Octyl acrylate has a chemical structure defined by the formula CH₂=CH-COO-(CH₂)₇CH₃, consisting of three key components: a vinyl group (CH₂=CH-), a carboxylate ester linkage (-COO-), and an n-octyl alkyl chain (-CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃). The vinyl group contains a reactive double bond (C=C), which is critical for polymerization, allowing octyl acrylate to copolymerize with other monomers (e.g., methyl acrylate, acrylic acid) to form long-chain polymers with tailored properties. The carboxylate ester linkage connects the vinyl group to the octyl chain, influencing polarity and compatibility with other chemicals—this structure balances hydrophobicity (from the octyl chain) and reactivity (from the vinyl group). The n-octyl chain, an 8-carbon linear alkyl group, imparts flexibility and low glass transition temperature (Tg) to polymers, enhancing their elasticity and low-temperature performance, making them suitable for adhesives and coatings requiring flexibility. This structure differentiates octyl acrylate from related monomers: compared to butyl acrylate (4-carbon chain), it has a longer alkyl chain, increasing flexibility; compared to 2-ethylhexyl acrylate (branched 8-carbon chain), its linear structure may slightly improve compatibility with certain polymers. Understanding this structure is key to optimizing its use in formulations, as it directly influences polymerization behavior, polymer properties, and end-application performance.