What Are Acrylic Monomers?

Acrylic monomers are reactive organic molecules used as the building blocks to produce acrylic polymers. These monomers readily undergo free radical polymerization, enabling formulators to create polymers that tailor flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance depending on the acrylic monomers used.  

What Are Acrylic Monomers Used For? 


The acrylic polymers made from acrylic monomers are found in the following end-use applications. 
  • Pressure-sensitive adhesives 
  • Architectural and industrial coatings 
  • Hydrogels, SAPs, and water treatment polymers 
  • Textile and leather auxiliaries 
  • Nonwoven binders 
  • Plastics, fibers, and film additives 
  • Detergent and dispersant intermediates 

These diverse applications are made possible by the diverse number of acrylic monomers that exist, with differences in reactivity and chemical structure. BASF stands out as a global leader in acrylic monomer manufacturing, providing a combination of supply stability, product consistency, and sustainable process practices. 

The BASF Acrylic Monomer Portfolio 


BASF produces acrylic monomers for a wide range of markets, including acrylic acid and acrylic ester derivatives that are essential for addition‑reaction chemistry and polymer production. Acrylic monomers such as glacial acrylic acid, butyl acrylate, and 2‑ethylhexyl acrylate form the backbone of many industrial and consumer materials made from acrylic polymers. 

Key BASF Acrylic Monomers 

2‑Ethylhexyl Acrylate (2‑EHA) 

This flexible acrylic ester feedstock for secondary chemical syntheses is used to manufacture homopolymers and copolymers used in: 

  • pressure‑sensitive adhesives 
  • industrial and specialty coatings 
  • sealants and elastomeric systems 

Butyl Acrylate (BA) 

This widely adopted acrylic ester provides low‑temperature flexibility and softness and is used to form polymers used in: 

  • adhesives and construction sealants 
  • architectural and industrial coatings 
  • flexible polymer films and binders 

Glacial Acrylic Acid (GAA) 

This reactive carboxylic acid monomer is highly suitable for polymerization and addition reactions. It is used to produce: 

  • hydrogels and superabsorbent polymers 
  • thickeners, flocculants, and dispersants 
  • detergents and water‑treatment intermediates 

Why Choose BASF Acrylic Monomers? 


1. Reliable Global Supply Network 

BASF operates six monomer production sites in major global economic regions, ensuring localized availability, supply security, and reduced logistics vulnerability. 

2. High Consistency & Technical Quality 

Extensive R&D, advanced engineering, and strong product stewardship ensure consistent high‑purity monomers with predictable polymerization characteristics. 

3. Sustainable Production Standards 

BASF manufactures acrylic monomers using processes optimized for energy efficiency, material efficiency, and lower environmental impact, aligning with modern sustainability goals. 

Why Drum Packaging Improves Handling 


ChemPoint supplies BASF acrylic monomers in drums, significantly reducing operational challenges compared to bulk storage. In winter months, when many acrylic monomers tend to freeze, drums simplify thawing logistics, reduce the requirements of heated infrastructure, and create safer transport and storage considerations. 


Our technical experts can recommend the best BASF acrylic monomer or monomer blend for your formulation goals. Click below to request a sample or pricing to get started. 

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