Chemical Identity and Physical Properties

Propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PMA), also referred to as PGMEA, is the acetate ester of propylene glycol monomethyl ether. Its IUPAC name is 1-methoxy-2-propyl acetate, and it carries CAS number 108-65-6. The compound belongs to the propylene glycol ether acetate family, which is regarded as toxicologically safer than the analogous ethylene glycol ether series.

Key physical characteristics include a boiling point of approximately 146 °C, a density near 0.97 g/mL at 25 °C, and miscibility with a broad range of organic solvents including alcohols, ketones, and aromatic hydrocarbons. PMA is only slightly soluble in water. Its relatively slow evaporation rate—compared to acetone or ethyl acetate—makes it particularly suitable for applications requiring extended open times, such as spray coatings and screen printing inks.

Note: Exact purity specifications and analytical data for Aladdin SKU P1530102 should be confirmed from the product Certificate of Analysis (CoA).

Applications in Research and Industry

Semiconductor and Microelectronics: PMA is one of the most important solvents in photoresist formulations used in photolithography. Its solvency for both novolac and chemically amplified resists, combined with its controlled evaporation rate and low metallic impurity levels in electronic-grade material, make it indispensable in integrated circuit (IC) and flat-panel display manufacturing.

Coatings and Paints: PMA is widely employed as a coalescing and coupling solvent in waterborne and solventborne coatings systems. It improves film formation, pigment wetting, and flow characteristics. Its low odor intensity and relatively favorable regulatory status compared to aromatic solvents drive adoption in architectural and industrial coatings.

Inks and Adhesives: In printing inks, PMA provides controlled drying and excellent resin compatibility. It is also used in pressure-sensitive and structural adhesives where resin dissolution and open-time control are critical.

Laboratory Research: Researchers use PMA as a reaction solvent or co-solvent for polymer synthesis, organic reactions, and nanoparticle dispersion where a medium-boiling, polar aprotic–like environment is beneficial.

Safety, Handling, and Storage

Flammability: PMA is a flammable liquid (flash point approximately 42–47 °C, closed cup). It must be stored away from heat sources, open flames, and oxidizing agents. Containers should be kept tightly sealed.

Health Hazards: Unlike ethylene glycol ethers, propylene glycol ether acetates are not classified as reproductive toxicants under major regulatory frameworks (e.g., EU CLP, US OSHA HazCom). Nonetheless, prolonged inhalation of high vapor concentrations should be avoided. Use in well-ventilated areas or with appropriate local exhaust ventilation. Skin and eye contact should be minimized; wear appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses.

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, at temperatures between 15 °C and 25 °C. Use grounded metal containers to minimize static discharge risk.

Disposal: Dispose of PMA waste in accordance with local regulations for flammable organic solvents. Do not pour down drains.

Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for SKU P1530102 before use.

Purity Grades and Selection Guidance

PMA is commercially available in several purity grades tailored to different end uses:

• Technical/Industrial Grade: Suitable for coatings, inks, and adhesives where trace impurities are acceptable. Typically ≥98% purity.
• High-Purity / Reagent Grade: Used in laboratory research, analytical methods, and polymer synthesis. Impurity profiles are controlled to avoid interference with sensitive assays or reactions.
• Electronic/Semiconductor Grade (ULSI): Subjected to stringent metal ion filtration and particle count specifications. Required for photoresist and CMP slurry applications in IC fabrication.

Aladdin Scientific offers PMA under SKU P1530102. Researchers should consult the product CoA for lot-specific purity, water content, and residue on evaporation data. For semiconductor applications requiring ultra-low metal specifications, contact Aladdin's technical support team to confirm grade availability.