Methyl acetate is a clear colorless liquid with a fragrant odor. It is an ester and it is acidic in nature. Methyl acetate consists of 3 carbon atoms, 6 Hydrogen atoms, and 2 Oxygen atoms. It is a flammable liquid with a pleasant odour that recalls glues and nail polish removers.
Methyl acetate is used as a solvent in glue, paint and nail polish remover, in organic synthesis and for extractions.
Characterization of Methyl Acetate
Methyl acetate (also known as methyl ethanoate, acetic acid methyl ester) is a carboxylate ester with a molecular formula of C3H6O2. It is very flammable with a flammability rating of 3. Methyl acetate is highly miscible with all common organic solvents (alcohols, ketones, glycols, esters) but has slight miscibility in water. Methyl acetate specifications include:
- Its molar mass is 07 g. mol-1.
- Its melting point is -98 ℃.
- Its boiling point is 8 ℃.
- Its density is 932 g/cm³.
What are the advantages of Methyl Acetate?
Methyl acetate is a volatile compound and a non-hazardous air pollutant. Another benefit of using Methyl Acetate instead of Acetone is that it provides higher electrical resistance which is more efficient for coating applied by electrostatic. Some advantages of Methyl acetate include:
- Excellent solvent activity
- Fast evaporation rate
- High electrical resistance
- Low odor
- Readily biodegradable
Applications of Methyl Acetate
Industry uses of methyl ethanoate involve the reaction of carbonylation to produce acetic anhydride. It is also used in paint and coating adhesives, lubricants, intermediates, processing aids and as a solvent in paint, glue, nail polish and graffiti removers. Different uses of Methyl acetate in various industries include:
- Methyl acetate is utilized as a flavouring ingredient in food additions because of its pleasant aroma.
- It is used for coatings, such as on automobiles, furniture, and industrial equipment.
- Methyl acetate is used in cleaning, personal care, and cosmetics.
- Methyl acetate is used in glue, paint, and nail polish removers.
- Methyl acetate is used as a chemical intermediary in the production of phenylacetone and other compounds.
- Methyl acetate is used as an intermediate in the production of cellulose adhesives and fragrances.
Please contact us for a price quote, to request detailed product information and specifications, or to have a sales representative call or visit.
Methyl Acetate production
The industrial method of Methyl acetate production is carbonylation. To produce methyl acetate, methanol is heated alongside acetic acid in the presence of sulfuric acid. Another method of production is the esterification of methanol and acetic acid in the presence of a strong acid. Sulfuric acid is a common catalyst also used in this reaction.
Methyl Acetate storage
Methyl acetate should be stored in special areas for flammable liquids. Other storage conditions include:
- Methyl acetate should be kept in tightly enclosed containers made of stainless steel, aluminium or carbon steel.
- It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Methyl acetate should be kept out of direct sunlight, heat, open flames and away from strong acids and alkalis, nitrates and strong oxidizers.
Methyl Acetate health hazards
If Methyl acetate is inhaled or ingested, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness and fatigue can occur. Plus, Methyl acetate contact with the eyes can cause irritation. It has a flammability rating of 3 and can be ignited under most ambient temperature conditions.
Personal protective equipment should be worn at all times when handling Methyl acetate to prevent contact with the skin, eyes, nose and throat. In the case of skin contact, immediately wash the contaminated area with water and seek medical attention. In the case of eye contact, immediately wash your eyes with large amounts of water and seek medical attention.
FAQ
What is Methyl Acetate?
Methyl Acetate is a colourless liquid with a fruity odour. It is used as a solvent in lacquers, paint removers and to make pharmaceuticals.
What is Methyl Acetate used for?
Methyl acetate is commonly used in low-toxicity solvents such as glues and nail polish removers.
Is Methyl Acetate toxic?
Breathing Methyl Acetate can irritate the lungs causing coughing and shortness of breath. Higher exposures can cause a build-up of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema), a medical emergency, with severe shortness of breath.
What is the chemical formula of Methyl Acetate?
The chemical formula of Methyl acetate is C3H6O2. It is a colourless volatile liquid with a pleasant odour. It is formed from the condensation of acetic acid and methanol.