Ethyl acetate

Ethyl acetate (CAS 141-78-6), or EtOAc, is a fast-evaporating ester solvent. E1504; FEMA 2414.

Where is Ethyl acetate used?

• Printing: primary solvent for nitrocellulose and polyurethane-based inks in flexible packaging and gravure printing
• Pharmaceuticals: API extraction, recrystallization and tablet coating
• Food and beverage: flavoring agent contributing a fruity note to confectionery, baked goods and alcoholic beverages
• Food processing: used in the decaffeination of tea and coffee.
• Cosmetics: fast-drying carrier solvent in nail lacquers and polish removers
• Vitamin E synthesis: employed as a solvent.
• Analytical chemistry: used as a standard material and solvent for analytical reagents and in chromatography analysis.
• Laboratory work: mixtures containing it are commonly used in column chromatography and extractions.
• Its evaporation rate affects print quality and line speed.

Good to know: Food and beverage uses require precise dosing at controlled levels for flavor consistency. Grade selection depends on end-use regulatory requirements, particularly food contact and pharmaceutical applications.

Formulation notes

• Attacks rubber and some types of plastic.
• Not compatible with nitrates, strong alkalis or strong acids.

Typical specification

• Water content: 0.0500% maximum.
• Autoignition temperature: 427°C.

Regulatory status

• Assigned UN number 1173 for transport.
• EU CLP harmonised index number 607-022-00-5.
• Classified under UN transport as Class 3 flammable liquid, packing group II.
• TLV: 400 ppm as TWA.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Sensitive to heat; may form explosive peroxides on prolonged storage.
• Explosive limits in air: 2.0–12.8 vol%.
• Store away from strong oxidants, strong bases and strong acids.
• Supplied in barrels, tins and IBCs.
• Bulk tankers are dedicated cleaned tankers with approximately 20 MT loads.

Frequently asked questions about Ethyl acetate

What are typical purity and impurity limits for commercial ethyl acetate?

Commercial / Industrial Grade is available with a minimum purity of 99.80%; acidity as acetic acid is 0.0100% maximum and benzene is not detected in the product.

Can ethyl acetate replace aromatic solvents in formulations?

It can substitute aromatic solvents such as toluene and is used for resin thinning.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.