What is ethyl acetate?

Ethyl acetate, with the chemical formula CH3COOCH2CH3, is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor. It is commonly referred to as the “sweet-smelling solvent” due to its pleasant aroma. Ethyl acetate is widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics.

It is no surprise that CH3COOCH2CH3 originated from a combination of ethanol and acetic acid through the Fischer esterification process, which was first introduced in 1895. This method remains the most commonly used commercial synthesis today. However, another method called the Tishchenko reaction is an alternative way to synthesize ethyl acetate. In this process, acetaldehyde undergoes disproportionation in the presence of a base, which produces both the alcohol and acid that then undergo esterification in situ.

CH3COOCH2CH3 is commonly used as a solvent in various industries, including coatings, adhesives, and printing inks. It is also used as a flavoring agent in food products such as candy, ice cream, and baked goods. Furthermore, it is used as a solvent in the production of pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics, vitamins, and steroids.

Chemical properties and use in reactions

• CAS: 141-78-6
• Formula: CH₃COOC₂H₅
• Molar Weight: 88.11 g/mol
• Boiling point: 77.1°C (1013 hPa)
• Melting point: -83°C
• Density: 0.902 g/cm³ (20°C)
• Flash point: -4°C

Chemically, ethyl acetate is an ester, which is formed by the reaction of ethanol and acetic acid. It is a highly versatile compound that can undergo various reactions such as esterification, saponification, and hydrolysis. Esterification is a process where an alcohol and a carboxylic acid react to form an ester and water. Ethyl acetate is commonly used as a solvent in esterification reactions to remove water and drive the reaction toward the formation of the desired product.

Saponification is a chemical reaction that involves the hydrolysis of an ester with a base to form a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. CH3COOCH2CH3 can also undergo saponification to form acetic acid and ethanol. This reaction is widely used in the soap and detergent industry to produce fatty acid soaps.

In hydrolysis reactions, CH3COOCH2CH3 is converted back to its starting materials, ethanol, and acetic acid, by the addition of water and a catalyst. This reaction is useful in the recovery and recycling of ethyl acetate from waste streams.

If you’re in the market for ethyl acetate, you can buy ethyl acetate CAS 141-78-6 from chemical suppliers or manufacturers. It is important to ensure that the CH3COOCH2CH3 purchased meets the required specifications and purity standards.

Where to buy high-quality ethyl acetate?

The purity of CH3COOCH2CH3 is determined by its boiling point and density. Ethyl acetate with a high purity level is required for use in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Besides, the purity of this compound affects the price of the product. The higher purity means the higher ethyl acetate price. If you follow this link, you will have the possibility to buy a high-quality product for a reasonable price ranging between €78.75 and €127.97 per 20 liters of the liquid. What are the other factors to consider when choosing a reliable chemical supplier?

• Legitimacy: a chemical supplier must be certified to distribute chemical compounds legally. The products it lists in its assortment must be numbered in accordance with the officially accepted CAS registry number.
• Delivery: some chemical compounds require special conditions during delivery. Make sure the supplier will be able to provide them and handle your order according to your expectations.

You may also pay attention to the customer support services but it’s up to you. The purity of the product, its price, the legitimacy of the supplier, and the delivery process are the main things to consider if you want to buy a high-quality product.