The application of 12-Methacryloyldodecylphosphate is highly specialized and revolves primarily around its use as a key chemical component in dental and orthopedic materials.
Its value comes from its unique molecular structure, which combines three critical features:
A methacrylate group – Allows it to participate in free-radical polymerization (e.g., with resins like Bis-GMA).
A long alkyl chain (dodecyl group) – Provides hydrophobicity and can aid in solubility and integration with resin systems.
A phosphate group – Chemically bonds to metal oxides, particularly calcium in hydroxyapatite (the main mineral in teeth and bone).
This combination makes it an exceptional adhesive monomer.
Primary Applications
1. Dental Adhesives and Restorative Materials (Most Significant Use)
This is the dominant application for 12-Methacryloyldodecylphosphate (often abbreviated as MDP).
Examples: It is a critical ingredient in many modern:
Dental cements (e.g., Panavia™, by Kuraray Noritake, is famous for its use of MDP).
Universal adhesives for composite fillings.
Primers for bonding crowns, bridges, and veneers.
2. Orthopedic Bone Cements and Adhesives
The same adhesion principle applies to bone.
Function: Enhance bonding between bone and orthopedic implants/cements.
How it works: The phosphate group bonds to the calcium in bone mineral (hydroxyapatite), while the methacrylate group incorporates into the polymer matrix of the bone cement or coating.
Goal: To create a stronger, more stable interface between an artificial implant (e.g., a knee or hip replacement) and the natural bone, potentially improving implant longevity and reducing loosening.
3. Surface Modification
MDP is used as a coupling agent to modify the surface of calcium-based materials (e.g., hydroxyapatite fillers, glass ionomers) to improve their compatibility and bond strength with hydrophobic polymer resins.
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