Methyl cyanoacrylate (MCA; also sometimes referred to as α-cyanoacrylate or alpha-cyanoacrylate)[1] is an organic compound that contains several functional groups: a methyl ester, a nitrile, and an alkene. It is a colorless liquid with low viscosity. Its chief use is as the main component of cyanoacrylate glues.[2] It can be encountered under many trade names. Methyl cyanoacrylate is less commonly encountered than ethyl cyanoacrylate.
It is soluble in acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, nitromethane, and dichloromethane.[3] MCA polymerizes rapidly in presence of moisture.
Heating the polymer causes depolymerization of the cured MCA, producing gaseous products which are a strong irritant to the lungs and eyes.With regard to occupational exposure to MCA, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends workers do not exceed exposures over 2 ppm (8 mg/m3) over an eight-hour workshift, or over 4 ppm (16 mg/m3) over a short-term exposure.[4]