Methyl acetate

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Methyl Acetate is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid with a pleasant, fruity odor. It is an ester formed from methanol and acetic acid and is widely used as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, inks, and cleaning products. Known for its excellent solvency power and fast evaporation rate, methyl acetate is preferred in industrial and commercial applications where quick drying is essential.

Description

Primary Uses

  1. Coatings and Paints

    • Used as a solvent in lacquers, varnishes, and automotive and industrial coatings.

    • Facilitates fast drying and smooth film formation.

  2. Adhesives and Sealants

    • Solvent in adhesive formulations, especially for pressure-sensitive adhesives and contact cements.

  3. Printing Inks

    • Serves as a solvent for inks, enhancing flow properties and drying speed.

  4. Cleaning Products

    • Utilized in industrial and household cleaners and degreasers for efficient removal of oils and greases.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Pharmaceutical Industry

    • Used as a solvent or intermediate in drug manufacturing processes.

  2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

    • Occasionally used as a solvent in perfumes and nail polish removers.

  3. Laboratory Reagent

    • Applied in chemical synthesis and analytical laboratories as a solvent.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

Key Attributes

Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Methyl acetate

  • Common/Trade Name: Methyl Acetate

  • CAS Number: 79-20-9

  • HS Code: 2915.31.00

  • Synonyms: Acetic acid methyl ester; methyl ethanoate

Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Liquid

  • Color & Odor: Colorless; pleasant fruity odor

  • Boiling Point: 56°C

  • Melting Point: -98°C

  • Flash Point: -1°C (closed cup)

  • Density: 0.932 g/cm³ at 20°C

  • Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents

Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Flammable liquid, Category 2

  • Toxicity: Low to moderate toxicity; avoid ingestion and prolonged skin contact

  • Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL - 610 mg/m³ (200 ppm); ACGIH TLV - 200 ppm

Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and incompatible materials

  • Container Type: Supplied in metal drums, plastic containers, or bulk tanks suitable for flammable liquids

  • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage conditions for several years

  • Handling Precautions: Use flame-proof equipment; avoid inhalation and skin contact; wear appropriate PPE

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with international chemical safety standards and regulations (e.g., REACH, OSHA)

  • Listed on major chemical inventories worldwide

 

Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

  • Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when used as directed

  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation

Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and flame-resistant clothing recommended

  • Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; prevent vapor accumulation; ground and bond containers during transfer

  • Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible substances

 

First Aid Measures

  1. Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur

  2. Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with soap and water

  3. Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists

  4. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapor

  • Extinguishing Media: Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers

  • Special Precautions: Evacuate area; wear full protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus

Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases under fire conditions