Ethyl Acetate (Ethyl Ethanoate; Acetic Acid Ethyl Ester)

   CAS No.: 141-78-6
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Ethyl Ethanoate; Acetic Acid Ethyl Ester
   Molecular Formula: C₄H₈O₂
   Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid
• Odour: Fruity / sweet (reminiscent of pear drops)
• Melting Point: Approx. −84 °C
• Boiling Point: Approx. 77 °C
• Density (20 °C): ~0.90–0.902 g/cm³
• Refractive Index (n²⁰ᴰ): ~1.371–1.373
• Vapour Pressure (20 °C): ~73–76 mmHg
• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~8.7–9 g/100 mL at 20 °C); miscible with many organic solvents
• Flash Point: Approx. −4 °C (closed cup)
• Explosive Limits: Approx. 2.0–11.5% by volume in air

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Purity: ≥ 99.5% (GC) for reagent or solvent-grade
• Appearance: Clear and free from visible particulates or haze
• Analytical Methods: Gas chromatography for assay; moisture and non-volatile residues controlled
• Storage Conditions: Use sealed, dry containers; protect from heat, ignition sources and contamination

Applications / Uses

• Widely used as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, inks, cleaning solutions and degreasing applications
• Used in laboratory settings for extraction, chromatography and sample preparation
• Employed as a drying agent or reaction medium in organic synthesis
• Suited for applications requiring a medium-polarity volatile solvent with favourable evaporation profile

Safety & Handling

• Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapour; vapour may form explosive mixtures with air
• Health Effects:
• Inhalation: May cause dizziness, nausea, respiratory irritation
• Skin Contact: May cause dryness, cracking or irritation upon repeated exposure
• Eye Contact: Causes serious irritation
• Precautions:
• Use in well-ventilated areas or with local exhaust ventilation
• Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces; store in grounded containers
• Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection and flame-resistant clothing
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities:
• Avoid strong oxidisers, strong acids/bases and reactive metals
• Vapour may travel to ignition sources and flash back
• First Aid Measures:
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; keep at rest and seek medical attention if symptoms persist
• Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash thoroughly with soap and water
• Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; get medical attention immediately

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed solvent-compatible containers rated for flammable liquids
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and ignition sources
• Container Closure: Keep tightly closed when not in use to prevent vapour release and moisture ingress
• Shelf Life: Stable for 12–24 months or longer under proper storage conditions; monitor for discolouration or contamination