VAM is relatively stable under normal conditions but may self-polymerize at high temperatures. It requires inhibitors such as hydroquinone to prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport.

Over 95% of the world's Vinyl Acetate Monomer is produced via the catalytic hydrogenation of acetylene. In this process, acetylene gas and methanol are fed into a reactor along with a palladium or nickel catalyst. The acetylene inserts into the methanol through addition reactions to form VAM. Side reactions are minimized through careful control of temperature, pressure, and stoichiometry. Annual global VAM production capacity exceeds 6 million tons.

Emerging applications investigate VAM incorporation into bioplastics, hydrogels, and amphiphilic systems by copolymerizing with natural oils, acrylates, or other functional monomers. VAM fuel cell membranes, superabsorbent materials, and ionic liquids also show promise. Always, the pendant acetate groups impart key adhesive and film-forming attributes while the vinyl moiety allows for copolymer design flexibility.

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