Sustainability Spotlight Assessing the Environmental Impact of Methacrylate Adhesives.docx

1. Sustainability Spotlight: Assessing the Environmental Impact of Methacrylate Adhesives People normally use adhesives in the hope of creating a special bond that will hold together almost everything from objects like furniture and broken vases to more complicated structures like turbines and airplanes. There are countless different types of adhesives meant for different materials and purposes; and, among them, the one that is known to stand out because of its quick curing time, outstanding strength, and versatility are the MMAs or methacrylate adhesives. But, as you may very well know, like any other product, the journey from raw material to being actually used comes with consequences to our environment. Being able to understand the impacts is important for responsible usage and for the search for greener ways to do things. The Journey Begins With Production The journey of the mighty methacrylate adhesive begins with its vital ingredient: methyl methacrylate. Also known as MMA, it is a monomer – the building block of an adhesive – which comes from petroleum which is not a renewable resource. Almost everyone knows that the extraction and refining of petroleum has major effects on air and water pollution. Also, MMA is classified as a VOC or a volatile organic compound which means it easily evaporates even at room temperature. Emissions from VOCs impacts the quality of the air we breathe and our health as their emissions contribute to the formation of fog and ground-level ozone. Producing methacrylate adhesives involves the use of resources and generation of waste. Manufacturing facilities will require energy which is often derived from the use of fossil fuels which increase emissions of greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change. It’s Uses and Application When you use methacrylate adhesives, the curing process can release more VOCs into the environment as well as other chemicals which means you will need to have adequate ventilation and are potentially contributing to air pollution in your local area. There is also the matter of unused and/or expired adhesives which can often become hazardous waste making it a challenge to properly dispose of as there are risks of contaminating soil and groundwater if not properly managed. There Are Also Benefits Compared to other bonding methods, methacrylate adhesives do offer some environmental benefits. Because of their ability to form strong bonds, there is a reduced need to make use of

2. rivets, screws, or other types of mechanical fasteners which require more material and manufacturing processes by themselves. The fast curing times can contribute to lower energy consumption during the assembly process leading to a smaller carbon footprint. Methacrylate adhesives are also well-known for being durable which makes for a product life that lasts long reducing the need for replacements. Use Wisely & Dispose Kindly Even the very best products can be messy if you are not careful when using them. When you make use of methacrylate adhesives, you will need to have proper ventilation to avoid inhaling any harmful fumes. And, as you would never throw leftover adhesives in your garden, disposing of adhesives in a responsible manner is critical to protect the environment. To conclude, methacrylate adhesives give you unmatched bonding strength, convenience, and durability, but their environmental footprint requires some consideration. By ensuring awareness as to their potential impact on the environment and following some simple steps to minimize any negative effects they may have through responsible use, you will be better able to reap the benefits of using them.