Methyl Acetate
Description: Methyl acetate, acetic acid methyl ester or methyl ethanoate, is a carboxylate ester. Methyl acetate is produced industrially via the carbonylation of methanol as a byproduct of the production of acetic acid. Methyl acetate also arises by esterification of acetic acid with methanol in the presence of strong acids such as sulfuric acid.
Application: A major use of methyl acetate is as a volatile low toxicity solvent in glues, paints, and nail polish removers.
ANALYSIS
METHYL ACETATE
| Characteristic | Limit | Unit | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | clear and free | Visual Inspection | |
| Methyl acetate | 89 | % (w/w) | DIN 51405 (GC) |
| Methanol | 10.2 – 11.05 | % (w/w) | DIN 51405 (GC) |
| Acetaldehyde | max. 1000 | ppm | DIN 51405 (GC) |
| Water | Max 0.95 | % (w/w) | DIN 51 777 / ASTM D 1364 (mod. Karl-Fischer-Method) |
| Platinum/Cobalt Colour (Hazen/APHA Colour) | Max. 15 | DIN ISO 6271/ ASTM D 1209 | |
| Density d204 | min. 0.902 – 0.915 | ISO 649/2 |
