Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is an organic ester compound with the molecular formula C4H8O3 and CAS number 547-64-8. This chemical substance has a molecular weight of 104.1 g/mol and belongs to the hydroxycarboxylic acid ester family. It is classified as a flammable liquid with potential eye irritation and specific target organ toxicity properties, requiring appropriate safety precautions during handling and use in industrial applications.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is a liquid ester at room temperature with the molecular formula C4H8O3 and a molecular weight of 104.1 g/mol. As an ester compound, it typically exhibits moderate volatility and solubility characteristics in organic solvents. The substance is classified as a Class 3 flammable liquid under ADR regulations, indicating it has a flash point above 18°C but below 60°C, requiring fire prevention measures during storage and handling.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate serves as an important intermediate in organic synthesis and chemical manufacturing processes. As a hydroxycarboxylic acid ester, it is commonly utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and specialty compounds. The substance finds applications in research laboratories, chemical synthesis operations, and industrial manufacturing where ester functionalities are required for further chemical transformations or as building blocks for more complex molecules.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate requires careful handling due to its flammable nature and potential for eye irritation. Personnel should wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing. Work areas must be well-ventilated and free from ignition sources. The substance carries GHS pictograms GHS02 and GHS07 with a 'Warning' signal word, indicating moderate hazard levels that require standard chemical safety protocols and proper training.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames due to its Class 3 flammable liquid classification. Containers should be tightly sealed and made of compatible materials to prevent contamination and vapor release. Storage areas should comply with local fire safety regulations and be equipped with appropriate fire suppression systems. Keep away from incompatible materials and ensure proper labeling with GHS pictograms.

Immediate action is required in case of contact with methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate, particularly for eye exposure due to its Eye Irritant 2 classification. For eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. In case of skin contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately due to potential STOT SE 3 effects. Remove contaminated clothing and seek medical advice if irritation persists.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate disposal must comply with local and European waste regulations due to its hazardous classification. The substance should not be discharged to sewers or the environment and requires treatment as hazardous chemical waste. Disposal should be carried out by licensed waste management companies capable of handling flammable liquids. Empty containers may still contain residues and should also be disposed of according to hazardous waste protocols, ensuring proper documentation and traceability.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is classified under ADR Class 3, Packing Group III for transportation, indicating it is a flammable liquid with lower hazard characteristics. Transport requires appropriate packaging, labeling with Class 3 hazard diamonds, and compliance with dangerous goods regulations. Vehicles must be properly equipped for flammable liquid transport, and drivers require ADR certification. Documentation including transport documents and safety data sheets must accompany shipments throughout the European transport network.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is subject to standard European chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification standards. The substance is not currently listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), but must comply with standard chemical safety protocols. Companies handling this substance must ensure proper risk assessments, safety data sheet provision, and workplace exposure controls according to European occupational health and safety directives and local implementation requirements.

Methyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is available through OYSI, a European distributor of technical chemicals serving industrial and research customers across Europe. OYSI provides quality chemical products with proper documentation including certificates of analysis and safety data sheets. As a specialized chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with European regulations and provides technical support for customers requiring this hydroxycarboxylic acid ester for their manufacturing or research applications throughout the European market.