Ethyl methacrylate (EMA) is a type of acrylic monomer (liquid) that is used in most acrylic systems.
According to Peter DeSantis of chemical manufacturer DeEnterprises, EMA is considered a methacrylic acid ethyl ester. It is the main ingredient in most nail acrylic monomers. Most legal acrylic monomers consist of EMA in the range of 70%-90%. By blending other components into the EMA, a manufacturer can control curing time, flexibility, adhesion, yellowing, clarity, color and odor.
Required Reading
April 1, 2000
The Safety and Standards Committee of the Nail Manufacturers Council (NMC) has issued its final report on ethyl methacrylate (EMA), the chemical most common in acrylic monomers.
October 1, 1999
Not to be confused with MMA, EMA has been deemed safe for professional use and consumer contact.
October 1, 1996
Whether you call it “dental acrylic,” “porcelain,” or methyl methacrylate (its proper name), there should be no question any longer that MMA does not belong on human fingernails. T
