Methyl formate 99.5%min (CAS 107-31-3), also known as formic acid methyl ester, has the chemical formula HCOOCH₃ and is an organic ester compound. ‌

Physical Properties

At room temperature, it is a colorless, transparent, and volatile liquid with a pleasant aroma. Its melting point ranges from approximately -99.8°C to -100°C, boiling point between 31.5°C and 34°C, density around 0.974 g/cm³, flash point at -19°C (or -16°F), and refractive index approximately 1.343. ‌

Solubility

Miscible with ethanol, soluble in methanol, ethyl ether, acetone, and most other organic solvents; solubility in water is approximately 30.4 g/100 mL (20°C) or 300 g/L (20°C), and can be mixed with water in certain proportions. ‌

Chemical Properties

The molecule contains an aldehyde group, thus exhibiting reducing properties and can undergo reactions such as the silver mirror reaction and Fehling’s reagent test. As an ester, it can hydrolyze, readily decomposing into formic acid and methanol in humid air. It is chemically reactive and prone to addition and substitution reactions. ‌

Safety Characteristics

Highly flammable, its vapor can form explosive mixtures with air, with a wide explosion limit range (approximately 5.9% to 23% V/V). The vapor density is greater than air, allowing it to diffuse to distant ignition sources and ignite. It has moderate toxicity, and inhalation or skin contact may cause irritation or anesthesia, while high concentrations can lead to poisoning or even death. The maximum allowable concentration in workplaces is typically 100 ppm (250 mg/m³). ‌

Primary Uses

As a crucial organic synthesis intermediate, it is widely used in the fields of fragrances, solvents, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. Specific applications include: serving as a solvent for nitrocellulose and cellulose acetate; acting as a raw material for synthesizing drugs such as sulfamethoxypyridazine and dextromethorphan in the pharmaceutical industry; functioning as a smoke and bactericide for treating tobacco, dried fruits, and grains; and being utilized in industry for the production of chemical products like formic acid, formamide, and dimethylformamide. ‌

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Methyl formate CAS 107-31-3
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