Introduction
2-HEA (CAS 818-61-1) is one of the most widely used hydroxy-functional acrylic monomers in modern polymer chemistry. This DECHEM guide is written for formulators, resin producers, distributors and procurement teams who need a practical, decision-oriented view of 2-HEA: what it is, where it is used, what to compare on a TDS/SDS/COA, and how to validate a grade before commercial adoption. Exact specifications and regulatory requirements should always be confirmed against current official product documents.
Technical Context
Hydroxy-functional acrylic monomers combine a polymerizable unsaturation (acrylate double bond) with a primary hydroxyl group (-CH2CH2-OH). That dual functionality makes 2-HEA a reactive building block for polymer design: the acrylate group copolymerizes with acrylic, styrenic and vinylic monomers, while the hydroxyl group provides crosslinking sites for polyisocyanates, melamine-formaldehyde and epoxy curing systems. Product selection should be based on the intended reaction route, resin architecture, end-use requirements and the supplier's current specification.
Industrial Applications
Typical downstream areas include automotive and industrial coatings, pressure-sensitive adhesives, acrylic polyols, printing inks, UV/EB-cured systems, textile and leather finishes, and specialty polymers. The exact function of 2-HEA in a formulation depends on the complete resin architecture, comonomer package and processing conditions — not on the monomer alone.
Buyer Focus: What to Compare on TDS / SDS / COA
When evaluating 2-HEA from different suppliers, compare the current TDS, SDS and representative COA side by side, paying attention to:
- Identity and CAS: confirm 2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate, CAS 818-61-1, molecular weight 116.12 g/mol.
- Assay (GC purity): industrial grade typically ≥ 97.0%, high-purity grade ≥ 99.0%.
- Moisture (KF): ≤ 0.10 wt%; tighter limits for isocyanate-cured systems.
- Acid value (as acrylic acid): ≤ 1.0 mg KOH/g.
- Inhibitor (MEHQ): 200–400 ppm standard, customizable for UV-cure use.
- Packaging and storage guidance: drums (200 kg), IBC (1,000 kg), ISO tank (20–24 MT); store 15–25°C, away from direct sunlight.
- Batch traceability: COA must reference a production lot number, not just a specification sheet.
Application and Validation
Before commercial adoption, reproduce the intended process in a controlled trial. Record raw-material lot numbers, addition sequence, temperature profile, processing observations and finished-product performance (cure speed, hardness, gloss, adhesion, outdoor weathering). With this data on file, any future supplier or grade change can be evaluated objectively rather than by trial and error on the production line.
B2B Buying Checklist
For a smooth 2-HEA purchase, confirm with the supplier before PO issuance:
- Product identity and current technical grade (standard vs high-purity vs low-MEHQ).
- Quantity and packaging (drums / IBC / ISO tank).
- Destination port and Incoterm (FOB Qingdao, CIF, DAP, etc.).
- Delivery window and production slot availability.
- Documentation: batch COA, 16-section SDS, packing list, commercial invoice, certificate of origin.
- Sample approval status (pre-shipment samples available on request).
- Customer-specific acceptance criteria (e.g. tighter moisture, lower diester impurities).
Conclusion
For 2-HEA CAS 818-61-1 properties, specifications and uses, the best purchasing decision combines application fit, consistent quality, clear documentation and dependable supply. DECHEM supplies 2-HEA and the full hydroxy acrylic monomer range (HEMA, 2-HPA, HPMA) to international B2B customers from our Shandong manufacturing base, exported from Qingdao. Final purchasing specifications should always be based on the latest official documents and the customer's own validation.
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B2B Inquiry
For current TDS, SDS, representative COA availability, packaging information and quotations, use the DECHEM inquiry channel — our technical sales team replies within one business day.