Polarographic determination of methyl methacrylate

The permanganate oxidation of methyl methacrylate in weakly acidic solution yields methyl pyruvate. Hydroxylamine hydrochloride is used for destroying the excess of permanganate. At the same time it is consumed for oximation of the pyruvate, and the resulting oxime is determined polarographically. The reaction scheme of permanganate oxidation of methyl methacrylate is suggested and optimum working conditions are found both for permanganate oxidation and for polarographic determination. The method is used for the determination of vapours of methyl methacrylate in the air, for industrial hygiene purposes.