Responsible Care Summary

METHYL METHACRYLATE (MMA)

Chemical Identity:

Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) is a methacrylic monomer, and is composed primarily of methyl methacrylate, along with small amounts of the stabilizer methoxyphenol or another stabilizer (refer to MSDS).

Product Uses and Applications:

Rohm and Haas’s MMA is used in the production of polymethyl methacrylate (poly MMA) polymers or copolymers used in the manufacture of acrylic sheet and molding, clear plastics, extrusion powder, acrylic surface and paper coatings, latex paints, printing inks, floor polishes, dental restorations, adhesive cements, and surgical implants.

Physical/Chemical Properties and Safe Handling:

• MMA is a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. Both the liquid and vapor are highly flammable.
• Flash point  8 °C (46 °F) SETAFLASH CLOSED CUP
• Boiling point  101 °C (214 °F)
• Exposure can occur during the handling and transportation of MMA. However, dedicated systems designed to handle MMA are typically used for loading and unloading purposes, and procedures should be in place to prevent spills or leaks during transportation.
• Storage below or equal to 38°C is highly recommended to maintain stability. Minor deviations (7C/13F) above this recommended temperature are acceptable for short periods of time (one week) for material in transit.  Keep out of direct sunlight.
• This product contains an inhibitor (methoxyphenol) to stabilize it during shipment and storage. The effectiveness of the inhibitor is dependent on the presence of dissolved oxygen, and specific precautions must be taken in order to maintain it. Do not store under an oxygen-free environment. Absence of oxygen will inactivate the inhibitor. 
• Comply with MSDS shelf life / maximum storage times for MMA to avoid loss of stability or risk of polymerization.  
• MMA must be stored in containers made of stainless steel, glass, aluminum or carbon steel.  All containers must be kept tightly closed.
• Ground all metal containers during storage and handling for control of static electricity. Be sure to store in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. Limit indoor storage to approved areas equipped with automatic sprinklers.  

Health Information:

• Consumer products contain only trace levels of MMA, therefore consumers are generally not exposed through finished products. Although potential for exposure does exist during the manufacture, transportation, and use of MMA, enclosed systems limit the small exposure to worker populations and nearby communities. Skin contact may result in sensitization. Allergic cross-reactivity to the skin with other (meth)acrylates may occur.
• Primary contact to MMA is through the eyes, skin, mouth and nose, possibly leading to severe irritation and injury. Prolonged or repeated overexposure at near lethal concentrations can cause liver and kidney damage. MMA is not classified as a human carcinogen. 
• Eye contact: Rinse with plenty of water. If eye irritation persists, consult a specialist.
• Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing. Wash off with soap and plenty of water. If skin irritation persists, call a physician. (Wash contaminated clothing before re-use. Leather must be properly disposed, never re-use.)
• Ingestion: Drink 1 or 2 glasses of water. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Consult a physician. If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep airway clear.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Apply oxygen or artificial respiration if needed. Call a physician immediately. Inhalation of vapor or mist is harmful; possibly fatal in high concentrations.
• Chemical resistant goggles and gloves must be worn at all times. A respiratory protection program meeting OSHA 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements or equivalent must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant the use of a respirator.

    HMIS Hazard Ratings

Environmental Information:

• Keep spills and cleaning runoff out of municipal sewers and open bodies of water. Do not allow material to contaminate ground water systems.
• When cleaning spills, remove all sources of ignition. Contain spills immediately with inactive materials (e.g., sand, earth), and transfer liquids and solid diking material to separate suitable containers for recovery or disposal.
• Waste Classification: 40 CFR 261.20 - .24  -  Characteristic Waste   D001
• Ensure all applicable regulations are met.