General Description

Liquid. Floats on water.

Reactivity Profile

Dodecyl 2-methylacrylate is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides. Tends to polymerize. Oxidizing and reducing agents may initiate polymerization. Reaction may also occur when heated [USCG, 1999].

Health Hazard

Inhalation temporarily reduces blood pressure from 5 to 25%, increases respiratory rate, decreases heart rate, and causes some EKG changes. Liquid may cause irritation of eyes and skin. May be harmful if swallowed.

Fire Hazard

Behavior in Fire: Heat can induce polymerization with rapid release of energy. Sealed containers may rupture explosively.

Flammability and Explosibility

Nonflammable

Purification Methods

Purify the ester by fractional distillation in a high vacuum. Add 0.05% of hydroquinone monomethyl ether as stabilizer. [Rehberg & Fischer Ind Eng Chem 40 1430 1948, Beilstein 2 III 1290, 2 IV 1528.]