Cas No: 79-20-9
EINESC No: 201-185-2
Molecular weight: 74,08 g/mol
Chemical Formula: C3H6O2
Chemical Structure:
Physical Properties
General Properties: colorless liquid
Odor: fruity
Intensity: 0.932 g/cm3
Boiling point: 118 °C
Melting point: -99 °C
Flash point: 56,9 °C
Vapor pressure: 173 mmHg
Refraction index: 1.361 nD
Solubility (aqueous) 25 g/ 100 mL
General Properties
Methyl acetate, or methyl ethanoate, is a carboxylic ester. It has a pleasant odor that is familiar to certain glues or acetones. Although it is used as lipophilic solvent sometimes, ethyl acetate is preferred as solvent for its low toxicity and its less-soluble in water.
Production
Methyl acetate is produced by carbonylation of methanol. It is also formed by esterification of methanol and acetic acid in presence of strong acids such as sulphuric acid.
This production process of Eastman Kodak, which uses reactive distillation, is quite famous.
Applications
Methyl acetate is used as volatile solvent in industry. It is used cellulosid glue production. It works as viscosity reeducer in lack production. Certain parfumes and acetons contain methyl acetate
Safety Measures and Toxic Values
Methyl acetate does not cause serious health problems in lower concentrations. However, it is hazardous in higher concentrations. It may cause dryness or cracks on skin. If it is inhaled, it may cause nausea or vertigo.
Methyl acetate is flammable and it must be mixed with oxidising agents with care. In high temperatures, it may form explosive mixtures in air. It must be stored in tightly closed containers.