Chemistry & ProductsQuestion 317 of 484
From a molecular standpoint, why does methyl methacrylate (MMA) carry a much higher allergy and damage risk than ethyl methacrylate (EMA) on natural nails?
a.MMA is alkaline and EMA is acidic
b.MMA has a smaller molecule that penetrates the nail plate more easily and bonds too rigidly to the natural nail
c.MMA is water-based while EMA is solvent-based
d.MMA evaporates before it can react
Explanation
MMA's smaller molecular size lets it diffuse into the nail plate and surrounding skin, increasing sensitization risk, and it cures into an extremely hard, inflexible film that can tear the natural nail off if bumped. For these reasons California's BPC §7315 bans MMA monomer on clients; EMA is the legal acrylic monomer.
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