces upon which they regenerate living tissue.

Condensation of methacrylic acid and ethylene glycol produces ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate, which is a colorless and odorless liquid. When combined with polymerized compounds that include methyl methacrylate, the molecular weight increases and EGDMA becomes more of a gel or wax-like solid. The compound is soluble in water but will dissolve in a number of solvents. Ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate is generally not an irritant, toxic or volatile.

The plastics and rubber industries commonly include ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate when manufacturing fiberglass polyester, polyvinyl chloride piping, and rubber hoses. The substance is often one of the ingredients used to make acrylic sheets, plastics and resins. The compound generally increases the stiffness of these products, but also gives the finished products friction resistance capabilities. EGDMA also enhances products by providing chemical, heat and weather resistant properties.

Adhesives, emulsifying agents, humectants and plasticizers may contain EGDMA. Manufacturers commonly add the compound to textile cleaners and lubricants, and industries that make paper or printing ink can also use it. In the pharmaceutical industry, ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate can be used as a medicine dispenser or be included in the base of ointments and suppositories. As a resin, EGDMA is one of the components of the material used by dentists to reline dentures.

Some nail products commonly include ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate. Manufacturers use EGDMA for creating self-adhesive artificial nails and nail tips. The non-irritating and non-toxic properties of the organic substance allow it to be used safely in contact lens applications. It is one of the commonly used materials in the production of soft and hydrophilic contact lenses.

Medical industries also use ethylene glycol dimethyl acrylate in hydrogel form to create artificial corneas and intraocular lens implants. Laboratories often use natural hydrogels to grow reconstructive cells and tissue. These substances may degrade too quickly or may not be readily available. Researchers have devised a means of using EGDMA, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, ascorbic acid and water in a process that creates synthetic hydrogels capable of supporting cellular life. Scientists use these synthetic hydrogels to grow human corneal epithelial cells.

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