Diethyl oxalate

Diethyl oxalate is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C6H10O4 and CAS number 95-92-1. It is an ester derivative of oxalic acid, featuring two ethyl groups attached to the oxalate backbone. With a molecular weight of 146.14 g/mol, this compound is classified as a moderately hazardous substance with acute toxicity and eye irritation properties, requiring careful handling in industrial applications.

Diethyl oxalate is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a characteristic ester-like odor. The compound has moderate solubility in water and is miscible with most organic solvents including alcohols, ethers, and aromatic hydrocarbons. Its ester functional groups make it reactive under basic or acidic hydrolysis conditions, and it exhibits typical ester chemical behavior in organic synthesis reactions.

Diethyl oxalate is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It serves as a building block for the production of various pharmaceutical compounds, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. The compound is also utilized in research applications for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds and as a reagent in organic chemistry laboratories for esterification and condensation reactions.

Diethyl oxalate requires careful handling due to its Acute Tox. 4 and Eye Irrit. 2 classifications. Essential safety measures include wearing chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin and eye contact. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to avoid inhalation. The GHS07 warning pictogram indicates moderate hazard levels requiring standard laboratory safety protocols.

Diethyl oxalate should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight. The storage area should be equipped with appropriate spill containment measures and maintained at stable temperatures. Keep away from strong bases and acids that could cause hydrolysis, and ensure containers are properly labeled with hazard information and handling precautions.

Diethyl oxalate exposure requires immediate first aid measures. In case of eye contact, flush immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention due to its eye irritant properties. For skin contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water. If ingested, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical care due to its acute toxicity classification. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.

Diethyl oxalate must be disposed of according to local, national, and EU waste regulations as hazardous chemical waste. The substance cannot be disposed of in regular drains or municipal waste systems due to its toxicity classification. Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper collection and treatment. Small laboratory quantities may be neutralized through controlled hydrolysis under professional supervision before disposal.

Diethyl oxalate is classified under ADR Class 6.1 (toxic substances) Packaging Group III for transportation. This classification requires specific packaging standards, labeling with appropriate hazard diamonds, and documentation including transport documents and safety data sheets. Vehicles must carry appropriate emergency equipment, and drivers need ADR certification for transporting toxic substances. Proper segregation from incompatible materials is mandatory during transport.

Diethyl oxalate is subject to standard EU chemical regulations under REACH and CLP frameworks but is not classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). Users must comply with standard registration, evaluation, and authorization requirements. The substance requires proper classification, labeling, and safety data sheet provision according to CLP regulation. Import/export may require additional documentation depending on destination country regulations.

Diethyl oxalate is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals. OYSI provides this compound to industrial customers, research institutions, and chemical manufacturers across Europe with proper documentation including certificates of analysis and safety data sheets. Contact OYSI directly for specific quantities, packaging options, and delivery arrangements to your location within the European market.