Acrylamide
[CAS# 79-06-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Antibiotics >> Aminoglycoside
• Name: Acrylamide
• Synonyms: Ethylenecarboxamide; 2-Propenamide
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₅NO
• Molecular Weight: 71.08
• CAS Registry Number: 79-06-1
• EC Number: 201-173-7
• SMILES: C=CC(=O)N

Properties

• Density: 1.322 g/mL
• Melting point: 82-86 °C
• Refractive index: 1.46
• Boiling point: 125 °C (25 mmHg)
• Flash point: 138 °C
• Water solubility: Soluble, 216 g/100 mL

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS06;GHS08 Danger
• Risk Statements: H350-H340-H361f-H301-H332-H312-H372-H315-H319-H317
• Safety Statements: P264-P270-P301+P317-P330-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Germ cell mutagenicity	Muta.	1B	H340
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	1B	H350
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H372
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361f
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H300
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H301
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H320
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H312
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H370
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361fd
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361f

• Transport Information: UN 2074

Discovery and Applications

Acrylamide is an organic compound that has gained considerable attention since its discovery due to its wide-ranging applications in various industrial and scientific fields. This colorless, odorless solid is soluble in water and is primarily known for its role as a monomer in the production of polyacrylamide, a polymer widely used in water treatment, paper manufacturing, and as a flocculating agent.

The discovery of acrylamide dates back to the mid-19th century, with early studies documenting its formation through the polymerization of acrylonitrile. However, its significant industrial applications began in the 1950s when researchers identified its potential for producing polymers with desirable properties. The ability of acrylamide to polymerize readily in the presence of initiators has made it a valuable compound in creating versatile polymeric materials.

One of the primary applications of acrylamide is in the water treatment industry, where it is used to create polyacrylamide gels. These gels serve as effective flocculants, facilitating the aggregation of suspended particles in water, thereby improving water clarity and quality. This application is crucial in municipal water treatment plants, as well as in industries such as mining and petroleum, where the removal of contaminants from water is essential.

In addition to its use in water treatment, acrylamide is utilized in the paper industry to enhance the strength and quality of paper products. When used in papermaking, polyacrylamide contributes to improved fiber bonding, which results in stronger paper with better performance characteristics. This application is particularly valuable in producing high-quality paper products, including packaging materials and specialty papers.

Acrylamide also finds use in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. It is a key component in the production of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), a widely used technique for separating proteins and nucleic acids based on their size and charge. The ability of polyacrylamide to form gels with variable porosity allows researchers to tailor the gel’s properties to their specific needs, making it an essential tool in laboratories around the world.

However, the use of acrylamide is not without controversy. In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlighted concerns regarding the potential health risks associated with acrylamide. Studies indicated that acrylamide could form in certain foods during high-temperature cooking processes, such as frying and baking, particularly in starchy foods. This finding led to increased scrutiny of acrylamide levels in food products and prompted recommendations to reduce dietary exposure.

Despite these health concerns, acrylamide remains a critical substance in various industrial applications. The development of safer handling practices and regulations aimed at minimizing exposure in both industrial and food contexts has been implemented to address these risks. Ongoing research continues to explore methods for reducing acrylamide formation in food and improving safety measures in its industrial applications.

The versatility of acrylamide and its derivatives ensures its continued relevance in multiple industries. Innovations in polymer chemistry and engineering are expected to expand its applications further, particularly in creating smart materials, drug delivery systems, and advanced filtration processes.

In conclusion, acrylamide is a significant compound with diverse applications spanning water treatment, paper manufacturing, and biochemistry. Its ability to form polymers has led to its widespread use in various industries, while ongoing research seeks to mitigate potential health risks associated with its use. As regulations evolve and research advances, acrylamide will likely continue to play an essential role in industrial processes and scientific research.

References

1991. Induction of specific-locus mutations in male germ cells of the mouse by acrylamide monomer. Mutation Research Letters, 262(1).
DOI: 10.1016/0165-7992(91)90114-j