Comprehensive analysis of acrylates: industrial applications and potential health effects

Acrylates are a diverse group of chemical compounds valued for their transparency, flexibility, strength, hardness, and polymerisation capacity. They are widely used in medicine, dentistry, ophthalmic devices, antimicrobial materials, tissue engineering, cosmetics, coatings, adhesives, agriculture, and other industrial sectors. This review analyses the main applications of selected acrylates and acrylate-based polymers, together with their potential effects on human health, with particular emphasis on respiratory, dermatological, and allergic outcomes. Peer-reviewed literature published mainly between 2015 and 2025 was reviewed, with older foundational studies included where necessary for methodological or toxicological context. The reviewed evidence indicates that advanced polymerisation techniques, surface-modification strategies, and incorporation of bioactive or reinforcing agents have improved the functionality and biocompatibility of several acrylate-based materials. However, occupational and environmental exposure to selected acrylate monomers or polymers may be associated with respiratory irritation, pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis, allergic contact dermatitis, oxidative stress, and possible accumulation in organs such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs. The findings underline the dual importance of acrylates as valuable technological materials and potential health hazards. This review may therefore be useful for healthcare professionals, researchers, and industries involved in the design, handling, or regulation of acrylate-based products, and supports the need for improved exposure control, safer material design, and updated safety guidelines.