Ethyl acetate

What is Ethyl acetate?

ArChem Ethyl Acetate is a colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet smell. It is the ester of ethanol and acetic acid with the chemical formula of C4H8O2. Ethyl Acetate is commonly used as a solvent, especially for paints, varnishes, lacquers, cleaning mixtures, and perfumes.

This product is highly miscible with all common organic solvents (alcohols, ketones, esters) and only slightly miscibility in water. Its solubility in water is 8.3 g/100 mL (at 20 °C).

Ethyl acetate Technical Properties

ArChem Ethyl acetate is also known as ethyl ethanoate, acetic acid ethyl ester, 1-acetoxyethane. It is generally abbreviated as EtOAC, ETAC, and EA. Chemical and physical properties of ArChem Ethyl Acetate are:

Ethyl acetate Applications

ArChem Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in different industries. Due to its low cost, low toxicity, and pleasant odor, it is preferred to other solvents. Some of ArChem Ethyl acetate uses include:

• Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in making paints, lacquers, varnishes, cleaning liquids, smokeless powder, photographic films, etc.
• Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in printing inks.
• Ethyl acetate is used in nail polish, nail polish remover, and perfumes in the Cosmetic Industry.
• Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in laboratories for column chromatography and extractions.
• Ethyl acetate is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry.
• Ethyl acetate is used in the decaffeination of coffee beans and tea leaves.
• Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry.

Ethyl acetate Production

Ethyl Acetate is synthesized by the Fischer esterification reaction. In this reaction, ethanol and acetic acid are used as reactants.

CH3CO2H + CH3CH2OH → CH3CO2CH2CH3 + H2O

In industries, it is also produced commercially via the Tishchenko method of condensing two equivalents of acetaldehyde using an alkoxide catalyst. The reaction is given below:

2 CH3CHO → CH3CO2CH2CH3

Ethyl acetate Storage

Storage conditions of Ethyl Acetate are listed below:

• Ethyl Acetate should be stored in containers made of stainless steel, aluminum or carbon steel.
• this product should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated facility away from oxidizing agents.
• Ethyl acetate should be kept out of direct sunlight, heat and flames.

 Brief Information About Ethyl acetate

Ethyl acetate Health Hazards

Ethyl Acetate is a highly flammable liquid, as well as toxic when inhaled. This chemical also causes irritation when it comes into contact with the eyes or skin. Some of the hazardous effects are listed below:

• Regular use of Ethyl Acetate causes irritation in eyes, nose and throat. Plus, it can cause drowsiness and unconsciousness.
• Ethyl Acetate can irritate the skin as well. Repeated contact can cause drying and cracking of the skin and Long-term exposure can affect the liver and kidneys.

Personal protective equipment should be worn when handling Ethyl Acetate. Plus, Eye protection must be worn at all times. If contaminated, hands should be washed immediately, and clothing should be removed and replaced.

FAQ

What is the use of ethyl acetate?

Ethyl acetate is a chemical solvent, especially for paints, varnishes, lacquers, and cleaning mixtures.

What is the common name for ethyl acetate?

Ethyl ethanoate

Is ethyl acetate poisonous?

Ethyl acetate is toxic to the central nervous system. prolonged exposures can cause irritation and corneal clouding.

Is ethyl acetate an explosive?

It is highly flammable. Heating will cause a rise in pressure with the risk of bursting.

Is ethyl acetate harmful if inhaled?

Breathing ethyl acetate can irritate the nose and throat. High exposure can cause unconsciousness.

What are the safety precautions for ethyl acetate?

When handling ethyl acetate, it is recommended that you wear safety glasses, gloves, and a vapor respirator. In the case of inhalation, Seek fresh air immediately. If breathing is absent, seek medical attention immediately.

Why is ethyl acetate used in paint?

Due to its low toxicity, ethyl acetate is used as a solvent in inks and paints. Its main function is to dissolve the resin, control the viscosity and modify the drying rate.