Ethyl acetate

Ethyl acetate is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H8O2 and CAS number 141-78-6. It is an ester formed from ethanol and acetic acid, with a molecular weight of 88.11 g/mol. This colorless liquid is widely used as a solvent in various industrial applications due to its excellent dissolving properties and relatively low toxicity compared to other organic solvents.

Ethyl acetate is a colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of nail polish remover. It has excellent solvent properties and is moderately soluble in water but miscible with most organic solvents. The compound is highly volatile at room temperature and has a relatively low boiling point, making it useful for applications requiring rapid evaporation.

Ethyl acetate is primarily used as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, and printing inks due to its excellent dissolving properties. It serves as a key ingredient in nail polish removers and is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for drug extraction and purification processes. Additionally, it finds applications in the food industry as a flavoring agent and in laboratories as an extraction solvent.

Ethyl acetate requires careful handling due to its flammable nature (Flam. Liq. 2) and potential for eye irritation (Eye Irrit. 2). Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety goggles, gloves, and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent vapor accumulation. The substance can cause specific target organ toxicity (STOT SE 3), so exposure should be minimized and work areas should be well-ventilated.

Ethyl acetate must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames due to its flammable properties. Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent vapor escape and stored in accordance with local fire prevention regulations. The storage area should be equipped with appropriate fire suppression systems and incompatible materials should be kept separate.

In case of skin contact with ethyl acetate, immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. For eye contact, flush immediately with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention if irritation persists. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical advice if respiratory symptoms develop.

Ethyl acetate waste must be disposed of in accordance with local and national hazardous waste regulations. The substance should not be poured down drains or into the environment. Waste should be collected in appropriate containers and disposed of through licensed waste management companies specializing in flammable solvents. Recovery and recycling options should be considered where possible to minimize environmental impact.

Ethyl acetate is classified as ADR Class 3 (flammable liquids), Packing Group II for transportation purposes. It must be packaged in approved containers meeting UN specification requirements and transported by qualified carriers with appropriate hazardous goods training. Vehicles must carry proper placarding and documentation, and drivers must have valid ADR certification for transporting flammable liquids.

Ethyl acetate is subject to CLP regulation classification as Flam. Liq. 2, STOT SE 3, and Eye Irrit. 2, requiring appropriate labeling with GHS02 and GHS07 pictograms and the signal word 'Danger'. It falls under REACH registration requirements for manufacturers and importers. The substance is not classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), but users must comply with occupational exposure limits and safety data sheet requirements.

Ethyl acetate is available through OYSI, a European distributor of technical chemicals offering reliable supply across Europe. OYSI provides quality ethyl acetate with proper documentation including safety data sheets and certificates of analysis. As an established chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with European regulations and offers professional technical support to help customers with their specific application requirements.