Methyl methacrylate is an organic compound derived from methacrylic acid, which belongs to the class of acrylic acids. It is a highly reactive monomer and is commonly used in the production of polymers, specifically poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). It is also used to synthesize various poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) materials, which are transparent, hard, and durable. These materials have a wide range of applications, including optical lenses, optoelectronic devices, automotive parts, and medical devices. It is also a good solvent for several polymers and provides high adhesive strength.

Methyl methacrylate can be used as a monomer to prepare:

• Lanthanide-complex grafted poly(methyl methacrylate-co-maleic anhydride) copolymer. These luminescent polymers exhibit high thermal stability and can be used as luminous layers for optoelectronic devices.
• Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), is a common material used in the production of lenses for concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) modules.
• Polymethyl methacrylate, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, and methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymers. These polymers are used in cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and joint replacement.
• Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based personalized medical devices.

Methyl methacrylate can be used as a monomer to prepare:

• Interpenetrating methyl methacrylate-based polymeric networks with enhanced thermal and mechanical properties.
• Poly(methyl methacrylate-co-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PMMA-co-PHEMA) copolymers by emulsion copolymerization. These copolymers form thermooxidatively stable and ductile films.
• Poly(methyl methacrylate) nanoparticles through differential microemulsion polymerization.