Monomethyl Adipate is an organic chemical compound shaped by the mono-esterification of adipic acid with methanol. Its molecular formula comes in as C7H12O4, representing a molecule with seven carbons, twelve hydrogens, and four oxygens. MMA falls under the family of esters, making it useful across several chemical industries. Adipate esters draw attention in synthesis and formulation steps, especially for applications involving solvents, lubricants, and plasticizer intermediates.
MMA’s structure features a six-carbon straight-chain dicarboxylic acid backbone—adipic acid—capped with a methyl ester at one end and a free carboxylic acid group at the other. As an individual molecule, the arrangement leads to specific physical characteristics that shape its uses across research and manufacturing. The balance of polar functionalities gives MMA moderate solubility in water and better solubility in many organic solvents. Pure MMA at room temperature appears as a clear to slightly yellow liquid, sometimes available in low-melting solid flakes or crystalline powder form depending on storage temperature and method of purification. The liquid phase carries a faint ester scent, somewhat fruity, hinting at its origins and usefulness wherever a mild, less-volatile solvent is needed.
The density of monomethyl adipate lands around 1.14 grams per cubic centimeter at 20°C. Its melting point tends to hover close to -3°C, while boiling point stretches above 236°C, offering fairly robust thermal stability. In practical use, MMA can flow freely as a liquid or crystallize under cold storage, adding to its ease of handling and versatility. As a solid, it forms colorless flakes or, with controlled crystallization, shimmery pearls. Many labs and factories prefer the liquid form, packaged by the liter for easier measurement and mixing, though powders and crystals serve specialized synthetic steps needing accurate dosing. Solubility in common solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and diethyl ether further boosts its attraction as a raw material.
Commercial MMA must meet strict specifications for purity and moisture content, often set at 98% minimum purity, as small impurities can skew downstream chemical reactions. Trace water content matters because hydrolysis could shift the ester back to adipic acid over time. Producers run careful spectrographic checks to ensure consistency. Monomethyl Adipate typically goes to market under Harmonized System (HS) Code 29171200, grouping it with other esters of adipic acid for customs and trade regulation purposes. This code helps shippers and trade partners flag the material for proper handling and compliance.
MMA counts as a moderate chemical in its hazard profile, not fitting the definition of highly hazardous nor flagged for acute toxicity under most global regulatory frameworks. Direct skin or eye contact may cause mild irritation, while inhalation of dense vapor in non-ventilated spaces might trigger headaches or minor respiratory discomfort. As a raw material, MMA does not share the harmful, persistent properties of some plasticizers but still benefits from safe work protocols. Storage away from strong oxidizers, acids, or open flames reduces risk even further. Local Material Safety Data Sheets advise on PPE, spill management, and disposal routes. Following these keeps workplaces safe and meets Responsible Care standards.
In my experience working alongside chemical engineers and on projects in coatings and polymers, I’ve seen monomethyl adipate step up wherever gentle solvency and low environmental impact are valued. It acts as a building block for high-grade lubricants, specialty polyester resins, and plastic modification steps, serving as a bridge between bio-based and conventional formulations. The ester chemistry, with its low tox profile and ease of handling, often allows R&D teams to pursue greener pathways in product development, making MMA a contender for future-focused materials.
As the world moves toward safer, more sustainable raw materials, MMA provides a case for how chemical standards and workplace awareness matter. Broad adoption of closed-system transfers, robust PPE, and improved leak detection have come from industry lessons about the importance of practical safety. Facilities benefit from routine training and clear hazard labels. Tackling waste with onsite distillation—rather than disposal—can cut costs and environmental impact. Continuous improvement through worker feedback, regulatory audits, and product stewardship helps keep MMA use both innovative and responsible.
Molecular Formula: C7H12O4
Molecular Weight: 160.17 g/mol
Physical Form: Liquid, flakes, powder, pearls, or crystals, depending on temperature
Density: ~1.14 g/cm³ at 20°C
Boiling Point: 236-240°C
Melting Point: -3°C
HS Code: 29171200
Solubility: Moderate in water, high in organic solvents
Safety: Mild irritant, not classified as acutely toxic
Main Applications: Solvent, intermediate in synthesis, additive in lubricants, contributor to resin and plastic manufacturing
Raw Materials: Adipic acid and methanol
Color: Colorless to pale yellow (liquid form)
Odor: Faint, ester-like
