Acrylate vs. Acrylic — What's the Difference?

Acrylate compounds are derivatives of acrylic acid, characterized by their use in manufacturing adhesives, coatings, and sealants. Whereas acrylic materials, such as acrylic fibers and paints, are well-known for their durability, lightweight, and resistance to weathering and chemicals.

Acrylates form when acrylic acid reacts with alcohols, resulting in a variety of products with specific properties tailored for industrial and consumer applications. On the other hand, acrylic products, such as PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), often referred to as "acrylic glass," offer clarity and are used in applications ranging from optical devices to aquariums.

In the context of art supplies, acrylates are integral in producing acrylic emulsions that serve as binders for acrylic paints, enhancing their adhesion and durability on various surfaces. Meanwhile, acrylic paints themselves are prized for their fast-drying properties, versatility, and vibrant colors, largely attributable to the acrylic polymers they contain.

In the medical field, acrylate polymers are utilized in drug delivery systems and medical adhesives, leveraging their biocompatibility and customizable properties. Conversely, acrylic is used in the manufacture of prosthetics and dental devices, benefiting from its strength and aesthetic qualities.

In textiles, acrylates are often used as finishing agents to enhance fabric properties, such as water resistance and stain repellence. Acrylic fibers, however, are synthetic fibers made from a polymer (polyacrylonitrile) with at least 85% acrylonitrile monomers, offering warmth and lightweight alternatives to wool.