ethylene acrylic acid

chemical compound

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July 20, 2026

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Ethylene acrylic acid is a type of ionomer, which is a polymer formed by the copolymerization of ethylene with acrylic acid. This process involves free-radical catalysts and results in repeating units that include acidic carboxyl groups. These groups are neutralized to form polar ionic clusters along the polyethylene chains, which stiffen and toughen the plastic without compromising its moldability.1

These ionomers are transparent, semicrystalline, and resistant to moisture. They find applications in automotive parts, packaging film, footwear, surface coatings, and carpet backing. A notable example is Surlyn, an ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymer used for durable golf ball covers.1

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polyethylene
Ethylene copolymers
Ethylene-acrylic acid and ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers are prepared by suspension or emulsion polymerization, using free-radical catalysts. The acrylic acid and methacrylic acid repeating units, making up 5 to 20 percent of the copolymers, have the following structures:
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Ethylene-acrylic acid and ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers are prepared by suspension or emulsion polymerization, using free-radical catalysts. The acrylic acid and methacrylic acid repeating units, making up 5 to 20 percent of the copolymers, have the following structures:
Read More