Decomposition products of polymethyl methacrylate

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a widely used synthetic polymer. When PMMA decomposes, the following decomposition products may be produced:
1. Methane (CH4): At high temperatures, PMMA can undergo thermal decomposition reactions to generate methane gas.
2. Formaldehyde (HCHO) and formic acid (HCOOH): During the pyrolysis process of PMMA, organic compounds such as formaldehyde and formic acid may also be generated.
3. Carbon dioxide (CO2): When PMMA decomposes under high temperature conditions, it releases carbon dioxide gas.
4. Low molecular weight volatile compounds: During the decomposition of PMMA, some low molecular weight volatile organic compounds such as ketones, alcohols, esters, etc. may also be generated.
It should be noted that the decomposition products of PMMA may be affected by decomposition conditions, temperature, oxygen concentration, and other factors, and different decomposition methods may generate different products. Therefore, in practical situations, the specific decomposition products may vary. When processing or disposing of PMMA, the properties and environmental impacts of these decomposition products should be taken into account, and appropriate measures should be taken to reduce or treat the emissions and impacts of these products.