Merck, 276685-500ML, Methacrylic anhydride

Methacrylic anhydride is an organic compound derived from methacrylic acid, which belongs to the class of acrylic acids. It is primarily employed as a monomer in the production of polymers, particularly poly(methacrylic acid) and its copolymers. These polymers find applications in a wide range of industries, including bio-renewable resins, pH-sensitive hydrogels, thermosets, coatings, adhesives, and plastics, due to their excellent chemical and thermal stability. In the polymerization of methacrylic anhydride, the most common inhibitor used is Topanol A. It is typically added in small quantities (2,000 ppm) to hinder undesirable side reactions during the polymerization, ensuring controlled and high-quality polymer formation.