It is used commercially on a large scale as a precursor to poly(butyl acrylate).

Especially as copolymers, such materials are used in paints, sealants, coatings, adhesives, fuel, textiles, plastics, and caulk.

[4] In rodent models, butyl acrylate is metabolized by carboxylesterase or reactions with glutathione; this detoxification produces acrylic acid, butanol, and mercapturic acid waste, which are excreted.

[5][6][7] Exposure can occur through inhalation, skin and/or eye contact absorption, and ingestion.

[8] Symptoms may be dependent on exposure route, with skin and eye contact manifesting in redness, pain, and sensitivity; inhalation resulting in burning sensations, cough, shortness of breath, and sore throat; and ingestion resulting in abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.