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 has a smaller molecule that penetrates the nail plate more easily and bonds too rigidly to the natural nail
b.MMA is alkaline and EMA is acidic
c.MMA evaporates before it can react
d.MMA is water-based while EMA is solvent-based
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.
Law Reference: BPC §7315Practice all 484 questions free — no signup required.
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