Acrylic acid (propenoic acid) is prepared using acrolein from the catalytic oxidation of propylene. Acrylates are primarily used to prepare emulsion and solution polymers. The emulsion polymerization process provides high yields of polymers in a form suitable for a variety of applications. Acrylic acid is used in the form of esters. A large amount (80–85%) of raw materials is used in the manufacture of superabsorbent poly(acrylic acid) and its salts are also used in detergents, water treatment, and dispersants. Solution polymers of acrylates are employed in the preparation of industrial coatings. The polymeric products share qualities of high resistance to chemical and environmental attack and attractive strength properties. Acrylic acid and its esters react readily with electrophilic, free‐radical, and nucleophilic agents.

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The article contains sections titled: 1. Introduction 2. Properties 2.1. Physical Properties 2.2. Chemical Properties 3. Production 3.1. Methacrylic Acid and Methyl Methacrylate from Acetone Cyanohydrin 3.2. Methacrylic Acid from Isobutene 3.3. Methacrylic Acid from Isobutyric Acid 3.4. Methacrylic Acid From Ethylene 4. Quality Specifications 5. Storage and Transportation 6. Uses 7. Economic Aspects 8. Toxicology and Occupational Health

Physical Properties Reactions Specialty Acrylic Esters Health and Safety Factors