Bio - Based / Green Solvents, High-Purity Solvents

Ethyl Acetate

Ethyl acetate (CAS: 141-78-6), also known as ethyl ethanoate, is a significant organic ester widely utilized for its versatile solvent properties and characteristic fruity aroma. Chemically represented by the formula CH₃COOCH₂CH₃, it is synthesized via the Fischer esterification of ethanol and acetic acid, typically in the presence of an acid catalyst. As a polar aprotic solvent, it provides an optimal balance between high solvency power and low toxicity, often serving as a safer alternative to aromatic or chlorinated hydrocarbons. Its relatively low boiling point and high volatility facilitate rapid evaporation, which is a critical requirement in industrial coating and printing processes. Beyond synthetic applications, ethyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits and fermentation byproducts. It is valued in laboratory settings for liquid-liquid extraction and chromatography. While classified as a highly flammable liquid, its high biodegradability and low bioaccumulation potential make it an environmentally preferred choice in modern chemical manufacturing.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High Solvency Power: Efficiently dissolves a broad spectrum of resins, polymers, and nitrocellulose, ensuring uniform formulation stability.
Rapid Evaporation Rate: Its high volatility allows for quick drying times in coatings, inks, and adhesives, significantly increasing industrial throughput.
Improved Safety Profile: Offers a lower systemic toxicity compared to traditional solvents like toluene or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK).
Biodegradability: Easily broken down by environmental microorganisms, resulting in low persistence and minimal ecological impact.
Economic Viability: Produced through well-established, high-yield synthetic routes, ensuring a consistent and cost-effective global supply for large-scale operations.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Specifications: Molar mass of 88.11 g/mol with a chemical formula of C₄H₈O₂.
Thermal Properties: Boiling point of 77.1°C (170.8°F) and a melting point of -83.6°C.
Flammability Data: Flash point of -4°C (24.8°F), necessitating its classification as a Class 3 flammable liquid (GHS).
Solubility Profile: Partially soluble in water (approx. 8% at 25°C); however, it is completely miscible with most organic solvents, including ethanol, acetone, and diethyl ether.
Physical Constants: Density of 0.902 g/cm³ at 20°C and a vapor pressure of approximately 93 mmHg at 20°C.