Dimethyl carbonate

Dimethyl carbonate (CAS 616-38-6), commonly abbreviated as DMC, is a low-toxicity carbonylation reagent and solvent that has largely displaced phosgene and dimethyl sulfate in industrial synthesis.

Where is Dimethyl carbonate used?

• Pharmaceutical synthesis: safer methylation reagent for active ingredients and intermediates, reducing hazardous waste streams
• Pharmaceutical synthesis: used in the synthesis of ciprofloxacin instead of diethyl malonate and in the preparation of guaifenesin, a precursor to methocarbamol.
• Polycarbonate and polyurethane production: monomer or chain extender improving resin clarity and thermal performance
• Polyurethane foam: blowing agent.
• Lithium-ion battery electrolytes: solvent and electrolyte component with low viscosity and oxidative stability
• Rechargeable lithium batteries: non-aqueous electrolyte component.
• Food and beverage processing: approved microbial control agent for cold-sterilizing wine, fruit juices, and isotonic drinks without heat treatment
• Gasoline products: fuel oxygenate; can be blended with alcohols or MTBE.
• Coatings.
• It functions as a methylating agent, carbonylating agent, and green solvent in specialty chemical manufacturing.

Formulation notes

• Considered a substitute for solvents such as methyl ethyl ketone, tert-butyl acetate and parachlorobenzotrifluoride.
• Incompatible with oxidizing agents, strong acids and strong bases.

Regulatory status

• For transport assigned UN Class 3 (flammable liquids) and UN Packing Group II.
• Classified as highly flammable under the EU CLP Regulation with index number 607-013-00-6.
• Assigned UN number UN1161 for transport of dangerous goods.
• VOC exempt solvent per EPA.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Sensitive to air and moisture.
• Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
• Should be stored fire-proof, separated from strong oxidants, well closed, in an area without drains or sewer access.

Frequently asked questions about Dimethyl carbonate

What is the assay range of this dimethyl carbonate product?

The assay range of this dimethyl carbonate product is 99%.

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