Methyl methacrylate flammability limits

In spite of this impressive list of characteristics the use of reactive acrylic adhesives has been limited to selected high-performance adhesive markets. Their growth otherwise, has been less rapid than expected (10). One of the principal reasons is due to the toxicity characteristics associated with methyl methacrylate and methacrylic acid monomers, major formulation constituents of "second-generation" acrylic adhesives, with regard to inhalation, ingestion and skin contact. Compositions containing large quantities of these monomers have been rejected on certain production lines such as automotive assembly. The low flash point and resultant flammability hazard have also been important contributors to the restricted use of modified acrylic adhesives (9 and 11). 

One of the hazards uniquely associated with the production of methacrylic powders and sheets is explosion of polymer dust. These materials are flammable and must be treated with care to avoid static discharges which can serve as ignition sources. Poly(methyl methacrylate) is widely used in buildings imder codes which limit the fire hazards associated with this material. Solution polymers of methacrylic esters are considered flammable while latex emulsion polymers are nonflammable because of the aqueous continuous phase. 

Methyl Methacrylate — Rre Hazards Flash Point (deg. F) 50 OC Flammable Limits in Air (%) 2.1 -12.5 Fire Extinguishing Agents Foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical Fire Extinguishing Agents Not To Be Used Water may be ineffective Special Hazards of Combustion... 

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