Skin Sensitization

Most methacrylate esters can cause skin sensitization (contact allergic dermatitis), sometimes referred to as skin allergy in humans. In addition, methacrylate esters have been shown to cross-react with other methacrylates esters so it is possible that one ester may cause the allergy and a different ester cause the skin response (rash) to occur. A person with skin sensitization caused by a methacrylate ester will not necessarily react to an acrylate esters and visa versa. MMA is the most commonly used methacrylate ester so there is more information on this chemical than on any of the other methacrylate esters. All methacrylate esters including the short chain esters (MMA, EMA, nBMA, iBMA and 2-EHMA) are capable of undergoing Michael Addition Reaction and as a consequence have a weak potential to cause skin sensitization after contact with concentrated liquid monomer or frequent and/or prolonged skin contact . The generally weak potency of methacrylate esters can be modulated by physico-chemical properties that can reduce the penetration rate of the chemicals into the skin. Because of this MPA recommends that skin contact with liquid monomer is always avoided — wear protective gloves. For more information: Skin Sensitization Technical Summary

Methacrylic Acid does not undergo Michael Addition reaction in the same way as its esters and consequently does not cause skin sensitization. MAA is however corrosive to skin so appropriate protective equipment including gloves should always be used - please refer to the Methacrylic Acid Safe Handling Manual.

For additional information, see the following:

• Assessment of the Skin Sensitizing Potency of the Lower Alkyl Methacrylate Esters

• The Activity of Methacrylate Esters in Skin Sensitisation Test Methods: A Review

• The Activity of Methacrylate Esters in Skin Sensitization Test Methods II. A Review of Complementary and Additional Analyses

• Methacrylate Polymers Do Not Cause Skin Sensitization When Handled

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