1. Properties:

• Appearance and physical form: Methyl acetate is a transparent, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a pleasant fruity odor. Available in various grades: industrial (≥96%), urethane and food grade (FEMA 2676).

• Solubility: Methyl acetate is soluble in water (22–25%) and is completely miscible with most organic solvents, including alcohols, esters, and aromatic hydrocarbons. It is a nonpolar (lipophilic) or weakly polar (hydrophilic) aprotic solvent.

• Chemical properties: Methyl acetate (C₃H₆O₂) is the methyl ester of acetic acid. It is a flammable liquid with a flash point of –15°C to –10°C, with a boiling point of 56.9–58°C and an autoignition temperature of 501°C. Vapors are heavier than air (vapor density 2.55) and can form explosive mixtures with air (explosive limits: 3.1–16% vol.). The compound reacts with strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases. Slowly reacts with water to form acetic acid and methanol. Methyl acetate is solvent without VOC, non-HAP (non-hazardous air pollutant), non-ozone depleting and readily biodegradable. Has a low MIR value (0.07).

2. Applications:

• Paints, coatings and printing inks (main – largest application): Methyl acetate is widely used as a fast-evaporating active solvent in aerosol coatings, automotive coatings, marine coatings, wood coatings, and industrial coatings. It is an effective solvent in printing inks. Excellent solvent for nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate butyrate, vinyl copolymers, acrylics, epoxy resins, polyamides, phenolic resins, alkyds, and polyesters. Used in paint thinners and nail polish removers.

• Adhesives, sealants and adhesive compositions: Used as a solvent in adhesives, sealants, and adhesive formulations.

• Pharmaceutical and chemical industry: Serves as an extraction solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Used as a solvent in chemical reactions. It is an intermediate in the production of acetic anhydride.

• Industrial and household cleaning: Due to its VOC-free and biodegradable properties, it is used in environmentally friendly industrial cleaners and degreasers.

• Cosmetics and personal care products: Acts as a fragrance and solvent in cosmetic products.

• Flavorings and fragrances: Used as a flavoring agent (FEMA 2676) and a fragrance component.

• Other applications: Artificial leather, polyurethane blowing agent, agrochemicals, electronics.

3. Production method:

• Industrial process: Methyl acetate is produced by by esterification of methanol with acetic acid in the presence of a strong acid catalyst (sulfuric acid). The product is purified by rectification. Methyl acetate is also produced by carbonylation of dimethyl ether.

4. Safety information:

• Hazard classification: Methyl acetate is classified as a hazardous substance with hazard statements: H225 (Flammable liquid and vapor), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H336 (May cause drowsiness and dizziness). Signal word: Dangerous. UN number: 1231 (Class 3, Packing Group II). NFPA 704: Health Hazard 1, Flammability 3, Instability 0.

• Health hazards: Vapors may cause respiratory irritation, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. Causes irritation to skin, eyes, and nose. If swallowed – abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting. Prolonged exposure may cause optic nerve atrophy.

• First aid measures: If in eyes – rinse with water, consult a doctor. On skin – rinse with water. If inhaled – fresh air. If swallowed, rinse mouth, give water, and seek medical attention.

• Fire and explosion hazard: Flammable liquid (flash point –15°C to –10°C). Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air (3.1–16% by volume). In case of fire use alcohol-resistant foam, powder or CO₂.

• Storage and stability: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Shelf life: 24–60 months in sealed original containers.

• Regulatory compliance: Methyl acetate (CAS#79-20-9, EC#201-185-2) is listed in the EINECS, TSCA, and DSL registries. Regulated by OSHA (PEL: 200 ppm) and NIOSH (TWA: 200 ppm, STEL: 250 ppm). For complete information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).