4-Hydroxybutyl acrylate is a key reactive monomer in light-curable (UV/EB) coatings, inks, and adhesives. As a reactive diluent, it effectively reduces system viscosity and improves application properties while offering a rapid curing rate.
In the modification of epoxy resins, 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate serves as a modifying monomer, reducing the brittleness of the epoxy resin and enhancing its toughness and chemical resistance.
In the biomedical field, leveraging its excellent biocompatibility and polymerizability, it is utilized in the preparation of hydrogels, sustained-release drug carriers, and tissue engineering scaffolds.
In the cosmetics industry, it functions as an emulsifier, humectant, and rheology modifier, improving the sensory feel of the product during use.
In the textile industry, it is employed in fabric finishing processes to enhance the water-repellent and oil-repellent properties of textiles.
Furthermore, owing to its good water solubility, 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate is widely used in the formulation of water-based light-curable coatings; this contributes to reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, thereby meeting environmental protection standards.