2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate

2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) is a monomer that is widely used in the field of material synthesis for the production of various types of polymers, such as hydrogels, coatings, adhesives, and thermosets. Its versatility lies in its ability to copolymerize with a variety of monomers, resulting in a wide range of polymer properties and applications. Its main use is in the production of hydrogels, which are highly absorbent and can be used in wound dressings, contact lenses, drug delivery systems, and other biomedical applications. Additionally, 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate-based coatings and adhesives are used in various surface modification and bonding applications, owing to their excellent adhesion, flexibility, and chemical resistance properties.

Porous hydrogels can be prepared by copolymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate and a cross linking agent. 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate may be used in the synthesis of amphilic block copolymers by nitroxide mediated living radical polymeration. Also, it may be used to prepare tuned poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate) by atom transfer radical polymerization.