Polymerization of methylidene malonate monomer for topical skin approximation

This entry describes the anionic polymerization of methylidene malonate monomers (particularly diethyl methylidene malonate, DEMM) used in topical skin adhesive applications. Methylidene malonates are 1,1-disubstituted alkenes that undergo rapid anionic polymerization at room temperature when initiated by weak nucleophiles such as carboxylate salts, hydroxide ions, boronic acids, or phenolates[1][4]. The polymerization can occur in the presence of air and water, with the reaction being pH-dependent and occurring at pH values of 4 or greater[1]. Commercial products like BondEase use methylidene malonate formulations for topical skin closure[8]. The polymer forms cross-linked coatings that can be chemically grafted to substrates[3][5]. This is a materials chemistry application for medical adhesives rather than a biological therapeutic target.

Other names

Methylene malonate polymerizationMethylidene malonate polymerizationDiethyl methylidene malonate polymerization (DEMM polymerization)Poly(methylidene malonate)pMM

Anionic polymerization initiated by weak nucleophiles (carboxylate salts, hydroxide ions, boronic acids, phenolates) - Room temperature polymerization in presence of air and water - pH-dependent polymerization (occurs at pH ≥ 4) - Covalent cross-linking for coating applications