Acrylic (and Methacrylic) Acid Polymers

Abstract Acrylic polymers are widely used because of their unique properties. This article selectively focuses on polymers that contain acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid. Their content ranges from <5 wt% to 100 wt% for use in applications such as adhesives, coatings, water‐soluble specialties, and superabsorbent gels. Acidic monomer selection and use may be based on monomer properties and characteristics, but is frequently based only on cost and availability, and this generally tips the choice to acrylic acid. As described, many polymer applications require optimized compositions and molecular weights that are uniquely available only by one of several different polymerization processes such as solution, emulsion, and graft, so as to accomplish commercial viability.